EFFECT OF NITROGEN APPLICATION THROUGH DIFFERENT COMBINATIONS OF UREA AND FARM YARD MANURE ON THE PERFORMANCE OF SPRING MAIZE (Zea Mays L.)

EFFECT OF NITROGEN APPLICATION THROUGH DIFFERENT
COMBINATIONS OF UREA AND FARM YARD MANURE ON

THE PERFORMANCE OF SPRING MAIZE (Zea mays L.)
By
ATTA ULLAH MOHSIN

2005-ag-10
A THESIS SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE
REQUIREMENT FOR THE DEGREE OF
MASTER OF SCIENCE (HONS)
IN
AGRONOMY
FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE
UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE,
FAISALABAD
2007
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I do not have command to praise the Almighty Allah whose blessings are Abundant and
who is our benefactor and whose favours are unlimited. I Offer my humble gratitude
from the core of my heart to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be up on him) who is
forever a torch of guidance and knowledge for the whole mankind.
I extend sincere thanks to my kind supervisor Dr. Muhammad Asghar Malik Professor
Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad for his substantial
guidance, continuous inspiration and invaluable assistance in bringing this dissertation
to its present form.
I am greatly thankful to member of my supervisory committee, Dr. Asghar Ali Professor
and Chairman, Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad and Dr.
Atta Muhammad Ranjha professor Institute of Soil and Environmental Science,
University of Agriculture, Faisalabad for their valuable suggestions, constructive
criticism and encouragement throughout my research endvour.
Special thanks are also due to Mr. Haroon Zaman Khan, Lecturer, Department of
Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad. During the period of these studies for
their cooperation as well as for providing me guidance to complete these studies.
My special love is due to the innocent prayers of all my sweet sisters and lovely young
brother Rahmat Ullah, whose inspiration and best wishes always accompanied me.
I also pay my special gratitude to all my ever best and loving friends, Zia Ullah Zia,
Shahid Kooria, Rao Muhammad Ikram, Rana Jamshaid Ali, Rana Amir, Arshad
Ghazlani, Mahar Sohail, Javaid Bosan, Hafiz Shahbaz, M. Arif, Ali Khosa, M. Hanif,
Bahram Khan, Sajid Fareed, Asim Lodhi, Farooq Chandia, Hafiz Khalil, Zeeshan
Khuram Whose inspiration and best wishes always accompanied me.
Last but not least, I express my deepest gratitude to my Affectionate Parents who
bestowed on me more than what I can ever pray. They always prayed in Day’s Light and
night’s calm for my glorious success and academic excellence.
Atta Ullah Mohsin

This my little effort is dedicated
To My
Loving Parents & Sweet Sisters
Whose prayers always accompanied me in the
journey of My life
&
To My Friends
Without whom encouragement, inspiration and
moral support, it would never been completed.
Contents
Chapter Title Page
1 Introduction 1
2 Review of Literature 5
3 Material and Methods 29
4 Results and Discussion 36
5 Summary 59
6 Literature Cited 61
7 Appendices 74
8 Meteorological Data 85
LIST OF TABLES
No. TITLE PAGE
1 Chemical analysis of soil 36
2 Chemical analysis of FYM 36
Plant height at harvest (cm) of maize as affected by different

3 38
combinations of urea and farm yard manure.
Plant population at harvest (m-2) of maize as affected by different
4 40
Average number of cobs per plant of maize as affected by different
5 42
Cob length (cm) of maize as affected by different combinations of
6 44
urea and farm yard manure.
Cob weight (g) of maize as affected by different combinations of
7 46
Number of grain rows per cob of maize as affected by different
8 48
Number of grains per row of maize as affected by different
9 50
Grain weight cob-1 (g) of maize as affected by different
10 52
11 1000-grain weight (g) of maize as affected by different
54
Grain yield (kg ha-1) of maize as affected by different
12 56
Biological yield (kg ha-1) of maize as affected by different
13 58
LIST OF APPENDICES
NO. TITLE PAGE
Plant height at harvest (cm) of maize as affected by different

1 74
Plant population at harvest (m-2) of maize as affected by different

2 75
Average number of cobs per plant of maize as affected by different

3 76
Cob length (cm) of maize as affected by different combinations of

4 77
Cob weight (g) of maize as affected by different combinations of

5 78
Number of grain rows per cob of maize as affected by different

6 79
Number of grains per row of maize as affected by different

7 80
Grain weight cob-1 (g) of maize as affected by different

8 81
1000-grain weight (g) of maize as affected by different

9 82
Grain yield (kg ha-1) of maize as affected by different combinations

10 83
of urea and farm yard manure.
Biological yield (kg ha-1) of maize as affected by different

11 84
The Controller of examinations,
University of Agriculture,
Faisalabad.
“We, the Supervisory Committee, certify that the contents of thesis submitted by Mr.
ATTA ULLAH MOHSIN Regd. No. 2005-ag-10 have been found satisfactory and
recommend that it be processed for evaluation by the External Examiner (s) for the award of
degree”.
SUPERVISORY COMMITTEE:
Chairman :
(Dr. M. Asghar Malik)
Member :
(Dr. Asghar Ali)
Member :
(Dr. Atta Muhammad Ranjha)
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
Maize is currently widely planted c rop in most countries of the
world and is the third most important grain crop (after wheat and rice) in
Pakistan. It is grown twice a year in the country (spring and autumn). It is
not only a source of food, feed but also utilized as a commercial crop to
manufacture products like corn oil, corn starch and tanning material for
leather industry. Its grain contain s 72% starch, 10% protein, 4.5% fiber,
3% sugar, 4.8% oil and 1.7% ash (Chudhary, 1993).
Although much efforts have been made to improve its production b y
adopting different agro-techniques and crop breeding programs, yet the
yield ha - 1 is far below the level of potential yield of our present varieties.
Among yield determining factors, soil fertility is of prime
importance. Soils of Pakistan being located in the zone of arid climate are
suffering from a serious problem of nutrient and organic matter
deficiency. Therefore, most often their deficiency in soil results in low
crop yield.
Before the advent of chemical fertilizers, farmers mostly relied on
organic matter as the sole source to promote health and productivity of the
soil. Later on, the era of chemical fertilizers started and farmers left the
use of organic matter because chemical fertilizers were an effective
substitute as a ready source of nut rients. The integrated use of organic
sources of nutrients not only supply essential nutrients but also has some
positive interaction with chemical fertilizers to increase their efficienc y
and thereby reduce environmental hazards (Ahmad et al., 1996)
Chemical fertilizers being crucial input for improving soil fertility
have become an important component of advanced crop production
technology.
Integrated use of chemical fertilizers and organic material may be a
good approach for sustainable production of crops. This may improve the
efficiency of chemical fertilizers and thus reduce their use. Integrated use
of organic matter and chemical fertilizers is beneficial in improving crop
yield, soil pH, organic carbon and available N, P and K in sandy loam soil
(Rautaray et al., 2003). Integrated use of organic and inorganic fertilizers
can improve crop productivity and sustain soil health and fertility
(Satyanarayana et al., 2002). Combined application of inorganic and
organic fertilizer is also reported to decrea se soil bulk density, increased
soil moisture, soil fertility, growth of maize, yield and promote maize
grain quality (Rong et al., 2001).
Most of the farmers are using nitrogen alone and do not bother about
the application of other macro-nutrients and micro-nutrients, which are

helpful in increasing crop productivity and improving quality of produce.
Organic sources ameliorate the micro-nutrient deficiencies. It has been
suggested that humic acid present in organic matter increase the
permeability of cell membrane, which results in increased uptake of water
and nutrient elements (Cheng, 1997). The water holding capacity of ver y
sandy soils is increased with heavy manure application and structure and
tilth of heavy textured soils are also improved. Soil prod uctivity can be
increased by utilization of mineral fertilizers as well as organic material
(Azad and Yousaf, 1982).
Organic farming may be one of the solution to increase maize
production. Organic farming reduces cost of production and makes the
best use of local resources i.e. dung, urine, crop residues etc. The use of
organic matter as a low cost supplement to the artificial fertilizers may
help decreasing the cost of production. There is also a positive interaction
between the combination of organic manures and urea nitrogen (Bocchi
and Tano, 1994).
The use of organic matter is not a complete substitute to
chemical fertilizer but infact, it is an added dimension to organic farming
and can play a vital role in optimizing the best soil use, crop manageme nt
and conservation.
Keeping this in view the present studies were undertaken to
determine the performance of maize ( Zea mays L.) under integrated use of
organic manure and nitrogenous fertilizer (urea).

CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
The relevant research work done on the various aspects of the
project is reviewed as under:
Hussain and Ibrahim (1974) studied the effect of varying doses of
dhaincha (S. aculeate) in combination with 200 Ibs of N per acre either as
ammonium sulphate or as urea on the nitrif ying activity of the soil and dry
matter yield of wheat increased significantly as the amount of green
manure increased as compared to ammonium sulphate or urea applied
singly.
Latkovics (1977) observed that phosphorous alone or w ith FYM had little
effect, application of nitrogen increased yield markedl y and showed interaction
with FYM.
Formoli and Prasad (1979) studied the effect of FYM (0 and 15 t ha -

1
) on soil grown with rice-wheat crops. They observed that FYM increased
the organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorous and potassium in
the soil.
Kadiu (1983) reported that optimum fertilizer application for fodder
maize was 50 t FYM + 60 kg N + 80 kg P ha - 1 which gave a fresh matter
yield of 24.07 t ha - 1 compared with 8.22 t ha - 1 with no fertilizer.
Mathers and Stewart (1983) found that FYM increased the hydraulic
conductivity, decreased the bulk density and at the same time higher rates
of FYM also increased the N level in soil and yield of crop.
Krishnasamy et al. (1984) observed from field trials that maize crop
when given 10 or 15 t FYM and /or 40-120 kg P 2 O 5 per ha gave the
highest grain yield of 2.13 t/ha with 15 t organic matter + 80 -kg P 2 O 5 per
ha as compared with 1.16 t without organic manure or P. Soil available P
was significantly increased only with 15 t organic manure + 120 kg P 2 O 5
per ha.
Vesho (1984) in Albania applied 30 tones organic manure ha - 1 and
30 tones organic manure ha - 1 in combination with 70 kg N, 50 kg P and 20
kg K ha - 1 to maize crop. Grain yield of maize ranged from 2.44 t ha - 1 with
no fertilizer to 3.23 t ha - 1 with organic manure, and to 7.87 tones at
highest rates of organic and chemical fertilizers.
Sharma and Saxena. (1985) in a field experiment studied maize
response to crop residues, organic manures and fertilizers P considering
the role of capacity, intensity and rate of release parameters of P
availability in soil. Incorporation of poultry manure, caster cake or FYM
into the soil increased maize yield besides improving soil indices. A
significant increase in P up take by maize grain was observed in FYM
treated soil followed by caster cake and poultry manure. Addition of
fertilizer P significantly increased the grain yield and P utilization by
maize was 23.9 kg P 2 O 5 per ha.
Sharif (1985) carried out studies at NIAB and reported that super
phosphate mixed with FYM in 1:2 ratios increased the efficiency of super
phosphate (P uptake) by 32.4%.
Ceausu et al. (1986) in long term field experiment applied 200-60-
150 Kg NPK ha - 1 +60 t FYM ha - 1 to wheat/maize soybean/wheat/maize
rotations .Maize grain yield ranged from 2.08 and 2.39 t ha - 1 without
fertilizers to 6.44 and 7.33 t ha - 1 with 100 kg urea and 100 kg urea +40 t
FYMha - 1 , respectively.
Machado et al. (1986) conducted an experiment to study the effect of
different sources and levels of fertilizer on the germination and growth of
maize. Fertilizer sources were urea and nitrophos and the fertilizer levels
used were 200-100-100 kg NPK ha - 1 , 250-125-125 kg NPK ha - 1 and 300-
150-150 kg NPK ha - 1 and showed that there was no significant effect of
the treatments on germination and crop stand, but the other crop growth
parameters were significantly increased with the increase in fertilizers.
Salim et al. (1986) studied the s ynergistic effect of organic manure and
mineral fertilizer and observed that nitrogen and phosphorous content of wheat
were highl y affected. The highest nitrogen and phosphorous content were
recorded where 25% N as FYM and 75% as urea was applied. When higher
doses of FYM were applied alone less nitrogen was available due to its low
mineralization rate.
Gopalaswamy and Vidhyasekaram (1987) studied the effect of
various green leaves manures and N fertilizers on grain yield of rice crop
and on soil fertility status. It was found by (asse ssing the dehydrogenase
activities) that green leaf manures and urea were equally effective in
increasing soil microbial activity indicating a higher fertility status.
Ali (1990) conducted a trial with maize variet y “Akbar” and reported
that maximum plant height, fresh biomass and dry matter yield was obtained b y
FYM applied @ 18 t ha - 1 in the presence of NPK under normal soils. He further
reported that N and P uptake increased by increasing the dose of FYM and no
significant effect on K uptake.
Inshin and Vishnyakova (1991) reported that optimum fertili zer rate
for maize crop was 120-120-120 kg NPK ha - 1 . Higher NPK rates did not
significantly increase the yield but increased nutrient uptake and contents
in plant. FYM application caused excessive nitrate acc umulation.
Khanday and Thakur (1991) in field trials applied 40, 80 or 120 kg N
ha - 1 , 0,10 or 20 t FYM ha - 1 and 0 or 125 kg ZnSO4 ha - 1 and observed that
grain yield of maize increased with 80 kg N, 20 t FYM and 25 kg Zn ha - 1 .
Jokela (1992) conducted an experiment to study the effect of
nitrogen fertilizer and dairy manure on corn yield and soil nitrate. He
concluded that yield and nitrogen uptake was increased by N fertilizer and
manure. Without manure, grain and straw yields were increased by N
fertilizer at 112 kg ha - 1 in all years. With organic N fertilizer application
corn yield did not increased significantly.
Nakashgir (1992) studied maize response to applied 0 or 20 kg K 2 O
ha - 1 , 20 or 60 kg N ha - 1 and 0-15 t FYM ha - 1 . He reported that 20 kg K 2 O
ha - 1 resulted in increased grain yield and straw yield, N and K uptake and
N and K contents as compared with no K 2 O application. He further
concluded that effect of K 2 O application on maize yield; N and K uptake
and water use efficiency were inc reased when FYM at 15 t ha - 1 in
combinations was applied.
Blaga et al. (1993) grew maize and oat by applying 40 t FYM ha - 1 or
15 t poultry manure ha - 1 alone or in combinations with 100-60-120 kg
NPK ha - 1 , 100-60 kg NP ha - 1 , 100-60-40 kg NPK ha - 1 , 200-120-80 kg NPK
ha - 1 or 300-180-120 kg NPK ha -1
. Maize grain yield ranged from 0.26 t
-1 -1
ha with no fertilizer to 6.85 t ha at the top NPK rate. They concluded
that application of manures increased yield than control though not equal
to that of the increase BY the combined application of manures and
inorganic fertilizers.
Sidhu and Sur. (1993) reported that uncomposted material + 25%
recommended nitrogen fertilizer also increased plant height (5.6%), fresh

biomass (10.6%), grain weight per cob (7.3%), cob w eight (25%), grain
yield (77.7%), cob length (10.1%) and 1000 grain weight (16.4%) as
compared with control. Similarly, uncomposted material + 25%
recommended nitrogen fertilizer also enhanced nitrogen, phosphorus,
potassium concentration and uptake in straw and grains in maize cultivar
over control. The increase in the above mentioned parameters was due to
25% chemical nitrogen fertilizer and not much due to uncomposted
material because uncomposted material had wider C:N ratio
(immobilization) and less nutrients available as compared to enriched
composted treatments.
Sekhon and Aggarwal (1994) studied the effect of organic manures
on maize/wheat sequence in a long term experiment. Three manure
treatments: untreated, well rotted FYM and cowpea green manurin g was
-1
compared with three rates of N fertilizer i.e. 0, 75 and 125 kg ha as
urea. They found that in wheat crop, boot stage, spike formation, anthesis
and maturity, and grain filling period were not affected by any of the
treatments, whereas grain yield in wheat was highest after application of
FYM.
Yadvindere et al. (1994) conducted a field experiment in 1989-93 at
Ludhiana on a loamy sand soil treated with 0, 150 or 180 kg urea per ha,
green manure (Sesbania aculeate) + urea (adjusted to 150 kg N per ha),
FYM + urea (adjusted to 150 kg N per ha) or GM + FYM prior to

