Impact of Zinc and Iron Application on Yield and Quality of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) application on the yield and quality of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) during the Rabi season of 2024-25 at Mewar University, Rajasthan, India. Micronutrient deficiencies, particularly of Zn and Fe, are significant constraints in agriculture, limiting crop productivity and human nutrition. Optimizing Zn and Fe levels in chickpeas, a vital pulse crop, can enhance yield and nutritional quality, contributing to food security and reducing malnutrition. The experiment utilized a randomized block design with nine treatments, incorporating soil and foliar applications of ZnSO₄ and FeSO₄. The treatment combining ZnSO₄ at 25 kg/ha (soil) and 0.5% FeSO₄ (foliar) significantly improved growth parameters, yield, protein content, and economic returns compared to the control. These findings highlight the potential of Zn and Fe application as a sustainable strategy for enhancing chickpea production and nutritional outcomes.