Optimisation of nitrogen split application in maize (Zea mays L.) for enhanced growth, fodder yield and quality
Abstract
Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important fodder crop valued for its high biomass yield, nutritive quality, and adaptability to diverse agro-climatic conditions, yet fodder availability in India remains inadequate. Inefficient nitrogen management further limits fodder yield and quality due to poor nitrogen use efficiency. Therefore, optimizing nitrogen levels and split application strategies is essential to enhance fodder maize productivity under semi-arid conditions. A field experiment was conducted during the Kharif seasons of 2024 and 2025 at the Research Farm of Guru Kashi University, Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda, Punjab, to evaluate the effect of nitrogen levels and split application schedules on fodder maize. The experiment comprised four nitrogen levels (60, 90, 120, and 150 kg N/ha) and three nitrogen application schedules: single basal application, two equal splits (50% basal + 50% at 30 DAS), and three equal splits (basal, 30 DAS, and 45 DAS), arranged in a Factorial Randomised Block Design with three replications. Pooled analysis of two years indicated that nitrogen levels and split applications significantly influenced growth, fodder yield, quality, and economics. Application of 150 kg N/ha recorded the highest plant height (198.0 cm at harvest), leaf area index (4.35 at harvest), dry matter accumulation (74.3 g/plant at harvest), green fodder yield (370 q/ha), dry fodder yield (81.4 q/ha), crude protein content (8.6%), gross return (₹74,000/ha), net return (₹52,500/ha), and benefit: cost ratio (3.44). Among nitrogen schedules, three equal split applications (1/3 basal + 1/3 at 30 DAS + 1/3 at 45 DAS) produced the highest plant height (190.8 cm), leaf area index (4.25), dry matter accumulation (72.2 g/plant), green fodder yield (348 q/ha), dry fodder yield (76.5 q/ha), crude protein content (8.05%), net return (₹49,470 ha⁻¹), and benefit: cost ratio (3.29). The study concluded that applying 150 kg N/ha in three equal splits is the most effective and profitable nitrogen management strategy for fodder maize under semi-arid Punjab conditions.