Effect of Zinc Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under Irrigated Condition

Abstract

An experimental study investigated the effects of zinc fertilization on chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) growth, yield, and protein content through agronomic biofortification under irrigated conditions during the rabi seasons of 2024 Conducted at Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. The experiment employed a split-plot design with four main treatments (M1-M4) and three zinc treatments (S1-S3). The results showed that 75% RDF (M3) significantly enhanced growth attributes, including plant height (48.03 cm), dry matter production (2360.10 kg ha⁻¹), and leaf area index (0.80). Zinc treatment S3 - Chelated ZnSO4 as soil @ 20 kg ha-1 as basal+ ZnO as foliar application at 30 and 60 DAS produced the highest yields, with grain yield reaching 961.20 kg ha⁻¹ and stover yield at 2306.80 kg ha⁻¹. Enhanced nutrient absorption and effective biomass distribution played a significant role in boosting overall productivity and economic returns. The adoption of integrated zinc fertilization techniques not only improved chickpea yield but also contributed to superior nutritional quality. This approach highlights the potential of combining various zinc application methods to optimize growth, enhance nutrient content, and maximize profitability in chickpea cultivation.