The effect of foliar micronutrient fertilization on yield and nutritional quality of maize grain
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.
Zea mays L.; nutrients; yield components; yield; total carotene; color parameters

