Impact of micronutrient foliar application on growth parameters of Urdbean (Vigna mungo L. Hepper)

Abstract

Urdbean (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) is a significant warm-season legume crop in South Asia, particularly in India, known for its high nutritional value. This study explores the influence of iron and zinc foliar applications on the growth parameters of Urdbean, focusing on parameters like Leaf Area Index (LAI), Leaf Area Ratio (LAR), Leaf Area Duration (LAD), Absolute Growth Rate (AGR), Relative Growth Rate (RGR), and Net Assimilation Rate (NAR). The experiment, conducted during the kharif season of 2023, employed a randomized block design with genotypes AKU 10 01 and ten combination treatments, including various stages of micronutrient foliar application. Results revealed nuanced effects on growth parameters, with significant variations observed at different growth stages. However, post-vegetative stage applications of zinc and iron did not yield statistically significant differences in growth parameters. The findings emphasize the complexity of nutrient management and its implications for crop growth, providing valuable insights for sustainable agricultural practices in Urdbean cultivation.