Corn (maize) is a high-input crop that requires a balanced supply of nutrients at every stage of its growth. Nutrient deficiencies in corn not only reduce yield but also weaken the plant's resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental stress. Early identification and proper management are key to ensuring a healthy and productive crop.

🔹Symptoms: 👉Yellowing starts from the older/lower leaves and moves upwards 👉Leaves show a V-shaped yellowing pattern from the tip downward 👉Stunted growth and poor ear development 🔹Management: 👉Apply Urea or Ammonium Nitrate as top dressing 👉Use split applications for better nitrogen use efficiency 👉Ensure adequate soil moisture for better absorption

🔹Symptoms: 👉Purplish or reddish discoloration on older leaves 👉Poor root development and delayed maturity 👉Weak stems and poor grain filling 🔹Management: 👉Use DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate) or Single Super Phosphate (SSP) 👉Apply basal dose during sowing for early root growth

🔹Symptoms: 👉Leaf margins turn yellow or brown, leading to scorching 👉Poor resistance to drought and lodging 👉Weak stalks and smaller ears 🔹Management: 👉Apply Muriate of Potash (MOP) as basal or side dressing 👉Avoid over-irrigation to prevent leaching of potassium

🔹Symptoms: 👉Interveinal chlorosis (yellowing between veins) in younger leaves 👉Shortened internodes and small leaves 👉Poor cob development 🔹Management: 👉Apply Zinc Sulfate @ 25–30 kg/ha as a basal dose 👉Foliar sprays of 0.5% Zinc Sulfate for quick correction

👉Conduct soil testing before planting 👉Use balanced NPK fertilizers along with micronutrients 👉Follow proper fertilizer timing and application methods 👉Monitor plants regularly during early growth and reproductive stages 👉Use organic manures to improve soil health and nutrient retention 👉1 kg/acre of NPK 19:19:19 along 500 grams micronutrients per acre.

💡Efficient nutrient management is the backbone of high corn productivity. By identifying early deficiency symptoms and responding with appropriate fertilizer strategies, farmers can secure better yields, healthier crops, and higher profitability.

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