Studying the distribution of Zn in the soils allows investigating their mobility and bioavailability. In this research, 10 calcareous soil samples were selected, and sewage sludge-amended (1% w/w) and -unamended (control) soils were incubated for 1 month. Before planting, fractions of Zn were determined, three seeds of wheat were planted in each pot and after 8 weeks, they were harvested. Results showed that all Zn fractions were increased by sewage sludge addition. Results of pot experiment indicated a significant correlation between Zn concentration in wheat with exchangeable (r=0.92**) and Zn associated with Fe and Mn oxides (r=0.76*) in control soils. In addition, significant correlation coefficient was found between Zn associated with Fe and Mn oxides and Zn uptake index (r=0.86**). Moreover, wheat responses were significantly correlated with Zn exchangeable (r=0.71*- 0.84**) in amended soils. Yield was correlated with Zn associated with carbonates and Zn associated with Fe and Mn 0.69 and 0.75, respectively. Zn uptake index was correlated with Zn associated carbonates (r=0.64*). Therefore, the exchangeable and Zn associated with Fe and Mn oxides in control soils and the exchangeable and Zn associated carbonates and Zn associated with Fe and Mn oxides in amended soils could be used as available fractions of wheat.

Keywords: Zinc; Fractionation; Sewage sludge; Wheat

Full-Text [PDF 242 kb]   (2328 Downloads)