Root growth impairment has sometimes been attributed to zinc deficiency. A greenhouse experiment was conducted in Botucatu, SP, Brazil, in 1997/98, using 2.5 L pots. Zinc redistribution within the plant and the effect of zinc deficiency on root growth were studied in corn (Zea mays) plants grown in nutrient solution containing from 0.0 to 2.0 µmol L-1 of Zn. Half of the pots also received foliar application of Zn. The experiment was terminated 40 days after plant emergence. Dry matter yield and root length, diameter and surface were not affected by Zn application. There was an increase in root Zn content due to translocation of the nutrient applied to leaves. The translocation rate was higher when Zn concentration in corn leaves was within the sufficient range. Corn roots were tolerant to Zn deficiency, showing normal growth even when Zn concentration was as low as 7 mg kg-1.
foliar fertilization; micronutrient; root