Liming of acid sulphate soils of Córdoba and its effect on development of three maize cultivars in a greenhouse

Abstract

The research was carried out under greenhouse conditions of the Universidad de Cordoba, with the purpose of evaluating the effect of the lime level on the development of three corn genotypes (Zea mays) and on the chemical properties of an acid sulphate soil (ass) of the river Sinu valley. A complete randomized experimental design was used with factorial arrangement, where factor A corresponded the commercial corn genotypes (Corpoica H-108, ICA V-109, SV-1127) and B to the applied lime levels (0, 3, 6 and 9t/ha). The results indicated that when passing from 6 to 9 tons of lime per hectare, SV 1127 registered important increases of the root biomass per plant (5g) and of the plant height (25cm), also the leaf area was significantly superior in these two treatments (more than 450 cm2), compared to others. These responses were not so evident for the other genotypes that would present a more stable behavior in this soil type. The results observed allowed to conclude that liming was efficient to reduce the acidity levels and to improve the relationship Ca2+ and Mg2+, the interchangeable bases and the soil acidity. Likewise, the results allowed to conclude that SV-1127 would present an enhanced adaptation when the soil acidity is neutralized, mean while Corpoica H 108, would be a more stable genotype when cultivated in this soil type, limed or not.