1392
The effect of foliar micronutrient fertilization on yield and nutritional quality of maize grain
W. Jarecki; I. M. Borza; C. A. Rosan; C. G. Domușa; S. I. Vicas
Original research article
Field experiment
Corn
Boron
Copper
Iron
Manganese
Molybdenum
Zinc
View source document
year
2025
Country
Poland
Abstract

Foliar fertilization is an effective practice that improves both the yield and quality of maize, a crop with high and specific micronutrient demands. This study hypothesized that foliar application of Fe, Cu, Mn, Mo, Zn and B would improve grain size and quality in GS210 maize compared to the control. The single-factor field experiment was conducted in 2023–2024 on Haplic Cambisol (Eutric) soil, under a variety of meteorological conditions. The application of Zn and B fertilizers significantly increased the soil plant analysis development (SPAD) index. Yield components (number of grains per ear, thousand-grain weight) and grain yield increased significantly following Zn foliar application compared to the control. Zn application increased grain yield by 0.59 t ha-1 and 0.49 t ha-1 in 2023 and 2024, respectively. Smaller but beneficial effects were observed with Cu and B applications. In contrast, the effects of fertilization with other micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Mo) were less pronounced than anticipated. Biochemical analyses revealed that foliar fertilization with Fe, Cu and Mo increased total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity, while Fe and Mo enhanced carotenoid accumulation, and Cu and B significantly influenced grain color parameters. The study highlights the potential of foliar fertilization to improve maize performance and grain quality, despite possible antagonisms between micronutrients.

Keywords

Zea mays L.; nutrients; yield components; yield; total carotene; color parameters

Outcomes reported
Crop quality
Soil properties
Nutrient uptake
Physiological
Soil properties
Yield
Synthesis
Key insight
In this Polish field trial, foliar zinc produced the clearest maize grain-yield gain, while copper and boron gave smaller benefits and several micronutrients altered grain-quality traits.
Limitations
Single-site, two-year trial on one hybrid and one fertilizer product per micronutrient limits broader generalization across environments and formulations.
Welland | Ontario | Canada‍
© 2024 VISTA Science & Technology. All right reserved.
Open Modal

Contact us

General Inquiries

For general inquiries, including partnership opportunities:
905 650 3857
info@vistast.com

Follow us

close modal