Application of Excess Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium Fertilizers Leads to Lowering of Grain Iron Content in High-Yielding Tropical Rice

Influences of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) fertilizer doses were assessed on iron (Fe) accumulation in leaves and grains of three high-yielding rice cultivars differing in grain Fe concentration. Effects of these treatments were also measured on grain yield, leaf area, and plant biomass of the cultivars. Nitrogen, P, and K applications improved plant biomass and grain yield of all cultivars. Among the nutrients, N was most effective in increasing leaf Fe concentration, followed by P and K in all three rice cultivars. Sharbati accumulated the greatest concentration of leaf Fe followed by IR-64 and Lalat. However, greater doses of these nutrients adversely affected grain yield and Fe content of leaf and grain. Application of excess N, P, and K fertilizers may, thus, sometimes results in lowering of grain Fe content in rice. Judicious application of the elements is recommended for prevention of Fe-induced malnutrition.