Effects of soil treatment with iron, manganese and zinc on growth and micronutrient uptake of sunflower plants grown in high-pH soil

The purpose of this work was to study the effects of adding different concentrations of iron (Fe), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn) in irrigation water to high-pH sandy soil on the growth and micronutrient uptake of sunflower plants (Helianthus annus L., cv. Giza 1). The experiment was carried out in Mitscherlish pots under greenhouse conditions, Low Fe, Mn and Zn concentrations were found to have a positive effect on the micronutrient contents of the plant organs. The number of leaves and the leaf area were increased by addition of Fe, Mn and Zn. Root size was increased by addition of Fe and Mn. Stem and root lengths were increased by Mn only. It could be concluded that continuous addition of Fe, Mn and Zn in irrigation water to high-pH sandy soil deficient in these nutrients, where root growth was contained within a limited volume (in pots), led to increases in growth and micronutrient uptake (Fe, Mn and Zn). Further studies are needed to determine whether similar effects will be found under field conditions.