Balanced Nutrition for Enhancing the Productivity and Sustainability of Maize (Zea mays L.) under Rainfed Condition in Rajasthan

A field experiment was conducted during 2006–2008, to assess the response of rainfed maze to various limiting nutrients to with regard yield response, plant nutrition, profitability, and rainwater use efficiency under multinutrient deficient conditions. Maize grain yield (2570 kg/ha) was significantly increased with balanced nutrition involving 25% higher dose of N with recommended dose of P and Zn. The treatment increased the maize grain and stover yield by 43.5 and 37.2%, respectively over control. Application of 25% higher N along with P and Zn gave higher net return ( 32493/ha), benefit: cost ratio (3.53) and rainwater use efficiency (5.3 kg/ha/mm) and than other treatments. Balanced nutrition significantly increased the uptake of N, P, K, Mg, Zn and B in the crop and also improved soil fertility compared to other treatments.