Phosphorus-Zinc Interaction and Iron and Manganese Uptake in the Growth and Nutrition of Phalaenopsis (Orchidaceae)

ABSTRACT: Visual symptoms of Zn deficiency, induced by excessive P applications, have been observed in commercial orchid nurseries. The supply of other metallic micronutrients, such as Fe and Mn, may also be inadequate in the plant due to high application rates of P. The aim of this study was to investigate this interaction in the nutrition of Phalaenopsis plants. Experimental treatments consisted of three P rates (0.0, 0.5, and 1.0 g L-1) and three Zn rates (0.00, 0.35, and 0.70 g L-1), as well as fertilization with other basic nutrients, and a control treatment with the fertilizer B&G Orchid...