Growth and yield performance of maize (Zea mays L.) as influenced by nitrogen and phosphorus in the trans-ecological zone of Delta State, Nigeria

The growth and yield performance of maize as influenced by nitrogen and phosphorus in the trans-ecological zone in the field was conducted at Agbor, 5.25(0)N and 6.19(0)E in Delta State. Soils at the experimental site were analysed for their physical and chemical properties to determine their nutrient status. Maize variety ACR-89 DMRESR-W was used. The design was a 4 x 4 factorial randomised complete block experiment replicated three times. Four levels of both nitrogen and phosphorus were examined: 0, 20, 40 and 60 kg/ha. The parameters measured were seedling emergence at 7 days after planting, leaf area and stem girth at 3, 6 and 9 weeks after planting, maize cob weight and grain yield. Results showed that combined application of 60 kgN/ha + 60 kgP/ha significantly increased leaf area at 6 and 9 weeks after planting. Mean stem girth was higher with application of 60 kgN/ha + 60kgP/ha relative to the control and other combinations levels. Application of 40 kgN/ha + 40 kgP/ha significantly increased maize grain and cob weight yield. Combined application of 40 kgN/ha + 40 kgP/ha is recommended for optimum growth and yield of maize in the study area.