Zinc Fertilizer Source in Rice Production
Applied Research
Andrew Sayger
CEA - Agriculture
University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Research & Extension
Clarendon
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) deficiency is the most common micronutrient deficiency in rice production. Zn deficiency can range from yield reductions of 10% to 100% yield loss in severe cases when not corrected. In soils with high pH (pH>6.0) and low soil test zinc (<2.5ppm) it is recommended to apply 10 pounds of actual Zn per acre. Producers in Monroe County do not have local access to a Zn product that can apply 10 pounds of Zn per acre economically. Producers have only been able to apply products containing 1-2 pounds/acre of Zn. This has resulted in hidden hunger reducing rice yields. Three fields were located in the county that required 10 pounds/acre of Zn according to University of Arkansas soil test reports. Two treatments per field were established containing three Zn fertilizer applications with a check. Soil samples were taken prior to plot establishment in the spring and again after harvest in the fall. Tissue samples were taken at midseason to determine Zn tissue concentrations. Results from tissue test and soil test were averaged together to aid in simplicity of conveying results. Midseason plant sample results revealed that all plots had sufficient Zn levels including the checks. However, Zinc Sulfate was the only application showing higher plant levels than the check indicating it is more water soluble than MicroMergeZn. MicroMergeZn plot tissue samples were no different than the check plot levels. Soil test results revealed higher soil test Zn levels across all plots in the fall compared to spring. The 2 pounds Zn per acre MicroMergeZn treatment only averaged a .75 ppm increase which did not improve soil test category results. The 10 pounds Zn per acre Zinc Sulfate and MicroMergeZn treatments resulted in two soil test report categories higher such as improving from low to optimum. Zinc Sulfate did so at a much more reasonable cost at $30/acre compared to $90/acre for the MicroMergeZn application. Awareness was brought to the county of the importance of correct Zn sources. Producers have since sourced Zinc Sulfate as a more economical choice providing the crop with needed nutrients adding yield potential.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Andrew Sayger, Matt Fryer
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Sayger, A. CEA - Agriculture, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture , Arkansas, 72029
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Fryer, M. Instructor- Soil Science, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Arkansas, 72204