Integration of organic sources with inorganic phosphorus increases hybrid maize performance and grain quality

Abstract

AbstractIntegrative use of organic and inorganic fertilizers not only fulfills the nutritional needs of crops, but also ensures sustainable production and environmental protection. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the influence of phosphorous application from integrated organic and inorganic fertilizers on maize. In this study poultry manure and press mud were integrated with single superphosphate (SSP) as the phosphorus source. Maximum amounts of time to 50% tasseling (47.75 and 47.63 days), 50% silking (53.07 and 53. 11 days) and maturity (106.47 and 106.49 days) were recorded where the recommended dose of phosphorus was applied from only inorganic sources. For application of phosphorus from integrated sources, the treatment containing 25% poultry manure + 75% SSP provided the highest number of grains per cob (459.60 and 460.70), 100-grain weight (26.85 and 27.82), stover yield (9.61 and 10.41 t ha-1), grain yield (7.14 and 7.82 t ha-1) and grain protein content (8.59 and 8.63%) during both years. However, all treatments had non-significant effects on grain oil and starch content. Moreover, in given years, the integrated use of 75% poultry manure and 25% SSP resulted in a maximum benefit-cost ratio of 2.97 and 3.11 USD, respectively, as compared to integrated use of 25% poultry manure and 75% SSP, which produced a benefit-cost ratio of 2.58 and 2.81 USD. In conclusion, integration of organic sources with inorganic phosphorus substantially improves the yield and economics of hybrid maize.