Agronomic and Physiological Efficiency of Hybrid Yellow Corn (Zea mays L) Varieties to Different Fertilization Rates

Corn (Zea mays L.) is a globally significant cereal crop, widely utilized for food, feed, and industrial purposes. In the Philippines, it ranks second to rice in agricultural significance. This vital crop plays a crucial role in sustaining the livelihoods of Filipino farmers. This study aimed to assess the productivity and efficiency of hybrid corn varieties under varying fertilization rates. The experimental design employed a Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Factor A consisted of five fertilizer treatments: control, 120N-90P2O5-60K2O Kg/ha, 60N-90P2O5-60K2O Kg/ha, 180N-90P2O5-60K2O Kg/ha, and 240N- 90P2O5-60K2O Kg/ha. Factor B comprises four hybrid varieties: B118G, P3530THR, Dekalb8899S, and NK6505. The study demonstrated significant effects on agronomic and physiological parameters of corn with varying fertilization rates. Statistically, all hybrid varieties exhibited positive responses to the application of N-P-K. Among the hybrids, NK6505 exhibited notable physiological efficiency and yield. Fertilization rates generally demonstrated a positive influence on plant growth, leading to enhanced yield attributes. The combination of 120N-90P₂O₅-60K₂O Kg/ha, combined with NK6505, yielded the highest net return and return on investment (ROI) of 265.20%. Thus, it is recommended that farmers adopt the combination of NK6505 with 120N-90P₂O₅-60K₂O Kg/ha fertilization rate to enhance the economic profitability of hybrid corn production.