Effect of Seed Priming and Foliar Application with Micronutrients on Quality of Forage Corn (Zea mays)

This study investigated the effects of seed priming and foliar spraying with micronutrients (zinc and iron, in both nano- and chemical forms) on the quality of forage corn (Zea mays L.) under field and greenhouse conditions over two years. Treatments included nano-iron chelate, nano-zinc, chemical iron chelate, chemical zinc fertilizer, distilled water, and control. Nano-iron increased leaf chlorophyll concentration, plant height, dry biomass, crude protein, and soluble carbohydrates. Both nano- and chemical zinc improved plant growth and quality, with superior results from nano-zinc. Nano-fertilizers enhanced phosphorus concentration, biomass, and nutrient efficiency compared to chemical fertilizers. Results suggest that nano-fertilizers can improve forage corn productivity and quality while reducing fertilizer use.