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Research on Crops

Nano multi micronutrient priming with RDF improves germination and nutrient use efficiency in maize (Zea mays L.)



DOI: 10.31830/2348-7542.2026.ROC-1301    | Article Id: ROC-1301 | Page : 233-241
Citation :- Nano multi micronutrient priming with RDF improves germination and nutrient use efficiency in maize (Zea mays L.). Res. Crop. 27: 233-241
VIPUL BUNDAKE, VEENA KHILNANI AND ARCHANA KALE veena.k@somaiya.edu
Address : K J Somaiya College of Science and Commerce, Vidyavihar, Mumbai 400077, Maharashtra, India
Submitted Date : 7-03-2026
Accepted Date : 19-04-2026
Online Published:

Abstract

Among the cereals, maize is considered a highly adaptable crop that can grow across a wide range of climatic conditions. It meets the global demand for food, feed and fodder. Farmers follow conventional farming practices, which lead to less productivity and affect soil health. Supplementation of nano micronutrients with Recommended Dose of Fertilizers can be considered for balanced nutrient management. Therefore, a priming trial was conducted in the laboratory during the year 2024 at Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Limited, Chembur. The study consisted of 12 treatments, consisting of absolute control, control (only RDF), RDF integrated with nano multi micronutrient formulation with concentration ranging from 20 to 0.156 mg, commercial and salts of micronutrients. The results revealed that the germination parameters were higher in treatment 100% RDF with 0.312 mg nano multi micronutrient formulation. The growth attributes and chlorophyll content improved in treatment T9 along with the nutrient content suggesting healthier plant growth. The statistical analysis using ANOVA showed significant differences across treatments. Thus, the lower doses of formulation 0.312 mg with RDF may be considered most efficient when compared to control and conventional fertilizers. Nano micronutrients with RDF are a better option over only nano micronutrients fertilizer. 

Keywords

Germination rate maize nano multi micronutrient maize nutrient content

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