Sustainable availability of nitrogen and phosphorus promoted by polymer coated nitrogenous and phosphatic fertilizers for growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L.)
Abstract
The increasing global population demands more food and shelter, placing significant pressure on the agricultural sector. To meet these needs, higher fertilizer inputs are often required; however, substantial nutrient losses through volatilization, leaching, denitrification, fixation, and runoff limit crop yields and contribute to environmental pollution. Polymer-coated nitrogenous and phosphatic fertilizers have been shown to improve nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) use efficiency due to their slow and controlled nutrient release. In this field trial, the performance of polymer-coated urea and diammonium phosphate (DAP) was evaluated for enhancing maize growth, yield, and N and P use efficiency compared with uncoated fertilizers. Treatments were applied at rates of 180, 135, and 135 kg ha⁻¹ following a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Standard protocols were used to assess various growth and yield parameters. Results indicated that ammonia emissions were notably higher in plots receiving conventional urea, whereas polymer-coated urea significantly reduced emissions. Agronomic traits, particularly grain yield and nutrient uptake, were markedly improved in treatments with polymer-coated urea. The findings suggest that polymer-coated urea is a more efficient nutrient source for maize and can effectively enhance both crop yield and nutrient utilization.
