Optimizing Zinc Nutrition for Improved Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) Growth and Flowering

Abstract

Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) is a highly valued ornamental and aromatic plant known for its elegant, fragrant white flowers, widely cultivated for use in the floriculture, landscaping and perfume industries. Its commercial success is closely linked to floral quality, yield and the uniformity of blooming, which are strongly influenced by nutrient management strategies. Among micronutrients, zinc plays an indispensable role in various physiological and metabolic processes, including enzyme activation, auxin synthesis, chlorophyll production, protein synthesis and membrane stability. Zinc deficiency, particularly in alkaline and calcareous soils, often leads to stunted growth, poor flower formation, reduced chlorophyll content and overall yield loss, making zinc nutrition a critical factor in tuberose cultivation. Precision zinc fertilization, a component of precision agriculture, offers a promising solution by enabling site-specific, need-based application of zinc using modern tools such as soil testing, GIS mapping, GPS-guided applicators and foliar diagnostics. This approach enhances zinc use efficiency, reduces environmental losses and supports sustainable floriculture practices. The review synthesizes findings from experimental studies evaluating the effects of various zinc sources (e.g., zinc sulfate, zinc-EDTA and nano-zinc) and application methods (soil, foliar and fertigation) on the growth, flowering and tuber development of tuberose. It further examines the challenges associated with adoption, such as farmer awareness, economic feasibility and interaction with other agronomic inputs. The paper concludes by identifying future research priorities, including the need for region-specific zinc recommendations, integration with other micronutrients and biostimulants and the development of smart delivery systems. This comprehensive review aims to provide a foundation for optimizing zinc nutrition in tuberose to enhance productivity and quality sustainably.