The quality and quantity response of maize (Zea mays L.) yield to planting date and fertilizers management

Abstract

Cereal grains have the main role in human world food because of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, vitamins, and minerals which affected by genetic and environmental conditions. Field experiment was conducted for two years using a split-plot arrangement in a randomized complete block design to study the effect of sowing date and organic and inorganic nutrients on maize yield and quality of oil in Shahirar, Tehran. The treatment consists of two sowing dates viz., on time date (July 15) and delayed sowing (August 15) in main plot and six fertilizer treatments viz., No fertilizer, Urea (200 kg N ha−1), farmyard manure (FYM) (200 kg N ha−1), vermicompost (200 kg N ha−1), Urea (50% N) + FYM (50% N) and Urea (50% N) + vermicompost (50% N). The outcome of field experiments revealed that on time planting recorded maximum oleic acid (18.68%) and while 200 kg N ha−1 through vermicompost recorded maximum oleic acid (17.38%) which was 12% higher than control. The highest seed yield was achieved in urea+vermicompost treatment (5570 kg ha−1). While highest oil content and linolenic acid was with FYM (200 kg N ha−1). The interaction effect showed that urea applied to maize sown on time had the highest oil yield. Linoleic and linolenic acid was less in maize which was sown late. It is concluded from study that application of urea alone or urea with vermicompost to maize sown in time can be recommended.