Evaluation of the effects of plant density and nitrogen fertilizer on dry matter accumulation trend, yield and some rphologicalcharacteristics in corn (Zea mays L.)

In order to investigate the effects of plant density and nitrogen fertilizer factors on dry matter accumulation trend, yield and some morphological traits of corn, a split plot experiment based on randomized complete block design with three replications was conducted in Ardabil Agriculture Research Station in 2009. Factors were; nitrogen levels in main plots (0, 75 and 150 Kg N ha-1) and plant densities in sub plots (7, 9 and 11 plants m-2). The results showed that grain yield significantly was affected by plant density and nitrogen levels at 1% level probability. Grain yield increased with increase in plant density and nitrogen levels. The highest and lowest grain yields were obtained with application of 150 kg N ha-1 and control, respectively. Also with increasing nitrogen levels, plant height, number of rows per ear, number of grains per row, number of grains per ear, length and diameter of ear, cob circumference, and total dry matter significantly increased. All characteristics mentioned above, except plant height and the number of rows per ear significantly decreased with the increase of plant density. But, cob circumference, weight of 1000 grains, number of rows per ear, and height of first ear from ground, were not affected by nitrogen levels. Height of first ear from ground, cob circumference, weight ratio of grain to cob and weight of 1000 grains were not affected by plant density. Thus, to achieve high yield and traits positively affected that use of 150 kg N ha-1 × 11 plant m-2 is recommended.

Keywords:

Corn , dry matter accumulation , morphology , nitrogen fertilizer , plant density , yield and yield components