Phosphorus-micronutrient interactions in teff (Eragrostis tef)

Authors

  • Tekalign Mamo Forage Legume Agronomy Group, ILCA, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
  • J.W. Parsons Department of Soil Science, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB9 2UE, Scotland

Keywords:

Teff, Eragrostic tef, Phosphorus· Micronutrients, Antagonisms

Abstract

Studies were conducted to investigate the antagonistic effects of P on the micronutrient status of the teff (Eragrostis tel) plant. Plant growth was not increased by P fertilization of two experimental soils containing high native P, but in a sand culture study significant growth response to applied P occurred. In both studies, however, plant micronutrient content was in many instances reduced by increased P application. On the other hand, extractable micronutrient content of two incubated soils was not affected by P application. Possible mechanisms of the induced antagonistic effect are discussed in light of existing literature.

Issue

Section

Research Papers