transplanting of rice cv. P-108 seedlings; wheat cv. Hd-2329 was sown
when rice had been harvested. Grain and straw yield were greatest with
GM + FYM. Nitrogen uptake was greatest with 150 k g N per ha and GM +
FYM. Fertilizer use efficiency was highest with GM + FYM. Wheat yield
showed no residual effect from any of the treatments in the first 2 years
but in the 3 r d and 4 t h , years GM + FYM produced significantly higher
grain yield than urea treatments. Soil organic carbon and available P and
K contents were significantly higher in grain yields than urea treatments.
Soil organic carbon and available P and K contents were significantl y
increased by FYM + urea and GM + FYM.
Singh and Singh (1994) studied the effect of residue (straw)
incorporation and fertilizer application on the amount of available N and P
on the rate of mineralization under land farming conditions in India. They
observed that maximum values of available nitrogen were obtained i n the
soil for fertilizer treated plots followed in decreasing order by straw plus
fertilizer > straw > control plots. Available P increased from 26 to 69 % in
straw plus fertilizer treated plots.
Mineralization rate was maximum in straw plus fertilizer treated plots.
Nizami and Salim (1996) reported that greater soil moisture was
-1
conserved and nutrient increased in soil, manured with 10 t FYM ha
followed by FYM + chemical fertilizer (N: P = 50:55) and least with

chemical fertilizer alone. They further observed that maximum grain yield
was obtained with 5 t FYM + chemical fertilizer followed by 10 t FYM.
Ailincai et al.(1997) studied the effect of 0-100 kg N + 0-100 kg
P2O5 + 0-60 t farmyard manure ha - 1 on maize and wheat and reported that
grain yields ranged from 3.16 t ha - 1 with no fertilizer to 6.37 t ha - 1 at the
top fertilizer rates (100-100 kg NP ha - 1 ). Over the period grain yield
increases were 54-104% in wheat and 37-78% in maize with NP and 79-
137% in wheat and 64-102% in maize with NP + FYM.
Bado et al. (1997) compared the long term effects of the use of
mineral fertilizers, organic manure, and a mix of organic and inorganic
(organomineral) fertilizers for Oxisol soil growing maize over an 11 year
period in Burkina Faso. They found that greater yields were obtained
using the organomineral fertilizers than with the
only inorganic fertilizers. Manure increased soil organic matter contents
as compared to the only mineral fertilizers, which also had the effect of
increasing soil acidity and levels of exchangeable aluminum.
Singh et al. (1997) planted maize alone or intercropped with black
gram (Vigna mungo L.) fertilized @ 0 -10 t FYM ha - 1 and 0, 30 or 60 kg N
ha - 1 . Yield of both crops were highest with application of 10 t FYM + 60
kg N ha - 1 .
Salim et al. (1997) concluded from green house and laboratory
studies that micro-organism in combinations with NPK, green manure and
FYM have positive response for wheat yield.
Suri et al. (1997) evaluated the role of FYM in chemical NPK
economy in maize/wheat sequence, treatments comprised of three rates of
N (25, 50 and 100% of recommended doses of 90 kg N + 45 kg P + 30 kg
K ha - 1 for maize) with FYM (maize only) 10 t ha - 1 dry weight. Three
additional treatments were 100% N, 100% NP and 100% NPK followed b y
100% N + FYM. The highest maize grain yield was recorded with 100%
NPK followed by 100% NP + FYM. It was suggested that K application
can be omitted in maize if FYM is applied.
Vanlauwe et al. (1997) found that interactions between organic
inputs and urea resulting in added benefits from their mixed rather than
sole application. Maize in the mixed treatments, receiving 45 kg ha - 1 urea
N and 45 kg ha - 1 N as organic inputs, produced 1.6 and 3.7 Mg ha - 1 grain
in Se´kou and Glidji, respectively. Based on the yields from sole
application of either organic inputs or urea, added benefits from the
mixture were 0.49 Mg ha - 1 grain in Se´kou and 0.58 Mg ha - 1 in Glidji.
These benefits were generated during grain filling, which was
characterized by drought, and they were lik ely caused by improved soil
water conditions with mixed applications compared with sole applications.
Nitrogen recovery from urea was higher in the combined treatments (44%
in Se´kou and 32% in Glidji) relative to the sole urea treatments (22% in
Se´kou and 15% in Glidji). Positive interactions between organic inputs
and urea occurred at two of four sites and were likely caused by improved
soil water conditions after applying organic inputs. Organic inputs
alleviated, constraints to crop growth other than N depletion and, as such,
improved the use efficiency of N fertilizer.

-1
Balik and Olfs (1998) raised maize crop by giving 120 kg N ha .
-1 -1
50 t FYM ha or 50 t pig slurry ha with a control given no fertilizer.
They concluded that there were no clear ef fects of any of the treatments
on the yield.
Chaudry et al. (1998) reported that plant height, fresh biomass, and
NPK contents of maize gave significant highervalues, when nitrogen and
FYM were integrated as compared to the alone application of the two
sources of nutrients.
Mushtaq et al. (1998) concluded that maize root-shoot growth and
nutrient uptake was significantly increased by the application of organic
and inorganic fertilizers. The highest yield and nutrient uptake was
observed when organic and inorganic fertilizers were applied in
combination.
Singh et al. (1998) conducted a field trial to study different
combinations of organic and inorganic fertilizers compared for a rotation
of maize cv. Suwan (grown in June-October) and wheat cv. Sonalika

(November-March). Mean maize yield ranged from 410 kg/ha in
unfertilized controls to 2448 kg from 100% recommended PK + 75%
recommended N + 25% N as FYM; recommended fertilizer rates for both
maize and wheat were 100:22:21 kg NPK. Mean wheat yield ranged from
781 kg ha - 1 in controls to 3124 kg from 100% of recommended NPK. Over
the whole cropping system, energy use efficiency was highest when maize
was given 100% PK + 75% N + 25% N as FYM.
Tripathi and Acharya (1998) conducted study to develop a suitable
crop rotation and utilized crop residues for maintaining soil fertility in
maize-based cropping systems, and to determine the effects of organic and
inorganic fertilizers on crop yields and soil properties. Ten different
combinations of maize-based cropping system and organic and inorganic
fertilizers with or without crop residues were compared. Application of
34.54 t FYM ha - 1 (equivalent to 120 kg N ha - 1 ) produced the highest maize
grain yield of 2.85 t ha - 1 . Application of balanced chemical fertilizer
alone (120:60:40 kg N: P2O5:K2O ha - 1 ) adversely affected maize grain
and stover yields and gave the lowest yield of 0.24 and 1.18 t ha - 1 ,
respectively. The residual effects of manure plus crop residues applied to
maize increased finger millet yield.
Zamfir and Zamfir (1998) observed the effect of organic and mineral
fertilizer on yield and silage quality of maize grown in rotation and

-1
reported that application of FYM at 50 t ha after every four years
increased whole crop air dry matter yield. When maize was plac ed in
rotation, on the first 2 years after FYM application, N fertilizer was not
necessary whereas application of nitrogen fertilizer increased proportion
of ear in the yield.
Zhang et al. (1998) compared the variable rates of N from cattle manure
with N from urea. They reported that plant height, number of grains per cob,
cob girth, grain rows per cob, number of cobs per plant, grain yield (7210-
12177 kg ha - 1 ) and N uptake were increased b y increasing N fertilizer rate and
manure application. They further concluded that precise application of manure
to maize crop can be as effective as commercial N fertilizer for yield response
and can pose little threat to ground water qualit y.
Balik et al. (1999) evaluated the effect of different rates and forms
of N fertilizers on yield of maize, N content in plant biomass and N uptake
of above ground biomass in a long-term experiment with continuousl y
grown maize. Five treatments, no fertilizers, two with mineral fertilizers
(ammonium sulphate (SA) or urea ammonium nitrate solution (DAM),
DAM + straw and FYM) were compared. Fertilizers were applied at an

