NPK Deficiency Symptoms in Maize   and their Integrated Nutrient Management

Brijesh Kumar^*, Tarence Thomas, Vikram Bharati and Sunil Kumar

Abstract

During Green revolution, Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, promoted to use more chemicals so as to increase the crop production and feed the growing population by giving the slogan “More Chemicals, More Production”, as a result soil became problematic due to extensive use of chemicals and intensive cropping system, leading to toxicity  in crops started occurring nation-wide and imbalance of nutrients in soil, which has adverse effect on soil health and also on crop yields.  Soil macronutrients are essential to maintain ecosystems and high crop yields.  As a result, soil became in detritus condition. There is need to improve nutrient supply system in terms of Integrated Nutrient Management involving the use of chemical fertilizers in conjunction with organic manures through biological process. Maize is highly sensitive to nitrogen deficiency, ‘V’-shaped yellowing(chlorosis) at the tip of lower leaves. Deficiency symptoms of P appear on the older leaves can develop reddish-brown in colour or purple colour develops on the margins of lower leaf edges. Potassium is highly mobile in plants and its deficiency symptoms, first appear on older leaves and tips burn and margin scorching or burnt. Maize is also known as “Queen of cereals” and kind of fodder. Maize (Zea mays L.) or Corn is one of the important cereal crops next only to wheat and rice in the world. Maize is high genetic yield potential than other cereals. Adoption of Integrated plant nutrient supply system in maize cultivation can improve soil health, maintain ecosystem balance and ensure sustainable high yields through balanced fertilization practices.