Phosphorus-micronutrient interactions in teff (Eragrostis tef)

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.