-1
annual rate of 120 kg N ha and the mean equivalent rate for the manure
-1
was 187 kg N ha . The longer the duration of the experiment, the greater
was reduction in biomass yield in the treatment with out fertilizers. In
1991-95, there was an average maize yield of 12.02 t dry matter and in
-1
1996-98, 10.09 t ha . In 1996-98, the yield difference was 23 %
between no fertilizer and SA, 26 % between no fertilizer and DA M, 34 %
between no fertilizer and straw treatment and 52 % between no fertilizer
and FYM.
Chung et al. (2000) reported that compost plus an adequate amount
of chemical N fertilizer could produce higher dry matter yield and N
accumulation than the conventional chemical N fertilizer treatment.
Jadhav et al. (2000) stated that incorporation of 25% N as farmyard
manure was also found to increase sugar cane yield and its yield
attributes, there by reducing 25% N fertilizer dose.
Khaliq et al. (2000) studied the effect of farmyard manure and
poultry manure along with urea on two corn hybrids (pioneer 3062 and
pioneer 3012). The two hybrids differed significantly in number of cobs
per plant, 1000 grain weight and grain yield. On the other hand, harvest
index remained unaffected by treatments. Hybrid pioneer 3062 performed
better with respect to all parameters, except number of grains per cob.
Combined use of poultry manure and urea performed the best among all
treatments.
Seo-Jong Ho (2000) reported that soil O.M. a ct as sink and source of
nutrients in the soil system because it has high nutrient holding capacity.
It also act as large pool for the storage of N., S., and P. and has the
capacity to supply these and other nutrients for plant growth. The
physiological benefits of O.M. include improved soil structure, increased
aeration, reduced bulk density, increased water holding capacity, enhanced
soil aggregation and reduced soil erosion.
Shah and Arif (2000) conducted an experiment on maize cv. Azam to
study the effect of application of 0, 5, 10 and 15 t ha - 1 FYM with 0, 60 and
90 kg N ha - 1 . They reported that yield and yield traits were significantly
affected by FYM and inorganic N. Maximum plant height of 178 and 170
cm was obtained by applying the highest rate of F YM and N. Number of
cob/100 plants, number of grains per cob and 1000-grain weight were
significantly affected by FYM. Maximum stalk and grain yield (8918 and
5910 kg ha - 1 ) were obtained with the highest levels of FYM and inorganic
N.
Guggari and Kalaghatagi (2001) investigated the effect of FYM at 2.5
and 5.0 t ha - 1 and nitrogen at 20 and 40 kg ha - 1 applied alone or in
combinations on pearl millet. They observed that application of FYM and
nitrogen alone and in combinations increased the fodder yield. Amon g the
treatments 5 t ha - 1 + 40 kg N ha - 1 and 2.5 t FYM ha - 1 + 40 kg N ha - 1 were found
significantl y superior than all other treatments.
Lopez et al. (2001) evaluated the main effect of organic fertilizers
on the physical and chemical properties of soil, and to select the best
organic fertilizer for maize cv. San Lorenzo. Four treatments consisting of
different rates of organic fertilizers were evaluated: 20, 30 and 40 t ha - 1

compost and cattle and goat manure; 4, 8 and 12 t ha - 1 poultry manure; and
a control using chemical fertilizer (120-40-00 NPK). The variables
evaluated were soil moisture, soil pH, organic matter, N and P, and grain
yield. Changes in soil chemical properties (organic matter, nitrogen and
phosphorus content) occurred. The treatment with chemical fertilizer
produced the highest grain yield (6.65 t ha - 1 ) and compost treatment
showed significantly similar results (5.66 t ha - 1 ).
Madejon et al. (2001) reported that the application of organic matter
with inorganic fertilizers significantly incr eased crop yield when
compared with inorganic fertilizers alone and control .At the end of the
experimental period, soil oxidable-C, total humic extract-C and humic
acid–C contents significantly increased in soil treated with O.M. Organic
matter also increased Kjeldhal-N contents of soil.
Muneshwar et al. (2001) concluded that combined application of
O.M. and inorganic N sustained the productivity even at lower level of N
application. Organic matter and the total N status declined with
application of N fertilizer alone but increased with integrated use of N
fertilizer and O.M. They further concluded that use of FYM and green
manure increased the K and S availability in the soil. The Incorporation of
5 tones FYM and 6 tones GM saved 70-80 kg N ha - 1 without any adverse
effect on productivity of rice-wheat system and the soil health.

Negassa et al. (2001) conducted an experiment to introduce the
culture of supplementing low rates of NP fertilizers with farmyard manure
(FYM) in the maize based farming system of western Oromia. The
treatments were 0-0, 20-20, 40-25 and 60-30 kg NP ha - 1 and 0, 4, 8 and
12 t FYM ha - 1 . The results showed that interactions of FYM and NP
fertilizers rates were significant at all locations except for Shoboka. The
application of FYM alone at rates of 4, 8 and 12 t ha - 1 produced average
grain yields of 5.76, 5.61 and 5.93 t ha - 1 , respectively as compared to 3.53
t ha - 1 for control treatment
Rong et al. (2001) evaluated the effects of combined inorganic and
organic fertilizer application to red upland soil and determined its
reasonable application ratio. Results showed that 25 to 50% organic +50 to
75% chemical fertilizer application of combined inorganic and organic
fertilizer decreased soil bulk density, increased soil moisture, soil
fertility, growth of maize and maize yield, and promoted maize grain
quality.
Tolessa et al. (2001) studied the effect of enriched farm yard manure
(FYM) on grain yield of maize. Enrichment of conventional FYM was done
separatel y with 25% and 50% each of recom mended nitrogen and phosphorous
fertilizers and their combinations from urea and di -ammonium phosphate
sources. They found that the growth and yield of maize were increased
significantl y with the application of enriched FYM. Enriched FYM increased

grain yield b y 40% as compared to conventional FYM. However, the residual
effect of enriched FYM was very marginal.
Bajpai et al. (2002) reported that the application of farmyard manure
and rice straw in rice significantly improved the available N and P status
of soil and indicated the possibility of saving 50% fertilizer N in rice and
25% in wheat
Brar et al. (2002) conducted a long term fertilizer experiment (1971 -
2000) with maize-wheat-cowpea (fodder) cropping s ystem. Different nutrient
combinations (NPK) with FYM were used to stud y their response on crops. All
crops showed marked response to NPK application and increase yield. At the
end of 29 cycles of crop rotation, soil organic carbon content increased
significantl y in FYM treated plot, a marked increase in available N was
recorded. Fertilizer N use Efficiency of crop improved with balanced NPK
fertilizer and FYM.
Das et al. (2002) reported that greater yield, dry matter content,
nutrient uptake (N, P and K), plant height, leaf area, and fresh weight of
nodules in green gram (V. radiata cv.Sujata) were obtained with 100%
enriched compost compared to sole organic manure.
Pathak et al. (2002) Evaluated the efficacy of organic sources, i.e.
farmyard manure (FYM), rice (Oryza sativa) straw in organo-inorganic
combinations, in the maize (Z. mays)-wheat (T. aestivum) cropping
system. At the start of the experiment, the soil was loam in texture,
slightly acidic in reaction, and characterized by low organic carbon
content and medium status of available N, P and K. Growth parameters,
yield attributes, yield and economics of maize were optimum in the
substitution of 25% of the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) through
FYM, while these parameters were optimum in wheat with 50%
substitution of RDF through FYM in maize + 100% RDF in wheat.
Equivalent yield of wheat for the whole system was highest with 50%
substitution of RDF through FYM in maize + 100% RDF in wheat,
followed by 25% RDF substitution through FYM in maize +75% RDF in
wheat over all the other treatments.
Rubapathi et al. (2002) reported that application of combined
sources of organic and inorganic nutrients in sorghum recorded higher
nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake than the nutrient management
methods of sole organic and inorganic source of nutrients.
Selvi et al. (2002) conducted a long term fertilizer experiment on
finger millet-maize-cowpea (fodder) in sequence involving varying doses
of N, NP, NPK with FYM (finger millet) and Zn (maize). The results
indicated that there was a sharp decrease in D TPA-Zn and an increase in
Fe, Cu and Mn content of the surface soil after 25 years. After the
analysis, results showed that 100% NPK+FYM increased DTPA -Fe, Cu
and Mn contents.
Abu-Hussain et al. (2003) studied the effect of cattle and chicken
manure with or without mineral fertilizers on vegetative growth, chemical
composition and yield of the potato tubers. Five treatments were applied,
i.e. cattle manure, chicken manure, cattle manure plus chicken manure,
cattle manure plus mineral fertilizer and chicken manure plus mineral
fertilizer. Applying cattle manure combined with chicken manure
increased vegetative growth expressed as plant height and leaves and
stems fresh weight. Starch, N, P, and K percentage increased the leaves
and tubers by adding cattle manure combined with the chicken manure.
Highest total yield was obtained by using cattle manure combined
aggregates. The MWD of aggregates was related to the Cambridge College
Pakpattan content of soil under no -till but not in case of conventional
tillage.
Kwabiah et al. (2003) conducted a field experiment in western
Kenya to compare the effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on resin
extractable P availability and maize (Zea mays L.) yield. Leaf biomass and
small twigs of Tithonia diversifolia, Croton megalocarpus, Lantana
camara L., Senna spectabilis, Calliandra calothyrsus, and Sesbania
sesban, were applied at 5 Mg ha - 1 (DW), supplying an estimated 9-15 kg P
ha - 1 and 30-212 kg N ha - 1 . The inorganic fertilizer was triple super
phosphate (TSP), urea and potassium chloride. Effects of Tithonia and
Croton on maize yield were similar to effects of 50 kg P ha+120 kg N ha

