Foliar zinc sulfate application effects on biomass and forage traits of annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) in zinc-deficient soils

Deficiencies of essential micronutrients in forage crops can result in reduced growth, diminished nutrient content, and reduced in forage quality. This can, in turn, affect the nutritional requirements of livestock and the overall productivity of the agricultural sector. The experiment was initiated during the 2023-24 production season and employed four zinc sulfate doses (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 % w/v) and five varieties of annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam. cv. İlkadım, cv. Master, cv. Baqueno, cv. Caramba, cv. Trinova), with four replications. SPAD measurements were obtained following the foliar application of zinc sulfate, and plant height (cm), flag leaf length (cm), flag leaf width (cm), leaf number per plant, and leaf area (cm2) parameters were collected through the single mowing of annual ryegrass. After the fresh forage yield (t ha-1) measurements, ADF (%), NDF (%), crude protein ratio (%), crude protein yield (kg da-1) and relative feed value were measured and calculated. As a result of the data obtained, it was determined that foliar zinc sulfate applications can make positive changes in yield and quality, while at the same time increasing the amount of fiber. While İlkadım had the highest average value with 1.48 t da-1 in terms of hay yield, the highest value among zinc sulfate doses was obtained from 0.6 % with 1.47 t da-1. High values were obtained at 0.4 % and 0.6 % doses. Among the varieties, İlkadım and Baqueno had higher yield and quality characteristics. However, it is understood that the responses to foliar zinc sulfate applications occurred in different percentages among the others.