The effect of rate and time of nitrogen application on growth, yield attributes, yield and economics of summer maize (Zea mays L.)

Background: Nitrogen management in maize production system is one of the main concerns since it is the most important and primary nutrient for growth and development of the crop. Optimum rate and time of N application can enhance yield and nutrient use efficiencies. The current study was aimed to evaluate optimum rate and time of nitrogen application in summer maize (Zea mays L.). Methods: A field experiment was conducted at College Farm, N. M. College of Agriculture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari to study the “Effect of rate and time of nitrogen application on growth and yield of summer maize (Zea mays L.)”. The treatments of the study included three rates (60, 90 and 120 kg N ha-1) of nitrogen and three timings (two equal splits at sowing and 30 DAS, three equal splits at sowing, 30 and 45 DAS and four equal splits at sowing, 30, 45 and 60 DAS). Result: The results revealed significantly higher growth and yield parameters with 120 kg N ha-1. The maximum grain yield (3463 kg ha-1) was obtained under 120 kg N ha-1. The split application of nitrogen in four equal splits at sowing, 30, 45 and 60 DAS also had significant effect on growth and yield attributes of summer maize. Significantly highest grain yield (3331 kg ha-1) was obtained under four splits. The interaction between rate and time of nitrogen application had significant effect. The treatment combination involving 120 kg N ha-1 with four splits at sowing, 30, 45 and 60 DAS obtained significantly higher grain weight per cob (55.48 g) and grain yield (4084 kg ha-1). The treatment combination also accrued the maximum net realization (₹ 66680 ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.51).