as inorganic fertilizer. The results indicate that improvements of
extractable soil P can come from either P released from organic inputs o r
increased availability of native soil P following addition of organic and
inorganic fertilizers.
Jayaprakash et al. (2003) evaluated the effect of organic and
inorganic fertilizers on the yield and yield attributes of maize under
irrigated condition. The treatments consisted of 3 levels of organics (no
organics, farmyard manure (FYM) at 10 tones ha - 1 and vermicompost at 2 t
ha - 1 ) and 5 levels of inorganic (100, 125, 150, 175 and 200% of the
recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), which is 150:75:37.5 kg NPK ha - 1 ).
The grain yield of maize was significantly affected by the application of
organics. Significantly highest grain yield (6.747 t ha - 1 ) was obtained with
the application of vermicompost at 2 tones ha - 1 . Significantly higher straw
yield was obtained with organic treatment and application of 200% RDF
recorded significantly higher grain yield (6 .8 t ha - 1 ) and higher Stover
yield of 10.31 t ha - 1 over 100% NPK (9.10 t ha - 1 ). The increase in grain
yield was due to higher number of seed rows per cob, number of seeds per
row, cob length and test weight.
Nyamangara et al. (2003) Studied the effect of nitrogen fertilizer @
0, 60, 120 kg ha - 1 and cattle manure @ 0, 12.5 t ha - 1 in maize. The
interaction between manure and nitrogen fertilizer enhanced nitrogen
recovery. The highest nitrogen recovery was observed when manure was
combined with low rate of nitrogen (60kg ha - 1 ) with average of 58% and
63% in the first and third season, respectively
Ghosh et al. (2004) evaluated the manural potential of three organic
manures: farmyard manure (FYM), poultry manure (PM), phosphocompost
(PC) vis-à-vis 0%, 75% and 100% recommended dose of fertilizer -NPK to
find out the most productive cropping system at various combinations of
organic manures and chemical fertilizers. Application of 75% NPK in
combination with PM or FYM or PC to preceding rainy season crops
(soybean and sorghum) and 75% NPK to wheat produced significantl y
higher grain yield of wheat than those in inorganic and control indicating
noticeable residual effect on the succeeding wheat crop and saving of 25%
fertilizer-NPK. The effect of PC on rainy season crops was not as
prominent as those of FYM and PM, but its residual effect on grain yield
of wheat was comparable to those two organic manures.
Sharif et al. (2004) studied the comparative efficiency of organic
and inorganic fertilizers applied alone or in combinations on the yield and
yield components of maize crop. Organic fertilizers humic acid at 200 g
ha - 1 and farmyard manure (FYM) at 5000 kg ha - 1 , while inorganic
fertilizers (NPK) at 120-90-60 kg ha - 1 were applied. They observed an
increase in grain yield, total dry matter, and 1000-grain weight by 72%,
25% and 28%, respectively over control upon application of humic acid
alone. Highest grain yield of 4140 kg ha - 1 , total dry matter yield of 12710
kg ha - 1 and 1000-grain weight of 250 g was obtained by the addition of
humic acid in combination with FYM and NPK. Optimum grain yield of
3900 kg ha - 1 , total dry matter yield of 12710 kg ha - 1 and 1000-grain yield
of 240 g were obtained by application of humic acid in combination with
NPK. They also reported a significant increase in grain yield, total dry
matter and 1000-grain weight over control, due to inorganic fertilizers
(NPK).
Liebman et al. (2004) conducted three year field experiment in
Boone Iowa, U.S.A, to determine how compost affects, the soil
characteristics and nutrient uptake, growth and seed production of maize.
The results showed that the field with 118 kg ha - 1 nitrogen along with
compost gave more - organic matter, plant population and early season
nitrogen. It also increased maize height and leaf potash concentration as
compared to where 140 kg ha - 1 nitrogen was applied only from synthetic
fertilizer.
Oad et al. (2004) observed that all maize plant param eters were
significantl y affected with the incorporation of FYM and nitrogen levels. They
concluded that the inorganic nitrogen application was the common practice of
farmer, but if, FYM was supplemented with the inorganic nitrogen source there
may be significant increase in maize fodder yield.

Bayu et al. (2006) conducted an experiment to assess the effect of the
combined use of farmyard manure and inorganic fertilizer on the growth and
yield of sorghum and on soil chemical properties in a semi -arid area in
northeastern Ethiopia. They reported that the combined application of farm yard
manure and inorganic fertilizers increased post -anthesis, plant height, number
of grains per cob, cob length, dry-matter production b y 147%–390% and grain
yield of sorghum by 14%–36%. The main effects of farmyard manure and
inorganic fertilizers increased stover yield b y 8%–21% and 14%–21%,
respectivel y. Farm yard manure application increased total nitrogen (N) uptake
b y 21%–36%, grain protein yield b y 8% –11%, and grain protein concentration
b y 20%–29%. Application of farm yard manure along with 50% of the
recommended inorganic fertilizer rate resulted in a grain yield equivalent to, or
greater than that for 100% of the recommended inorganic fertilizer rate, thus
affecting a 50% savings of inorganic N and phosphorus (P) fertilizer.

CHAPTER 3
MATERIAL AND METHODS
The study pertaining to the combined effect of organic manure and
fertilizer N on the growth and yield of maize hybrid Pioneer 32-W-86 was
carried out at the Agronomic Research Area, University of Agriculture,
Faisalabad. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block
design, with three replications, having a net plot size of 3.0 m x 6.0 m.
The experiment comprised of the following treatments:
N% (Urea) N% (FYM)
T1 = Control (no fertilizer)
T2 = 0 100
T3 = 25 75
T4 = 50 50
T5 = 75 25
T6 = 100 0
The crop was sown on a well prepared seedbed on the 16 t h of
February, 2006 on 75 cm spaced ridges, using a seed rate of 30 kg ha - 1 ,

maintaining P x P distance of 15 cm. Plant to plant distance was achieved
through thinning the crop at 3 to 4 leaf stage.
Recommended dose of NPK @ 250:125:125 kg ha - 1 was applied.
According to the treatments, full percentage of nitrogen obtained from
farmyard manure was applied at the time of sowing. Then the Amount of P
and K was calculated from the amount of farmyard applied and remaining
dose of P and K was fulfilled by using sources as single super phosphate
(SSP) and murate of potash (MOP). Full dose of phosphorous and potassium was
applied at the time of sowing and ½ N were applied at sowing time and
remaining half dose of N nitrogen obtained from urea was applied at knee
height stage. All the other agronomic practices except those under study
were kept normal and uniform for all the treatments. The crop was
harvested on June 22, 2006. The following observations were recorded
during course of study:
OBSERVATIONS
1. Plant height at harvest (cm)
2. Plant population at harvest (m - 2 )
3. Average number of cobs per plant
4. Cob length (cm)
5. Cob weight (g)
6. Number of grain rows per cob

7. Number of grains per row
8. Grain weight cob - 1 (g)
9. 1000-grain weight (g)
10.Grain yield (kg ha - 1 )
11.Biological yield (kg ha - 1 )
PROCEDURE ADOPTED FOR RECORDING OBSERVATIONS
1. Plant height at maturity (cm)
Height of randomly selected ten plants at maturity from each plot
were measured with the help of meter rod from the first visible node above
ground to highest growing point and the average height p er plant was
calculated.
2. Plant population at harvest (m - 2 )
The whole number of plants were counted from each plot at the time
of harvest and then plants m - 2 was calculated by dividing the total number
of plants in the plot by the area of the plot.
3. Average number of cobs per plant

Ten plants were randomly selected from each plot and their cobs
were counted. The average numbers of cobs per plant were calculated b y
dividing total number of cobs by the number of plants.
4. Cob length (cm)
Ten randomly selected cobs were taken from each plot and their
length was measured with the help of measuring tape and then averaged.
5. Cob weight (g)
Ten randomly selected cobs were taken from each plot and then
weighed. The average was calculated for each plot.
6. Number of grain rows per cob
Ten cobs were selected at random from each plot, the grain rows of
each cob were counted individually and average was worked out.
7. Number of grains per row
Ten cobs were selected at random from each plot, number of grains
per row was counted individually and then average was calculated.
8. Grain weight per cob (g)
The grain weight per cob was recorded by separating the grains from
the ten randomly selected cobs from each plot and then averaged
9. 1000-Grain Weight (g)

