Seed companies have produced hybrid maize varieties to ensure maximum performance in many conditions

Optimum nutrition is essential at all stages of the growing season to ensure that the genetic potential of the crop is not limited

At the key early stages of crop development adverse climatic or soil conditions and small root volume often mean that nutrient supply from the soil is less than adequate

Maize is a fast growing crop producing a large biomass

Adequate macro-nutrient fertilisation is essential for optimum yield and quality

Unfortunately pre-plant fertiliser or even post-emergence localised soil applications may not always be sufficiently available at critical times of the season

Key macronutrients essential for maize are Phosphorus and Zinc. Other micronutrients are also required.

Phosphorus is involved with...

It is important for...

Stunted plants

Purple or red coloration on stems and leaves

Dark green leaves

Dark yellow chlorotic and necrotic leaf tips

Foliar phosphorus is an effective supplement to soil applied treatments

Zinc is without doubt the most widely deficient nutrient for maize production

Inadequate zinc nutrition affects early crop development and can have a serious affect upon yield potential and crop quality

Zinc is important for -

Pale yellow stripes parallel to the leaf midrib starting at the base of the youngest leaves

Reduced internodes and stunted plants

Red colour when plant severely affected

Partially filled cobs at harvest

Reduced yield

Cold wet weather conditions

Soils receiving high phosphorus applications (common for maize)

Soils rich in phosphorus

High pH soils

Organic soils

Manganese, copper and boron deficiency can affect maize if soil levels are low

Yield and quality will be reduced unless appropriate treatments are made

Foliar sprays at the 4-8 leaf stage will be effective in overcoming deficiencies

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