New results of nutrient utilization and response of maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids

Abstract

In a long-term experiment, the fertilizer response of 10 maize hybrids of different genotypes was studied on chernozem soil in a favourable year. The yields of the hybrids varied between 9500 and 18600 kg ha^-1 depending upon the fertilizer treatment and the genotype. The excellent nutrient and water management of the chernozem soil was proved by the high yield (9500 – 14600 kg ha^-1) obtained in the control. Even in such a good soil, the maize hybrids demanded fertilization and responded to it with a high yield increasement (3200 – 6500 kg ha^-1). From among the tested hybrids, 8 hybrids gave the highest yield in the N₁₂₀+PK treatment, while 2 hybrids reached their maximum yield in the N₁₅₀+PK fertilizer treatment (13500 – 18600 kg ha^-1 depending upon the hybrid). The water utilization of maize was improved as a result of the optimum fertilization. The water-use efficiency (WUE) was 30.35 kg mm^-1, while it increased to 42.22 kg mm^-1 at the optimum fertilizer dosage (N₁₂₀+PK). The natural nutrient utilization ability (yield in the control treatment) and the yield obtained at the optimum fertilizer dosage (N₁₂₀+PK and N₁₅₀+PK) were used in a special coordinate system.