From the produce of ten randomly selected sun dried cobs, three
samples, each comprising of 1000-grains, were taken from each plot and
then weighed by using electrical digital balance. Average was computed
and weight of 1000-grains was recorded in grams in each treatment
separately.
10. Grain yield (kg ha - 1 )
Grain yield per plot was weighed in kg and then converted into kg
ha - 1 .
11. Biological yield (kg ha - 1 )
When the crop was fully mature, it was harvested and sun
dried plot wise .The stalks along with cobs were weighed with the help o f
spring balance to calculate biological yield per plot. The biological yield
per plot was then converted into kg ha - 1 .
12. Statistical Analysis
Data collected was tabulated, analyzed statistically according to
Fisher’s Analysis of variance technique. Least s ignificant difference
(LSD) test at 5% probability was applied to test the significance of
treatment’s mean (Steel and Torrie, 1997).
13. Soil Analysis
The initial soil fertility was determined from the soil samples taken
to a depth of 0-15 cm with soil auger before sowing the crop. The soil
chemical analysis was performed in Soil Chemical Laboratory of Ayub

Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad and the test report obtained is
presented in the table 3.1.
14. Farmyard manure analysis
The chemical analysis of FYM was performed in the Institute of
Soil and Environmental Sciences laboratory, University of Agriculture ,
Faisalabad and the test report obtained is presented in the table 3.2.
LAYOUT
NON EXPERIMENTAL AREA
R2 NON EXPERIMENTAL AREA R3

T4 T6 T1 T2 T5 T3

MAIN WATER CHANNEL
SUB-WATER CHANNEL
T6 T3 T5 T1 T4 T2

PATH
T5 T1 T2 T4 T3 T6 R1

SUB-WATER CHANNEL
Design : RCBD
No. of Treatments : 6
No. of Replications : 3
Net plot size : 3.00 m x 6.00 m

Table 3.1 CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF SOIL
Determination Unit Value obtained
Organic matter % 0.63
Available P 2 O 5 ppm 6.875
Available K 2 O ppm 225
Total Nitrogen % 0.03
Table 3.2 CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF FYM
Determination Unit Value obtained
Nitrogen % 0.875
Phosphorous (P 2 O 5 ) % 0.26
Potassium (K 2 O) % 0.5
CHAPTER 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
During the course of present studies, an experiment was conducted
to determine the performance of maize hybrid 32-W-86 under N
application using different combinations of urea and FYM.The data
pertaining to various growth and yield parameters along with statistical
analysis and interpretation are presented and discussed in this chapter:
4.1 PLANT HEIGHT AT HARVEST (cm)
Data pertaining to plant height (cm) at maturity presented in Table
4.1 indicate that the effect of treatments on the parameter under study was
significant. Among these treatments, T 6 in which N source was 100%
through urea produced the tallest plants (211.3 cm) but was statistically
similar to T 4 and T 6 treatments producing plant height of207.4 cm and
205.8 cm, respectively. The minimum plant height (188.2 cm) was
recorded in T 1 treatment, where no nitrogen was applied; it was however,
statistically at par with T 2 . These results are supported by those of
Chaudhry et al. (1998), who reported that plant height, fresh biomass, and
NPK contents of maize

Table 4.1 Plant height at harvest (cm) of maize as affected by
different combinations of urea and farm yard manure
A) ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of Degrees of Sum of Mean

F-Value
Variation Freedom Squares Square
Replications
2 77.138 38.569 2.3459
Treatments
5 1077.596 215.519 13.1087**
Error
10 164.409 16.441
Total
17 1319.143
** = Highl y significant
B) COMPARISON OF TREATMENTS MEANS
TREATMENTS MEANS
T 1 = Control (No Fertilizer Applied) 188.2 d
T 2 = 0 % N from urea + 100 % N from FYM 195.8 cd
T 3 = 25 % N from urea + 75 % N from FYM 200.6 bc
T 4 = 50% N from urea + 50% N from FYM 205.8 ab
T 5 = 75 % N from urea + 25 % N from FYM 207.4 ab
T 6 = 100 % N from urea + 0 % N from FYM 211.3 a

Any two means not s haring a letter , differ significantl y at 5 % probability le vel
LSD value = 8.510

gave significant values, when N and FYM were integrated as compared to
the alone application of the two sources of nutrients.
By observing the combined effect of FYM and artificial fertilizer, it
was noted that recommended nitrogen fertilizer was found more effective
to increase the growth parameters like plant height and there was no
statistically difference in plant height within various treatments because
the mineral fertilizer alone and used in combinations with FYM gave the
same results regarding the plant height (Zhang et al, 1998).
4.2 PLANT POPULATION AT HARVEST (m - 2 )
The number of plants per unit area is also an important component of
yield. The more the number of plants the more will be the yield. The
results regarding the influence of various treatments on plant population
of maize presented in Table 4.2 show that there was no significant
difference in number of plants per m 2 because the plant population was
maintained through thinning. The nutrients have no effect on the
germination of the seeds. These results are similar to the findings of
Machado et al. (1986), who reported that different sources and fertilizers
levels has no significant effect on the germination and crop stand.

Table 4.2 Plant population at harvest (m - 2 ) of maize as affected by

F-Value
Replications
2 0.778 0.389 2.0588
Treatments
5 0.444 0.089 0.4706 n s
Error
10 1.889 0.189
Total
17 3.111
ns = Non-significant
TREATMENTS MEANS
T 1 = Control (No Fertilizer Applied) 7.00
T 2 = 0 % N from urea + 100 % N from FYM 7.33
T 4 = 50% N from urea + 50% N from FYM 7.000

LSD value = 8.510.

4.3 AVERAGE NUMBER OF COBS PER PLANT
Number of cobs per plant has great effect on the final grain yield of
maize. The data presented in Table 4.3 reflect the effect of various
proportions of organic manure and urea fertilizer on the number of cobs
per plant. Significantly more number (1.190) of cobs per plant was
recorded from plot fertilized with proportion of 50% from urea + 50%
from FYM (T 4 ) which was statistically at par with T 5 and T 6 treatments;
whereas significantly less number of cobs per plant were recorded from
control plot (1.010). These results are accordance with Zhang et al.
(1998), who observed that the number of cobs increased with the increase
in the level of organic and inorganic fertilizer. The reason for such results
may be adequate supply of plant nutrients by the application of 50% N
from urea + 50% N from FYM, plants received large amount of nutrients
throughout their growth period and nourished properly which resulted in
maximum number of cobs per plant.

Table 4.3 Number of cobs per plant of maize as affected by

F-Value
Replications
2 0.003 0.002 0.5272
Treatments
5 0.063 0.013 4.3557*
Error
10 0.029 0.003
Total
17 0.094
* = Significant
TREATMENTS MEANS
T 1 = Control (No Fertilizer Applied) 1.010 c
T 4 = 50% N from urea + 50% N from FYM 1.190 a

LSD value = 0.09965

4.4 COB LENGTH (cm)
Cob length is one of the important factors to determine the yield of
maize. As the length of cob will be more, there will be more number of
grains per row and ultimately more grain yield per cob. It is evident from
Table 4.4 that treatments had statistically significant effect on the cob
length. Maximum cob length (18.57cm) was observed in treatment T 4
where N was applied 50% from urea + 50% from FYM and was
statistically at par with treatments; T 6 and T 5 producing cob length of
17.73 cm and 17.60 cm respectively. Minimum cob length (14.13 cm) was
recorded in control plot, where no fertilizer was applied. It was however,
statistically at par with T 2 and T 3 treatments. These results are in line with
Bayu et al. (2006), who reported that application of farmyard manure along
with 50% of the recommended inorganic fertilizer rate resulted in increase
in cob length of maize

Table 4.4 Cob length (cm) of maize as affected by different
combinations of urea and farm yard manure

F-Value
Replications
2 0.101 0.051 0.1156
Treatments
5 52.944 10.589 42.2186*
Error
10 4.372 0.437
Total
17 57.418
* = Significant
TREATMENTS MEANS
T 1 = Control (No Fertilizer Applied) 14.13 b
T 2 = 0 % N from urea + 100 % N from FYM 14.57 b

Any two means not s haring a letter , differ significantl y at 5 % probability l e vel
LSD value = 1.387

4.5 COB WEIGHT (g)
The results presented in Table 4.5 show that there was a significant
increase in cob weight with the application of different proportions of urea
fertilizer and FYM.
Maximum cob weight (216.4 g) was recorded in T 4 , and was
statistically at par with treatments; T 5 and T 6 in which cob weight was
210.6 g and 210.1 g respectively. The minimum cob weight was obtained
in treatment T 1 (189.9 g), where no fertilizer was applied . It was
statistically at par with T 2 and T 3 treatments. Sidhu and Sur. (1993) had
attributed significant increase in cob weight to the application of mineral
fertilizer + organic material in combinations . This might be due to the
better nutrient uptake and development of the plant and cob.

