Growth and yield response of maize (Zea mays L.) to different rates of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers in southern Nigeria

Abstract

The effect of twelve different rates of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers on growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L.) in southern Nigeria was evaluated between June and October, 2007. The results of the study showed that application of 120kgN/ha + 0kgP/ha and 60kgN/ha + 40kgP/ha significantly increased the growth of maize than other treatments. The application rate of 120kgN/ha +40kgP/ha significantly (P =0.05) enhanced grain yield. This study further confirms the role of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers in increasing growth and grain yield in maize production. From the result of the study, application rate of 120kgN/ha + 40kgP/ha may be recommended for increasing maize yield particularly in the study area. However, application of 60kgN/ha + 40kgP/ha can also bring about increase in the yield of maize. This will greatly benefit farmers in area where supply of nitrogen fertilizer is low and cases where farmers cannot afford the cost of high fertilizer input.