Potassium fertilization influences growth, physiology and nutrients uptake of maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

A pot experiment in wire house was conducted to investigate the effect of potassium fertilization on physiology, growth and nutrient uptake of maize. Surface soil samples were collected and analyzed for soil physico-chemical properties and NPK contents. Pots were saturated with water and filled with soil (5 kg soil/pot). Potassium fertilizer was applied in five different treatments as T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 with 0, 70, 100, 130, and 160 kg ha-1, respectively. Nitrogen and phosphorus were applied @ 250 and 100 kg ha-1 (recommended), respectively, in all the pots, including control. Experiment was planned in completely randomized design (CRD), with three repeats. Plant growth, nutrient uptake and concentration in roots and shoots, net photosynthesis, rate of transpiration, stomatal conductance and substomatal CO2 concentration were significantly improved with increasing K application rate. It also increased water use efficiency (WUE) and decreased root: shoot dry weight ratio of maize. Treatment T3 resulted in maximum growth, physiological characteristics and nutrient uptake. It was concluded that K fertilization improves physiological characteristics resulting in enhanced WUE and nutrient uptake eventually producing more yield. It is recommended to apply K fertilization in drought stress conditions.