Assaying the efficiency of sulfate, chelate and zinc nanoparticle fertilizers in green bean grown in alkaline soil

Abstract

The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is one of the most important grain legumes for human diets worldwide due to its nutritional attributes. The application of large amounts of fertilizers is a current problem in agriculture because it could be harmful to the soil and reduce micronutrient availability including zinc (Zn). Zn is an essential element for crop production and quality and also in human diets. Zn deficiency in plants causes biomass reduction, interveinal chlorosis, necrotic spots, browning, small leaves, and growth retardation, and in humans increases the incidence of several diseases. Zn deficiency is common in alkaline soils. Therefore, this study aims to assess the efficiency of ZnSO4, a Zn chelate (DTPA-Zn), and Zn nanoparticles (NfsOZn) as fertilizers in P. vulgaris plants grown in an alkaline soil. To that end, P. vulgaris plants were supplied with the three fertilizers and grown in an experimental greenhouse. Parameters related biomass, NR activity, photosynthetic pigments, and Zn accumulation were analyzed. The three Zn fertilizers, especially DTPA-Zn and NfsOZn, were effective to increase the analyzed parameters. DTPA-Zn was the Zn source that most improved the bean yield and the ZnUpE, whereas NfsOZn produced a greater increase in NR activity, photosynthetic pigments, and ZnUtE. Besides, DTPA-Zn and NfsOZn considerably increased the Zn content in beans. Overall, the application of 50 ppm NfsOZn is the optimum Zn fertilizer to ensure a good yield, quality, and Zn content in P. vulgaris grown in an alkaline soil.