Table 4.5 Cob weight (g) of maize as affected by different

F-Value
Replications
2 22.990 11.495 0.6258
Treatments
5 2083.627 416.725 22.6871*
Error
10 183.684 18.368
Total
17 2290.300
* = Significant
TREATMENTS MEANS
T 1 = Control (No Fertilizer Applied) 189.9 b

LSD value = 8.995

4.6 NUMBER OF GRAIN ROWS PER COB
The number of grain rows per cob is an other important yield
component of maize crop. More the number of grain rows per cob, more
will be the grain yield. The data regarding effect of nitrogen application
through different combinations of urea and farm yard manure on the
number of grain rows per cob presented in Table 4.6 revealed that average
number of grain rows per cob was significantly influenced by the
treatments under study.
The maximum number of grain rows per cob was obtained in T 4
(16.60), where N was applied 50% from urea + 50% from FYM. The
minimum number of grain rows per cob was recorded in T 1 (14.53), where
no nitrogen was applied. These results are similar to the findings of Zhang
et al. (1998), who reported that precise application of manure and mineral
fertilizer to maize crop can be as effective as commercial N fertilizer for yield
response.
Table 4.6 Number of grain rows per cob of maize as affected by

F-Value
Replications
2 0.280 0.140 6.1765
Treatments
5 8.153 1.631 71.9411**
Error
10 0.227 0.023
Total
17 8.660
TREATMENTS MEANS
T 2 = 0 % N from urea + 100 % N from FYM 15.07 c

LSD value = 0.4037

4.7 NUMBER OF GRAINS PER ROW
The number of grains per row is an important yield component in
maize. Data in table 4.7 reveal that the treatmental effect on the parameter
under study was significant.
The comparison among the individual treatment means indicate that
treatment; T 4 gave the highest number of grains/ row (33.37), where N was
applied 50% from urea + 50% from FYM. The minimum number of
grains/row was recorded in treatment T 1 (27.70), where no fertilizer was
applied and was statistically at par with T 2 treatment.

Table 4.7 Number of grains per row of maize as affected by

F-Value
Replications
2 5.141 2.571 2.4407
Treatments
5 51.431 10.286 9.7664*
Error
10 10.532 1.053
Total
17 67.104
* = Significant
TREATMENTS MEANS

LSD value = 2.154

4.8 GRAIN WEIGHT PER COB (g)
Grain weight per cob is the main factor, which contributes
substantially towards the final yield of the crop. It is clear from the data
presented in Table 4.8, that there was a significant effect of treatments on
grain weight per cob. The highest grain weight per cob (134.2 g) was
recorded in T 4 treatment in which N was applied 50% from urea + 50%
from FYM and was statistically at par with T 5 treatment.
The minimum grain weight per cob (119.1 g) was recorded in T 1
treatment where no fertilizer was applied which was however, statist icall y
at par with T 2 and T 3 treatments. These results are in line with the findings
of Sidhu and Sur. (1993). The increase in the grain weight per cob in
treatment of 50% urea + 50% FYM was mainly due to more cob length and
more number of grains per cob.

Table 4.8 Grain weight per cob (g) of maize as affected by

F-Value
Replications
2 48.355 24.177 1.9349
Treatments
5 460.511 92.102 7.3710*
Error
10 124.952 12.495
Total
17 633.818
* = Significant
TREATMENTS MEANS

LSD value = 7.419

4.9 1000-GRAIN WEIGHT (g)
Grain weight is an important yield component. Mean values
regarding 1000-grain weight of maize as influenced by mineral fert ilizer
and organic manure are presented in Table 4.10, which reveals that the
treatmental effect was highly significant on the parameter under
discussion. Maximum 1000-grain weight (279.1 g) was obtained in T 4 plot
which was fertilized with N (50% from urea + 50% from FYM) followed
by T 6 (270.2 g), where only urea fertilizer was applied.
The minimum 1000-grain weight was obtained in treatment T 1 (242.4
g), where no nitrogen was applied. Results are corroborating with Sidhu
and Sur (1993). The increase in 1000-grain weight in T 4 was mainly due to
the balanced supply of food nutrients from both urea and FYM throughout
the grain filling and development period.

Table 4.9 1000-grain weight (gm) of maize as affected by different

F-Value
Replications
2 17.679 8.840 0.7739
Treatments
5 2373.368 474.674 41.5560**
Error
10 114.225 11.422
Total
17 2505.272
TREATMENTS MEANS

LSD value = 6.148

4.10 GRAIN YIELD (kg/ha)
Grain yield is a function of the integrated effect of the entire
individual yield components. Treatments under study affected grain yield
significantly (table 4.10). The combined application of N 50% from urea +
50% from FYM (T 4 ) produced the maximum maize grain yield (5793
kg/ha) followed by treatment T 5 which produced the grain yield of 5717
kg/ha. Whereas, control (T 1 ) plot gave minimum yield of 4417 kg/ha.
The increase in grain yield in case of combined use of FYM an d urea
fertilizer was mainly due to the more number of grains per cob as well as
number of cobs per plant and better grain development. These results are
similar to the findings of Vesho (1984), Sidhu and Sur (1993) and Rong et
al. (2001), who reported that 25 to 50% organic +50 to 75% chemical
fertilizer application increased soil moisture, soil fertility, growth of
maize and maize yield and promoted maize grain quality.

Table 4.10 Grain yield (kg ha - 1 ) of maize as affected by different

F-Value
Replications
2 301.444 150.722 0.2326
Treatments
5 4077266.278 815453.256 1258.4371**
Error
10 6479.889 647.989
Total
17 4084047.611
TREATMENTS MEANS

LSD value = 46.31

4.11 BIOLOGICAL YIELD (kg/ha)
The results presented in Table 4.11, show a highly significant effct
of treatments on the parameter under discussion. Maximum biological
yield (14880 kg/ha) was obtained where N was applied 50% from urea +
50% from FYM (T 4 ) followed by T 6 producing the biological yield of
13830 kg/ha where only urea fertilizer was applied and T 3 was statisticall y
at with T 6 treatment .
The minimum biological yield was obtained in T 1 treatment (12210
kg/ha) where no fertilizer was applied. These results are in line with those
of Sidhu and Sur (1993). The increase in biological yield of maize in T 4
might be due to the proper and balanced supply of nutrients to the plants.
Table 4.11 Biological yield (kg ha - 1 ) of maize as affected by

F-Value
Replications
2 5240.111 2620.056 0.5634
Treatments
5 13013863.722 2602772.722 559.6893**
Error
10 46503.889 4650.389
Total
17 13065607.611
TREATMENTS MEANS
T1 = Control (No Fertilizer Applied) 12210 e
T2 = 0 % N from urea + 100 % from N FYM 12730 d
T3 = 25 % N from urea + 75 % from N FYM 13780 b
T4 = 50% N from urea + 50% from N FYM 14880 a
T5 = 75 % N from urea + 25 % from N FYM 13560 c
T6 = 100 % N from urea + 0 % from N FYM 13830 b

LSD value = 124.1

CHAPTER 5
SUMMARY
The experiment was conducted at the Agronomic research area,
University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, to evaluate the effect of nitrogen
application through different combinations of urea and farm yard manure
on the performance of spring maize ( Zea mays L.). The recommended rates
of NPK; 250, 125 and 125 kg ha - 1 , respectively were used. The experiment
consisted of the following treatments; T 1 ═ control, T 2 ═ 100% N through
FYM, T 3 ═ 25% N through urea and 75% N through FYM, T 4 ═ 50% N
through urea and 50% N through FYM, T 5 ═ 75% N through urea and 25%
N through FYM, T 6 ═ 100% N through urea. The experiment was laid out
in randomized complete block design with three replications. Hybrid
maize Pioneer 32-W-86 was sown on 16 t h of February, 2006. The soil
samples were collected from 0-15 cm depth to be used for chemical
analysis. A representative sample of farmyard manure was also analyzed
for chemical characteristics. Data were recorded on plant height (cm),
plant population, number of cobs per plant, cob length (cm), cob
weight(g), number of grain rows per cob, number of grains per row, grain
weight per cob (g), grain yield kg ha - 1 , 1000-grain weight (g) and
biological yield kg ha - 1 . The results obtained are summarized as below:

 Maximum plant height (211.3 cm) was obtained in T 6 treatment where
100% recommenced N was applied through urea
 Application of N 50% from urea + 50% from FYM (T 4 ) produced
maximum number of cobs per plant (1.190), more cob length (18.57
cm), maximum cob weight (216.4 g), more number of grains rows per
cob (16.50), more number of grains per row (33.37), maximum grain
weight per cob (134.2 g), maximum 1000-grain weight (279.1 g),
more grain yield (5793 kg/ha) and maximum biological yield (14880
kg/ha).
CONCLUSION
This study suggest that the maize should be fertilized with N 50%
from urea and 50% from FYM to get the maximum yield per hectare
under agro-ecological conditions of Faisalabad.

