Effect of Nano Zinc Oxide on Kernel Filling Period in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus .L) Cultivars
Mohammad Sedghi  
University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, faculty of agricultural sciences, department of agronomy and plant breeding, Ardabil, Iran; mosedghi2003@yahoo.com
 
In Order to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of nano zinc oxide spraying on the length, effective period and kernel filling rate of sunflower cultivars, a factorial experiment conducted based on complete randomized block design with three replications at the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili. Treatments were sunflower cultivars (Aline 191, Aline 122 and Farrokh) and concentrations of nano zinc oxide including 0, 0.5 and 1 g lit-1. Results showed that interaction of nano zinc oxide and cultivars was significant on kernel filling rate, effective period of kernel filling, maximum kernel weight and duration of kernel filling. Spraying of 0.5 g lit-1 nano zinc oxide increased kernel filling rate and maximum kernel weight in Aline 191 and Aline 122. In Farrokh cultivar among different concentrations of nano zinc oxide were not significant difference on kernel filling rate, effective period and duration.

Key words: Nano zinc oxide, sunflower, kernel filling rate.