Maize Grain Quality as Influenced by Chemical, Organic and Natural Farming Systems in an Acid Hill Soil of North-Western Himalayas

An understanding of nutritional quality response to different nutrient management practices is important to counter the widespread deficiencies of nutrients among humans. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of chemical fertilizers, lime, organic farming and natural farming practices on the yield and quality of maize (Zea mays L.) The experiment consisted of 11 treatments viz., 100% NPK, 100% NPK+FYM (Farmyard manure), 100% NPK + lime, organic farming practices, NFS (Natural Farming System)-Desi cow; NFS-Crossbred cow, NFSbuffalo, organic farming practices + 25% NPK, NFS-Desi cow + 25% NPK, NFS-Crossbred cow + 25% NPK, NFS-buffalo + 25% NPK) The 100% NPK+ FYM @ 10 t ha⁻¹ recorded highest maize grain equivalent yield (42.25 q ha⁻¹), reducing sugars (1.01%), non-reducing sugars(0.64%), crude protein (9.88%) and ash content (1.34%). Organic farming recorded highest total carbohydrate (72.65%) as well as starch content (68.68%). The calcium content in maize grains was highest in 100% NPK+ lime, whereas, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc and iron content were highest in 100% NPK+ FYM. The study concluded that higher crop yield and better nutritional quality can be achieved with a balanced application of NPK fertilizers along with FYM and lime, and organic manures plays a significant role in enhancing carbohydrate and starch content of maize grains.