Effect of potassium management on crop growth, yield and economics of spring maize (Zea mays) in western Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during the spring season of 20152016 on Typic Ustochrept soil of western Indo-Gangetic Plains to evaluate the effect of potassium management on crop growth, yield and economics of spring maize in western Uttar Pradesh. Twelve treatments comprising 100% NP, 100% NPK, 100% NP + 125% K, 100% NP + 150% K, 125% NPK, 150% NPK, 100% NP + Crop residue, 100% NP + FYM, 100% NP + SPM, SSNM, SSNMK and SSNM+K were evaluated in a randomized block design with these replications. The data on growth, yield and its contributing traits recorded and expressed on plot area basis (15 m2), were maximum with the application of 150% NPK. The experimental results revealed that growth attributes (plant height, number of func- tional leaves, dry matter accumulation and leaf area index), yield attributing traits viz., number of cobs, cob length, number of grains, cob weight, grain weight, test weight, shelling (%), grain, stover and biological yield and uptake of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in maize differ significantly among different treatments and were maximum with the application of 150% NPK. The response of SSNM was statistically similar with 150% NPK in most of the growth and yield parameters.