Abiotic factors (nitrogen and water) in maize: A review

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most versatile cereal crops having wider adaptability under varied agro-climatic conditions. Nitrogen and water are the main abiotic factors that limit the yield of maize worldwide. The formulation of nitrogen and water management practices is needed to ensure food productivity for the increasing world population and to address the growing concerns regarding the adverse environmental impacts of agricultural activities. Hence, considering the overall performance in terms of growth, yield and economic returns, it is concluded that with 250 kg N ha⁻¹ and irrigation at 0.80 IW/CPE ratio can be recommended under irrigated condition to get higher productivity and benefit cost ratio of maize. In future need to studies that distinguish between biotic and abiotic stress in maize involving spectral remote sensing for vital information required both for the quantification of consequences on production and for taking action for their mitigation.