Boosting Zinc Levels in Wheat Enhances Grain Quality and Yield
The researchers studied how adding zinc to wheat crops affects the plant's growth and the quality of the grain produced. They found that adding higher levels of zinc increased the zinc concentration in different parts of the wheat plant, leading to higher grain and straw yields. The grain and straw also had higher levels of zinc, nitrogen, and potassium with zinc application. Interestingly, the phosphorus content decreased with more zinc. Additionally, the quality of the grain, including protein and carbohydrate levels, improved with higher zinc levels. Overall, adding 20 kg of zinc per hectare along with regular fertilization enhanced wheat production and maintained quality.