Effects of integrated nutrient management (INM) practices on physiological and yield traits of maize (Zea mays L.) hybrid NK 7328

Maize is a major global cereal crop with high yield potential and diverse uses in food, feed, and industry. However, its intensive nutrient demand necessitates efficient fertilizer management for sustained productivity. Integrated nutrient management (INM), combining organic and inorganic fertilizers, enhances soil fertility, crop physiology, and yield. Optimizing INM strategies is essential to improve maize productivity while maintaining soil health. A field study was conducted in the Experimental farm, Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu, India during July 2024 to study the effects of integrated nutrient management on the physiological and yield traits of hybrid maize (Zea mays L.). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) comprised of nine treatments and replicated thrice. The treatments included different combinations of recommended fertilizer doses (RDF) with organic amendments such as FYM, poultry manure, vermicompost, EM solution applied through soil application and fish amino acid applied through foliar spray. From the results, it was revealed that (T5 - 100% RDF + FYM @ 12.5 t/ha + Fish amino acid @ 0.5 % Foliar spray at 30 DAS) was significantly recorded maximum growth parameters like plant height (196.6 cm), Leaf area index (6.7), Dry matter production (9065.6 kg/ha) and yield parameters Cob length (24.9 cm), No. of grains per cob (511.3), grain yield (7642 kg/ha).