Effect of boron application and nitrogen management on yield of maize (Zea mays L.)

A two-year field study was conducted at Mansarovar Global University, Sehore, M.P., during the Kharif seasons of 2023 and 2024 to evaluate the effect of Integrated Nitrogen Management (INM) combined with Boron application on maize (Zea mays L.) growth, yield, and grain quality. Fifteen treatments, comprising different combinations of nitrogen sources urea, Farmyard Manure (FYM), Vermicompost (VC), and Azotobacter with Boron at 2, 3, and 4 kg/ha, were arranged in a Randomized Block Design with three replications. Growth, cob characteristics, grain attributes, stover, and grain yield were recorded. The results revealed significant variation among treatments. Maximum cob girth (17.2 cm), rows per cob (16.15), test weight (235.15 g), stover yield (139.34 q/ha), and grain yield (69.5 q/ha) were observed under 100% N through urea with Boron @ 3 kg/ha. Partial substitution of urea with FYM, VC, or Azotobacter improved growth and yield moderately. Boron at 3 kg/ha consistently enhanced reproductive and yield parameters across treatments. The study demonstrates that integrated nitrogen management with Boron @ 3 kg/ha, either through full urea application or partial organic/biofertilizer substitution, is an effective strategy for maximizing maize productivity, improving grain quality, and promoting sustainable nutrient management.