The Impact of Selenium Fertilization on the Quality Characteristics of Spring Wheat Grain

Abstract

Selenium is a micronutrient that is important for the proper functioning of the body. The research presented in this paper investigated the impact of various methods of selenium fertilization at various stages of plant growth on its content in grain and the quality properties of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Selenium fertilization did not affect the grain yield; however, it increased the selenium content in the grain. The research results showed that the accumulation of Se depends not only on the dose of the fertilizer but also on the stage of plant growth when the element is introduced. The most effective method of fertilization proved to be seed treatment and soil application combined with the foliar application at the tillering and stem elongation stages (G + S + F1-2), as well as at the stem elongation stage alone (G + S + F2). In terms of quality characteristics, the impact of selenium fertilization was observed only in the case of the falling number and the total protein content; all the parameters allowed for the grain to be classified as suitable for bread-making. Selenium fertilization can be considered as a safe way of increasing the Se content in spring wheat, which may contribute to an increase in the technological quality of the grain and its nutritional value.