CHAPTER 6
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Appendix 1 Plant height at harvest (cm) of maize as affected by different
Treatments/
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Replications
R1 189.8 191.2 200.5 207.6 208.4 206.8
R2 186.7 199.8 198.6 198.4 201.2 212.4
R3 188.2 196.5 202.7 211.5 212.6 214.8
Means 188.2 195.8 200.6 205.8 207.4 211.3
TREATMENTS
T1 = Control (No Fertilizer Applied)
T2 = 0 % N from urea + 100 % from N FYM
T4 = 50% N from urea + 50% from N FYM

Appendix 2 Plant population at harvest (m-2) of maize as affected by
Treatments/
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Replications
R1 7 8 7 7 8 8
R2 7 7 8 7 7 7
R3 7 7 7 7 7 7
Means 7.00 7.33 7.33 7.00 7.33 7.33
TREATMENTS

Appendix 3 Number of cobs per plant of maize as affected by different
Treatments/
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Replications
R1 1.00 1.06 1.12 1.13 1.20 1.08
R2 1.02 1.04 1.06 1.27 1.14 1.23
R3 1.01 1.11 1.09 1.17 1.11 1.11
Means 1.010 1.070 1.090 1.190 1.150 1.140
TREATMENTS

Appendix 4 Cob length (cm) of maize as affected by different
Treatments/
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Replications
R1 14.3 14.7 15.3 17.7 18.1 17.2
R2 13.4 15.1 14.8 19.2 17.8 18.1
R3 14.7 13.9 15.7 15.8 16.9 17.9
Means 14.13 14.57 15.27 18.57 17.60 17.73
TREATMENTS

Appendix 5 Cob weight (g) of maize as affected by different
Treatments/
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Replications
R1 186.2 188.9 195.6 209.9 211.7 209.9
R2 188.7 191.7 191.2 221.8 205.9 212.8
R3 194.7 195.7 188.9 217.5 214.2 207.7
Means 189.9 192.1 191.9 216.4 210.6 210.1
TREATMENTS

Appendix 6 Number of grain rows per cob of maize as affected by
Treatments/
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Replications
R1 14.2 14.8 15.4 16.4 15.8 15.8
R2 14.6 15.2 15.2 16.6 16.2 15.8
R3 14.8 15.2 15.4 16.8 16.0 16.0
Means 14.53 15.07 15.33 16.60 16.00 15.87
TREATMENTS

Appendix 7 Number of grains per row of maize as affected by different
Treatments/
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Replications
R1 28.9 29.5 30.1 34.6 31.7 30.1
R2 27.3 30.1 32.1 32.1 32.3 31.2
R3 26.9 29.4 29.8 33.4 29.2 29.5
Means 27.70 29.67 30.67 33.37 31.07 30.27
TREATMENTS

Appendix 8 Grains weight per cob (g) of maize as affected by different
Treatments/
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Replications
R1 120.1 117.1 122.4 135.2 134.1 127.1
R2 122.1 121.2 127.2 134.6 127.1 129.1
R3 115.1 125.1 118.6 132.9 124.5 122.1
Means 119.1 121.1 122.7 134.2 128.6 126.1
TREATMENTS

Appendix 9 1000-Grain weight (g) of maize as affected by different
Treatments/
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Replications
R1 236.41 254.94 266.98 279.11 267.42 269.62
R2 246.52 257.84 260.57 276.32 271.52 272.24
R3 244.21 261.49 264.75 281.84 267.46 268.71
Means 242.4 258.1 264.1 279.1 268.8 270.2
TREATMENTS

Appendix 10 Grain yield (kg ha-1) of maize as affected by different
Treatments/
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Replications
R1 4435 5173 5214 5823 5702 5681
R2 4388 5209 5259 5768 5735 5725
R3 4427 5223 5231 5787 5714 5693
Means 4417.0 5202.0 5235.0 5793.0 5717.0 5700.0
TREATMENTS

Appendix 11 Biological yield (kg ha-1) of maize as affected by different
Treatments/
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Replications
R1 12124 12782 13812 14896 13491 13843
R2 12321 12654 13801 14927 13584 13861
R3 12190 12768 13735 14809 13618 13797
Means 12210.0 12730.0 13780.0 14880.0 13560.0 13830.0
TREATMENTS

EFFECT OF NITROGEN APPLICATION THROUGH DIFFERENT COMBINATIONS OF UREA AND FARM YARD MANURE ON THE PERFORMANCE OF SPRING MAIZE (Zea Mays L.)

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EFFECT OF NITROGEN APPLICATION THROUGH DIFFERENT COMBINATIONS OF UREA AND FARM YARD MANURE ON THE PERFORMANCE OF SPRING MAIZE (Zea Mays L.)

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EFFECT OF NITROGEN APPLICATION THROUGH DIFFERENT

COMBINATIONS OF UREA AND FARM YARD MANURE ON

ATTA ULLAH MOHSIN

MASTER OF SCIENCE (HONS)

forever a torch of guidance and knowledge for the whole mankind.

Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad for his substantial

guidance, continuous inspiration and invaluable assistance in bringing this dissertation

to its present form.

I am greatly thankful to member of my supervisory committee, Dr. Asghar Ali Professor

and Chairman, Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad and Dr.

Atta Muhammad Ranjha professor Institute of Soil and Environmental Science,

University of Agriculture, Faisalabad for their valuable suggestions, constructive

criticism and encouragement throughout my research endvour.

their cooperation as well as for providing me guidance to complete these studies.

Khuram Whose inspiration and best wishes always accompanied me.

night’s calm for my glorious success and academic excellence.

Atta Ullah Mohsin

Chapter Title Page

3 Material and Methods 29

4 Results and Discussion 36

No. TITLE PAGE

1 Chemical analysis of soil 36

2 Chemical analysis of FYM 36

Plant height at harvest (cm) of maize as affected by different

NO. TITLE PAGE

Plant height at harvest (cm) of maize as affected by different

Plant population at harvest (m-2) of maize as affected by different

Average number of cobs per plant of maize as affected by different

Cob length (cm) of maize as affected by different combinations of

Cob weight (g) of maize as affected by different combinations of

Number of grain rows per cob of maize as affected by different

Number of grains per row of maize as affected by different

Grain weight cob-1 (g) of maize as affected by different

1000-grain weight (g) of maize as affected by different

Grain yield (kg ha-1) of maize as affected by different combinations

Biological yield (kg ha-1) of maize as affected by different

Maize is currently widely planted c rop in most countries of the

Pakistan. It is grown twice a year in the country (spring and autumn). It is

3% sugar, 4.8% oil and 1.7% ash (Chudhary, 1993).

Although much efforts have been made to improve its production b y

adopting different agro-techniques and crop breeding programs, yet the

Among yield determining factors, soil fertility is of prime

suffering from a serious problem of nutrient and organic matter

deficiency. Therefore, most often their deficiency in soil results in low

Before the advent of chemical fertilizers, farmers mostly relied on

use of organic matter because chemical fertilizers were an effective

substitute as a ready source of nut rients. The integrated use of organic

positive interaction with chemical fertilizers to increase their efficienc y

and thereby reduce environmental hazards (Ahmad et al., 1996)

Chemical fertilizers being crucial input for improving soil fertility

have become an important component of advanced crop production

Integrated use of chemical fertilizers and organic material may be a

of organic matter and chemical fertilizers is beneficial in improving crop

(Rautaray et al., 2003). Integrated use of organic and inorganic fertilizers

(Satyanarayana et al., 2002). Combined application of inorganic and

organic fertilizer is also reported to decrea se soil bulk density, increased

grain quality (Rong et al., 2001).

the application of other macro-nutrients and micro-nutrients, which are

Organic sources ameliorate the micro-nutrient deficiencies. It has been

suggested that humic acid present in organic matter increase the

permeability of cell membrane, which results in increased uptake of water

increased by utilization of mineral fertilizers as well as organic material