Effect of integrated nutrient management on yield and nutrient balance in maize (Zea mays)

A field study was conducted during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 1997 and 1998 on sandy-loam soil at the Main Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on yield and nutrient balance in maize (Zea mays L.). The study comprised 7 treatments, consisting of recommended dose of inorqanic fertilizer, combination of 50 and 75% recommended dose with FYM and vermicompost and only FYM and vermicompost. Combined application of 50 or 75% recommended dose of fertilizer with 12 tonnes/ha FYM or 2.7 tonnes/ha vermicompost caused higher productivity of maize compared with the application of either only inorganic fertilizer or organic sources. Integrated nutrient management resulted in better uptake and less loss of nutrients from the soil.