Influence Of Plant Density And Nitrogen Fertilization On Late-Season Forage Maize

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the growth and yield performance of forage maize grown at four nitrogen (N) fertilizer level (0, 150, 300 and 450 kg/ha) and three planting densities (11, 22 and 44 plants/m2). Crop height, stem thickness and number of green leaves were decreased by increases in plant population density. However, leaf area index (LAI) and crop growth rate (CGR) were increased by increases in plant number. Thus, over 100% yield increases were obtained by sowing at 44-plants/m2 compare with 11-plant/ m2. Application of N fertilizer also significantly increased the measured plant attributes. Extra 33.5, 21.9 and 16.5kg of herbage were produced per unit of N used at 150, 300 and 450kg N/ha rates, respectively. The high dry matter yields obtained from increases in plant population were best sustained by ample supply of N to the growing crop. The implications of use of both factors as well as production of forage at this period of low farm activities within the rainy season are discussed.

Journal of Applied Chemistry and Agricultural Research Vol. 5 1998: pp. 54-61