Grain yield and cation uptake of selected corn (Zea mays L.) varieties under saline soil with supplemental potassium fertilization.

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted in saline soil to determine the effect of soil salinity and potassium (K) application on the uptake of different bases (Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), Sodium (Na)) in selected corn (Zea mays L.) varieties. The experiment was laid out in RCBD with variety as mainplot and fertilizer rate as subplot. Soil salinity severely affected the performance of the three varieties. However, the application of additional K improved their agronomic characteristics which resulted to increase in yield. IPB Var 11 showed better performance compared to the other varieties tested. Cation concentration in corn stover and grains of the varieties planted in saline soil were significantly affected by application of additional K. Total Ca, Mg, Na uptake was reduced while K uptake was increased with the supplemental application of K. The increase in availability of K in soil due to supplementation with K affected the interaction between the different nutrient cations. Ca:Mg ratio, Ca:K ratio, Mg:K ratio was reduced due to increase in total potassium uptake. Na:K ratio of IPB Var. 11 was lower compared to the other varieties in all fertilizer levels which explain its inherent characteristic to be saline tolerant. Proper nutrient management like application of additional K coupled with proper choice of variety can alleviate the adverse effect of soil salinity in corn production.