Absorption of applied zinc(Zn65) as affected by nitrogen and amendments in normal and saline-sodic zinc

The absorption of applied zinc (Zn65) by corn plants in saline sodic-soils of different pHs was studied. The effect of NH4NO3 and gypsum in this respect was also investigated. Nitrogen application with Zn increased the concentration of Zn in the plants irrespective of the soil character. In saline-sodic soils, the application of gypsum was more effective than nitrogen. Gypsum application followed by leaching with water increased the concentration of Zn as compared to gypsum application without leaching, indicating that the presence of sodium in exchangeable or soluble forms decreases the absorption of Zn by plants. (author)