Effects of Iron, Zinc and Manganese and Method of Their Application on Phonology, Yield and Grain Quality of Sweet Corn

In order to evaluate effects of iron, zinc and manganese, and the methods of applying them on yield and yield components of sweet corn, an experiment was performed as factorial based on randomized complete block design with four replications at the Research Farm of Urmia University, during 2009-2010. Experimental factors were micronutrient fertilizers with four levels (control, iron, zinc and manganese) and micronutrient applying method with two levels (foliar and soil application). Results indicated that Interaction between experimental factors on plant height, ear diameter, grain size, 1000-grain weight, biological yield and protein percentage was significant. In most of these traits foliar application of Fe and Zn showed better results than foliar application of Mn. Also, by influenced of micronutrients applying method, foliar application was caused 13.25%, 5.38% and 24.84% increasing in numbers of grain per ear, grain yield and soluble sugar percentage. In additional soluble sugar percentage was influenced significantly by application of micronutrient elements. Based on the results, foliar application of micronutrient elements showed better results than soil application of them.