Phosphorus, zinc and organic matter interaction in relation to uptake, tissue concentration and absorption rate of phosphorus in wheat

Abstract

The effect of P, Zn and organic matter on growth, P content in tops and roots and rate of absorption of P per unit fresh weight of roots per day was studied in a pot experiment on wheat. Phosphorus and organic matter application significantly increased and Zn application decreased the available P. A balanced P: Zn ratio in organic matter treated plots gave better P availability. Phosphorus concentration and uptake in tops and roots increased with P and organic matter application. Zinc application also increased the uptake of P but significantly decreased the P concentration in tops. Phosphorus flux increased with P application and reduced with Zn application. The antagonistic interaction between Zn and P was reduced in presence of organic matter.