Nutrient Uptake by Broad Bean as Affected by Mineral and Bio Nitrogen Fertilization Under Saline Conditions

Abstract

A pot experiment was conducted under greenhouse conditions using broad been plant (Vicia faba L.). Irrigation water salinity was achieved by diluted sea water to reach salinity levels of 2.43, 4.33 and 6.10 dSm^-1. Nitrogen was added as ammonium nitrate at the rates of 60, 45, 30 mg N kg^-1 soil corresponding to 100, 75 and 50 % from recommended dos which is 60 kg^-1 N Fed^-1. Bio fertilization was achieved through the addition of rhizobium which was thoroughly mixed with surface soil. Plant samples collection was done along three different growth stages i.e. 45, 75 and 140 days from sowing representing flowering, pod formation and maturity stages, respectively. Results show that, at flowering stage the highest values of plant dry matter content; N uptake; protein content; and uptake of Fe, Mn, and Zn were observed under the treatment of 60 mg N kg^-1 soil+ Rhizobium. While at pod formation stage the highest values were obtained under the treatment of 45 mg N kg^-1 soil + Rhizobium. At maturity stage the highest value of dry matter content was observed under the treatment of 60 mg N kg^-1 soil+ Rhizobium, while N uptake; protein content; and uptake of Fe, Mn, and Zn; as well as seeds yield were obtained under the treatment of 45 mg N kg^-1 soil + Rhizobium.