Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
Scientific Member, Soil and Water Research Institute, Department of Soil Chemistry, Fertility and Plant Nutrition
Abstract
In order to increase crop production and its profits per unit area and to control bio-environment and water resources pollutions, producers and farmers need to have information about nutrients accumulation in various plant parts at different growth stages. Proper fertilizer application time is one of the effective factors in increasing fertilizer use efficiency. Meanwhile, determination of mineral nutrients distribution at various growth stages is very useful for proper management and timing of fertilizer application. Therefore, to evaluate nutrient (N, P, K) distribution in various plant parts and determine proper application time and the best management of fertilizer in corn (Zea Mays L.), this study was conducted in a randomized complete block design with 3 replications. Phosphorus and potassium fertilizers were applied at planting time according to soil test (180 kg ha-1 triple super phosphate and 160 kg ha-1 potassium sulfate). Nitrogen fertilizer (400 kg ha-1 urea) was applied at planting time and as split at two other growth stages (V4 and V7). Plant sampling was performed randomly at different growth stages (3-, 5-, 7-, and 10-leaves stages, tasselling, silking, and maturity stages: V3, V5, V7, V10, VT, R1, and R6). Fresh weight, dry matter, and N, P, K accumulation rate of plant parts (leaves, stems, flowers, ear, and seeds) were determined. According to the results of the experiment, as the growing seasons progressed, plant dry weight significantly increased. Maximum amount of N, P, and K uptake occurred at early growth stages and mostly at 10-leaves stage. At maturity stage, the accumulation of N and P in shoots and leaves decreased while K accumulation in the shoots increased. The main parts of N and P accumulated in seeds, while K accumulated in shoots.
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