Influence of Organic and Inorganic Sources of Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Fiji

Background: Maize is used both as green cobs and for grains and it is in increasing demand throughout Fiji. Maize productivity is low and could be attributed primarily to climate, low soil fertility and inappropriate agronomic practices. Methods: The experiment was laid out on maize variety Nirala in a randomized block design with three replications and six treatments comprising NPK, poultry manure and its combinations. Parameters on plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant, leaf length, leaf width, stem girth, grain yield were recorded and collected data was analyzed statistically applying the analysis of variance technique. Result: Results reveled that among the all combinations, 100% NPK (300 kg/ha) along with PM @ 10 t ha-1 recorded higher plant height (204.00 cm), number of leaves per plant (12.87), maximum production efficiency (20.93 Kg/day/ha) and significantly superior (2511 kg/ha) grain yield and was most effective for improving growth and yield of maize.