The effect of mineral fertilization (N, P and K) on rainfed maize

The aim of this experiment was to study the effects of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers on the growth and yield of rainfed maize in Upper Casamance (Kolda, Senegal). The experimental set-up is a randomized complete block design with 4 replications. The fertilization factor was studied in 19 treatments and a blank control. Parameters studied included plant height, ear diameter and length. The parameters measured showed that nitrogen is a limiting element in maize. Plant growth and ear characteristics are better with 150kg/ha of N. For phosphorus, 20kg/ha is sufficient to ensure its contribution to good ear development. The contribution of potassium to better corn growth and development is obtained with the 30kg/ha dose. These results, to be completed with grain yield, will be very useful when updating fertilizer formulas for maize.