Response of wheat genotypes to zinc fertilization for improving productivity and quality

Field experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of zinc (Zn) fertilization on yield potentiality and quality of promising wheat varieties during winter seasons of 2013–14 and 2014–15 at the research farm of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. Among genotypes, HD 2967 genotype proved as best in realizing the highest grain yield (4.89 Mg ha^?1), net returns and benefit–cost ratio besides increased protein (13.4%) and wet gluten (29.4%) content in grain. Highest grain Zn concentration and recovery efficiency (RE) recorded in HD 2851 and HD 2687, respectively. HD 2932 registered lowest grain hardiness index (GHI) followed by PBW 343, indicating their better bread-making quality. With respect to Zn fertilization, application of 1.25 kg Zn Zn–ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (Zn–EDTA) + 0.5% foliar spray at maximum tillering and booting stages resulted in the highest yields, grain Zn concentration and RE followed by 2.5 kg Zn (ZnSO₄·7H₂O) + 0.5% foliar spray at both stages. These treatments are also superior most with respect to grain quality parameters such as protein, wet gluten and starch content. From profitability viewpoint, 2.5 kg Zn (ZnSO₄·7H₂O) + 0.5% two foliar sprays were most remunerative with maximum net returns and benefit–cost ratio.