1、From application methods to rate recommendations: Integrated strategies

This study provides a unified framework for recommending zinc fertilization in maize by clarifying when localized application offers yield advantages and defining soil Zn thresholds for rate adjustment.

2、Soil application of zinc fertilizer could achieve high yield and high

In this present study, a field experiment with different Zn fertilizer application rates was conducted in three consecutive years (2010–2012) on a typical calcareous soil on the North China Plain (NCP).

3、Soil Application of Zinc Fertilizer Increases Maize Yield by Enhancing

Thus, soil application of Zn fertilizer successfully increased grain yield of maize by improving pollen viability, kernel number, and kernel weight of inferior grains (apical section), also contributing to grain Zn biofortification.

4、Optimal Zinc Fertilizer Application During the Maize Seedling Stage

To determine the effects of zinc (Zn) fertilizer on maize yield and water-use efficiency (WUE) under different soil water conditions, a field experiment was conducted using cultivar Zhengdan 958.

Influence of Different Rates and Frequencies of Zn Application to Maize

A long-term field experiment was conducted during 2012 to 2018 at Anand Agricultural University, Anand (Gujarat), India, to find out the right Zn fertilizer dose and its frequency of application in maize–wheat cropping systems grown on typic haplustepts soil.

Soil application of zinc fertilizer could achieve high yield and high

However, it is not clear whether soil application of Zn fertilizer could realize high yield and GZC. The current study aimed to examine how soil Zn application affects yield and GZC and what is the optimal DTPA-Zn for high yield and GZC requirement.

Soil Application of Zinc Fertilizer Increases Maize Yield by Enhancing

Improving the development of inferior grains is important for increasing maize yield under high-density conditions. However, the effect of micronutrients, especially zinc (Zn), on the...

Maize grain yield and grain zinc concentration response to zinc

As a result, potential innovations likely to achieve sufficient maize grain zinc content were highlighted including the use of nano-particulate zinc oxide, foliar zinc application, timing of zinc application, precision fertilization and zinc micro-dosing.

Maize grain yield and grain zinc concentration response to zinc

This meta-analysis synthesized the current evidence on maize response to zinc fertilization from different studies and highlighted the potential innovations to improve the crop response to zinc application.

Effect of Zinc Application on Maize Productivity and Eukaryotic

As a fertilizer, Zn is an effective strategy for increasing yield and Zn concentration in maize grains. However, Zn as a heavy metal may accumulate in the soil thus, its environmental impact in agroecosystems requires analysis.

Maize is one of the world’s most important food crops, providing abundant carbohydrates, proteins, and high nutritional value. Zinc, an essential trace element for human health, plays a critical role in growth, immune function, and reproductive systems. Thus, rational application of zinc fertilizers is vital for improving maize yield and quality. The following are key recommendations for zinc fertilization in maize fields:

1. Soil Testing

Before applying zinc fertilizers, conduct soil tests to determine zinc content and distribution. This helps determine appropriate dosage and application methods. Common testing methods include atomic absorption spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).

2. Select Suitable Zinc Fertilizers

Choose zinc fertilizer types based on soil test results. Common options include zinc sulfate, zinc oxide, zinc nitrate, and zinc chloride. Zinc sulfate and zinc oxide are widely used due to their high solubility and ease of application.

3. Timing of Application

Zinc fertilization timing varies by crop growth stage. For maize, apply fertilizers before sowing, during the seedling stage, jointing stage, and tasseling stage. Adjust timing based on local climate, soil conditions, and crop needs.

4. Application Methods

Use different methods for various zinc fertilizers:

• Zinc sulfate: Dissolve in water and spray directly onto maize plants.
• Zinc oxide: Mix with soil and incorporate via deep tillage. Avoid direct contact with foliage to prevent leaf burn.

5. Dosage

Apply 1–2 kg per mu (0.1–0.2 kg/ha) based on soil tests and crop requirements. Excessive use may stunt growth or induce diseases.

6. Application Modes

Besides surface spreading, consider:

• Foliar spraying: Dissolve zinc fertilizers in water and spray onto plants.
• Organic fertilizer mixing: Combine zinc fertilizers with organic matter and incorporate deeply. These methods enhance root uptake and zinc utilization efficiency.

7. Monitoring Effects

Regularly test soil available zinc and plant zinc concentrations to evaluate fertilization outcomes and adjust strategies as needed.

8. Precautions

• Avoid mixing with acidic fertilizers, which reduce zinc effectiveness.
• Prevent direct foliar application to avoid leaf damage.
• Do not overapply, as excess zinc harms crop health.

Rational zinc fertilization significantly boosts maize productivity and quality. By conducting soil tests, selecting appropriate fertilizers, optimizing timing and methods, controlling dosage, and monitoring effects, farmers can maximize zinc utilization and support healthy maize development.