Effect of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilization on phytic acid concentration and vigor of oat seed (var. Saia) in Mexico [Efecto de la fertilización nitrogenada y fosforada en el contenido de ácido fítico y vigor de la semilla de avena de la variedad Saia en México]

Abstract

Oats cereal is a worldwide significant crop. It is grown in restrictive climates and in rainy regions of temperate areas. Cultivation of oats produces high forage yields and grain quality, which gives it a wide variety of uses as animal feed and human food. However, the physiological quality of oat seeds in Mexico faces problems, which impact both their import and export. Phytic acid concentration in the oat seed plays a very important role since it affects seed viability, its germination capacity and potential seedling vigor. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of chemical fertilization on the phytic acid concentration and vigor of oat seeds. The study was conducted at the Technological Institute of Roque (ITR) and the National Research Institute for Forestry, Agricultural and Livestock in Celaya, Guanajuato in 2004 and 2005. Effects of two factors were evaluated at four levels each. Factor A was nitrogen fertilization (60, 100, 140, and 180 kg/ha). Factor B was phosphorus fertiliza ion (40, 80, 120 and 160 kg/ha). Variables measured were phytic acid, protein and amino acid concentrations, and vigor of oat seeds. Results indicated a cubic effect from nitrogen fertilization, and a quadratic effect from phosphorus fertilization, on the phytic acid concentration of oat seeds. The same trends were observed in seed vigor. However, there were no statistical differences in protein concentration for any of the study factors. Amino acid and phytic acid concentrations were not significantly related