Growth performance of 'Mentik Wangi' rice (Oryza sativa L.) with Zn nano application on drought stress

Abstract

Mentik wangi rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a variety originating from Magelang Regency, Central Java. Mentik wangi has the advantages of fragrant smell, fluffier texture, and high market demand. The weakness of mentik wangi rice is long life (4 months), long stems, easy collapse. The problem of long-lived rice if the planting period enters the dry season and the availability of water is limited, it will have an impact on productivity. This study aims to overcome problems by applying Zn nano to drought stress. Zn is one of plant microelements that functions as auxin biosynthesis, cell elongation, stem segments, and enzyme activator. Enzyme activators function in slowing the increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) during drought stress, maintaining physiological resistance and rice growth. The study was conducted with a factorial completely randomized design in a screen house. The results showed Zn nano maintains yield and plant growth under stress. The most optimal dose. However, there is a tendency at the 3.75 ppm Zn nano dose to get low yields, it is suspected that if an excessive dose of Zn causes poisoning in plants. The application of Zn nano is optimal when applied under stressed conditions compared to normal conditions.