RESPONSE OF MAIZE TO PLANTING METHODS AND FERTILIZER N

A field experiment was conducted at Malakandher Research Farm, NWFP Agricultural University, Peshawar, Pakistan to study the response of maize to planting methods and fertilizer N levels during spring 2004. Two planting methods (ridge and flat) and five levels of nitrogen (0, 80, 120, 160, and 200kg N ha-1) were applied. The experiment was laid out in well prepared field using RCBD design with split arrangement having four replications. Sowing methods were allotted to main plots while nitrogen levels were allotted to split-plots. Days to 50 % tasseling and silking were significantly affected by planting methods and nitrogen levels. Maximum days to 50 % tasseling and 50 % silking were recorded in the treatment of 200kg N ha-1 when compared with other treatments. Maximum number of leaves plant-1, number of cobs plant-1, number of grains cobs-1, taller plants, grain and biological yield was recorded in ridge planting and application of 200kg N ha-1 when compared with other treatments. It can be concluded from these results that ridge planting method and fertilizer N at the rate of 200kg ha-1 produced economical crop of maize under climatic conditions of Peshawar valley