Effects of zinc on the growth and yield of maize (Zea mays l.) cultivated in a tropical acid soil using different application techniques

In Malaysia, the application of micronutrients fertiliser is not a standard practise although several previous studies have indicated that the procedure contributes to a major impact on plant growth and development. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of the concentration and application of zinc (Zn) on maize growth and yield. There were nine treatments including; no fertiliser applied as control (T0), NPK 16:16:16 only (T1), NPK + 5kg/ha Zn (T2), NPK + 10kg/ha Zn (T3), NPK + 15kg/ha Zn (T4), NPK + foliar Zn (T5), NPK + 5kg/ha Zn + foliar Zn (T6), NPK + 10kg/ha Zn + foliar Zn (T7), NPK + 15kg/ha Zn + foliar Zn (T8). Plant height was recorded during 30, 45 and 60 days of plant ages. Maize ear length, diameter and numbers of kernel’s row were recorded on harvesting day (100 days). The findings suggest a significant difference in maize ear length, diameter and kernel row at p