Enhancing rapeseed germination by nano zinc oxide and zinc sulfate particles under interrupted irrigation

The manuscript investigates the effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles and zinc sulfate (applied singly or in combination) on seed germination traits of four spring rapeseed cultivars, including three open-pollinated varieties (Delgan, Zafar, and RGS003) and the hybrid variety Hayola 50, under varying drought stress conditions imposed on the mother plants. The study employs a split-plot design over two years, assessing several germination and vigor indices. The results showed that application of zinc fertilizer in the form of a combination of foliar application of zinc sulfate and zinc oxide nanoparticles (at a concentration of 5 ppm) to the mother plant at three growth stages, namely germination, flowering, and pod formation, generally improves germination performance, especially under drought stress.