Effects of Different Synthetic and Organic Fertilizer Applications on the Micromorphological Characteristics of Maize (Zea mays L.) Leaves and Some Silage Quality Traits

Abstract

Background: Fertilization is an important cultural practice used to support plant growth and development. Fertilizers provide plants with the nutrients they need, which help them to photosynthesize, grow and develop. Fertilizers are divided into two groups: organic and synthetic. Organic fertilizers are derived from organic materials such as manure, compost and bat guano. Synthetic fertilizers are produced using chemical methods. Methods: This study was conducted to determine the effects of different synthetic and organic fertilizer applications on silage quality and some micromorphological characteristics in maize plants. The study was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The RX-9292 silage maize variety was used as the plant material. Six different organic and synthetic fertilizer types with different contents (Control, Synthetic Fertilizer-1 (20 kg N, 8 kg P and 8 kg K per decare), Synthetic Fertilizer-2 (20 kg N, 10 kg P and 10 kg K per decare), Poultry Manure, Cattle Manure and Vermicompost). were used in the study. The ADF (%) (Acid Detergent Insoluble Fiber), NDF (%) (Neutral Detergent Insoluble Fiber), ADL (%) (Acid Detergent Insoluble Lignin), SDMR (%); (Silage Dry Matter Content) properties of the silage obtained were then examined. Additionally, the thickness of the cuticle, number and size of stoma-epidermis cells and stoma index of the leaves were measured and observed using Scanning Electron Microscopy. Result: As a result of the measurements and observations, it was found that both synthetic and organic fertilizer applications increased the yield and quality values in silage maize, but synthetic fertilizer applications were more advantageous than organic fertilizers. However, considering the environmental damage of synthetic fertilizers and the importance of organic fertilizer applications for animal health, organic fertilization is thought to be more appropriate.