Correlation of seedling macro-nutrient content with cold tolerance related traits in maize (Zea mays L.).

摘要

Field experiments were conducted in Jammu and Kashmir, India, during the 2003 kharif season, to determine the relationship of seedling nutrient status with cold tolerance in 44 maize genotypes, composed of cold-tolerant and cold-susceptible lines. Significantly high positive correlations were found between juvenile plant height and seedling dry weight with seedling nitrogen and phosphorus content (%). Genotypes with greater root mass were accompanied by high seedling phosphorus. Potassium percentage of seedlings was not related to any of the primary cold tolerance attributes under study. Rank summation index calculated involving these cold tolerance traits recorded significant correlation with seedling nitrogen content. Lines showing high seedling nitrogen or phosphorus are likely to exhibit tolerance to low early spring temperatures at higher hills..