Effect of Seed Soaking and Foliar Application with Zinc Sulfate on Rice Seedling Strength, Yield and Its Components

Extremely declining zinc is so prevalent in soils particularly in Egypt and affects the production of rice. Field trials were performed at El-Senblawin, Dakahlia Governorate 2017 and 2018 seasons to evaluate the influences of different methods of Zn application on rice growth and yield characteristics. The experiment included Zn seed soaking and foliar applications. Soaking treatments, 0, 50, 100, 200 mg/L ZnSO4, and recommend mineral & Zinc nanoparticle treatments as foliar, 0, 30, 60 mg/L, and zinc sulphate. Split plot design were used in three replications. Results showed significant in two seasons at seed soaking and foliar treats. The seed soaking in 200 mg/L ZnSO4 increased plant height, tillers/hill, grains/panicle, weight of grains/panicle, 1000 kernel weight, and total grain yield (t/fed) of rice among the different of Zn application in two seasons. Use 60 mg/L as foliar is significant seedling development. Also, demonstrated by a positive association between the Zn concentration in germinating seeds and the combined roots and shooting of dry weight after foliar Zn. Four foliar Zn treatments (ZnSO4) were applied to rice plants at different stages of growth. The interaction between seed soaking 200 and foliar 60 mg/L ZnSO4 boost agronomic traits. To conclude, Zn in rice seed can be effectively raised by foliar and soaking. Seeds with high Zn provide both agronomic and nutritional benefits. Since wide spread occurrence of Zn deficiency in human populations is associated with low dietary Zn intake, special attention should be paid to foliar treatments in rice.