Nutrient Management Research Database
General Information
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Summary/Abstract from Original Source
A direct impact of increasing solution Zn concentration on P uptake in potato was clearlyobserved in these studies. While Zn content increasedin all plant parts as solution Zn increased,P concentration in both top leaves and middleleaves and stems declined with a concomitantincrease of P in roots. This suggests a P/Zn complex formation in roots preventing movement ofP to the tops of plants under high Zn. However, contrary to expectations, no direct impact ofincreased solution P on Zn uptake or distribution in potato was observed. Instead, increasedsolution P resulted in accumulation of Mn in potato roots which may beindirectly impacted byZn in potato. Therefore, although high P levels inpotato did not directly reduce Zn content orcause Zn deficiency, they may reduce the activityof Zn by interacting with other micronutrientssuch as Mn.
Research Highlights
Design and Methods
Potatoes are often grown in high pH soils that can have limited phosphorous (P) availability. P fertilization, however, can decrease zinc (Zn) availability.
This hydroponic experiment was performed to elucidate the relationship between P and Zn.
Potatoes were grown either with constant P levels and varying Zn levels or vice versa.
Plant growth and nutrient cocnentrations were measured.
Results
Moderate levels of Zn and P resulted in the healthiest plants. While low levels on Zn stunted plant growth and high levels resulted in yellowing, mottling, curling, and leaf burn. Low P resulted in stunted growth as well, and a slight decrease in growth was observed at high levels of P along with symptoms similar to those observed at high levels of Zn.
Plant P concentrations in the top and middle leaves were decreased with more Zn was added.
No clear relationship was observed between plant Zn levels and P availability.
Other Considerations
The concentrations of nutrients used in this study do not easily translate to field application rates.