Impact of Soil-Applied Zinc Levels on Growth and Productivity of Maize in Hafizabad Region

Abstract

Maize is a principal cereal crop widely grown in Pakistan, yet its output is inhibited by micronutrient deficiencies, principally zinc (Zn). This study investigated the effect of soil-applied zinc on growth and yield of maize variety Shehnshaw under the agro-climatic conditions of Hafizabad, Punjab. Treatments consisted of different zinc levels, with growth, phenological, and yield traits recorded during the crop cycle. Results showed that zinc application significantly reduced the duration to 50% tasseling and silking, indicating accelerated reproductive development. Plant height, leaf area index, and biomass accumulation improved progressively with zinc fertilization. Yield-related traits, including cob number, length and diameter, per cob grains and 1000-grain weight, also increased markedly with zinc application. Consequently, harvest index was improved, reflecting better partitioning of assimilates to economic yield. The results highlight the importance of zinc fertilization for optimizing maize performance in zinc-deficient soils. These findings provide strong evidence for adopting zinc supplementation as an agronomic strategy to enhance maize yield and ensure food security in Pakistan.