Effect of humic acid organic fertilizer on growth and yield of sticky maize (Zea mays) in Central Vietnam

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of application of humic acid organic fertilizer (Hop Tri Super Humic - 95.0%) on the growth and yield of sticky maize plants. Field experiment was conducted in spring summer season of 2019 in Central Vietnam. Four different doses of the fertilizer (0, 2, 4. 6 kg/ha) were applied to the soil. Growing time, plant height, ear length, number of leaves per plant, ear leaf area, ear size, yield and its components were investigated. The results indicated that application of Hop Tri Super Humic fertilizer had a positive effect on all the mentioned parameters across the fertilizer levels. The highest yield of 6.95 t/ha was obtained under 4 kg humic acid organic fertilizer treatment. Based on this outcome, use of Hop Tri Super Humic organic fertilizer @ 4 kg/ha was found an optimal dose as a nutrient supplement for obtaining higher growth and yield of sticky maize grown in Central Vietnam.