Effect of Nitrogen and Sulfur on Maize Hybrids Yield and Post- Harvest Soil Nitrogen and Sulfur

Balanced nutrition is imperative for efficient nutrient management and has considerable role in enhancing crop yield. To study the effect of nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) on maize hybrids, field experiments were laid out at the Agronomy Research Farm, the University of Agriculture Peshawar, Pakistan during 2013 and 2014, respectively. Nitrogen (0, 250, 300, 350 kg ha^-1) and Sulfur (0, 20, 40, 60 kg ha^-1) in main plots, whereas maize hybrids (R-3305, R-2210, R-2207) in subplots, were replicated thrice in randomized complete block design with split plot arrangement. Maximum biological yield, grain yield and harvest index were recorded with 350 kg N ha^-1. Among studied maize hybrids, R-2210 achieved more biological yield, grain yield and harvest index than R-3305 and R-2207. Maximum net income and benefit cost ratio (BCR) were recorded in plots with 350 kg N and 40 kg S ha^-1 for R-2210. Nitrogen and sulfur content in soil and tissue were substantially increased with application of both the nutrients. However, sulfur content in plant tissue did not vary with increasing N from 250 to 350 kg ha^-1, but was considerably improved with respect to control. It is concluded that R-2210 produced maximum yield, BCR value and N content in tissue with 350 kg N ha^-1, however S content in soil and in tissue was more with 40 kg S ha^-1. Hence, it is recommended that 350 kg N ha^-1, and R-2210 should be used for optimum grain yield and economic benefits.