Corn is able to form a significant yield of grain and by-products, the incorporation of which into the soil can improve the balance of organic matter - one of the most important indicators of its fertility.
The productivity of the crop largely depends on the level of nutrition of critical elements in the phase of 4-6 leaves, when it is necessary to ensure active growth of vegetative mass of plants and the beginning of the generative phase. The cold, protracted spring of 2022 with a lack of moisture in the vast majority of regions has exacerbated the manifestations of phosphorus and zinc deficiency – the most important nutrients in this period.
The role of zinc in the nutrition of corn is multifaceted, but the most crucial functions at the early stages of development are:
- stimulating the synthesis of growth hormones - auxins;
- release of spare nutrients from seeds;
- influence on the formation of elements of cob productivity.
To prevent or eliminate zinc deficiency in the phase of 4-6 leaves, we recommend foliar fertilization of corn with ECOLINE Zinc (Chelate) special fertilizer at a dose of 1.0 l / ha (can be applied simultaneously with post-emergence herbicides).
If phosphorus and zinc deficiency are noticeable at the same time, it is recommended to use ECOLINE Phosphite (K-Zn) 1.5–2.0 l / ha. This special composition containing phosphorus in the form of phosphite is designed to eliminate the deficiency of phosphorus, potassium and zinc and enhance the growth of the root system.
In the case of a strong manifestation of phosphorus deficiency, in particular during the cold season, or weak development of the root system, we recommend to use a combination of fertilizers for foliar nutrition ECOLINE Phosphite (K) 1.0-1.5 l / ha and ECOLINE Zinc (Chelate) 0.5–1.0 l / ha. This approach will not only help the plant to overcome phosphorus and zinc starvation and stimulate the development of the secondary root system, but also significantly strengthen the immune system of corn plants and their resistance to fungal infections. It should be noted that, according to independent studies, phosphites in the recommended doses do not lead to inhibition of vitality, but, on the contrary, contributed to the better development of agronomically valuable groups of microorganisms in the soil.
