DefinePK

Research Objective

To investigate the effects of neem-coated granular urea on nitrogen volatilization and leaching in maize, focusing on nutrient availability (NO3-N and NH4-N) in both normal and saline soils, and to assess its impact on maize growth performance.

Methodology

A pot experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications in a glass-panelled wire house. Treatments included a control, various concentrations of neem-coated granular urea (0.05%, 0.08%, 0.01%) with recommended phosphorus and potassium, and a recommended NPK treatment. Soil samples were analyzed for key chemical components. Plant parameters measured included shoot and root length, fresh and dry weight, membrane stability index (MSI), chlorophyll content, and nutrient concentrations (N, P, K). Soil nitrate and ammonium levels were also analyzed. Data analysis was performed using ANOVA and Duncan's multiple range test.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A[Pot Experiment Setup] --> B[Application of Treatments: Control, NCU concentrations, Recommended NPK];
    B --> C[Soil Sampling];
    C --> D[Analysis of Soil Chemical Components];
    B --> E[Plant Growth Measurement];
    E --> F[Analysis of Plant Parameters: Shoot/Root Length, Weight, MSI, Chlorophyll];
    E --> G[Analysis of Plant Nutrient Content: N, P, K];
    D --> H[Data Analysis: ANOVA, Duncan's Test];
    F --> H;
    G --> H;
    H --> I[Interpretation of Results];
    I --> J[Conclusion];                    

Discussion

The study suggests that neem-coated urea (NCU), particularly at 0.08% concentration, provides a more sustained release of nitrogen, reducing losses from volatilization and leaching. This improved nitrogen availability leads to enhanced shoot and root growth, better membrane stability, and increased chlorophyll content, which are crucial for mitigating salt stress. NCU also improved potassium and phosphorus uptake, contributing to overall plant health and productivity. The 0.08% concentration appears to offer the optimal balance for sustained nutrient release and efficiency.

Key Findings

Treatment T3 (0.08% neem-coated urea) significantly enhanced maize growth and nutrient uptake in both normal and saline soils. This treatment resulted in substantial increases in shoot length (34.32%), fresh weight (50.48%), and dry weight (22.40%). Root growth also showed notable improvements. T3 treatment increased membrane stability index (MSI) by 21.32%, chlorophyll content by 22.13%, and nitrate retention by 17.29% compared to the control. It also enhanced potassium content, phosphorus absorption, and nitrogen concentration in maize stalks.

Conclusion

Neem-coated urea, especially at a 0.08% concentration, significantly improves maize growth and nutrient uptake in both normal and saline soil conditions. It offers a sustainable alternative to conventional urea by minimizing nitrogen losses, enhancing plant resilience to salinity stress, and increasing crop productivity.

Fact Check

1. Treatment T3 (0.08% neem-coated urea) increased shoot length by 34.32%: The text states "there was an increase of 34.32 % in shoot length" for T3.
2. T3 treatment increased MSI by 21.32%: The text states "the T3 treatment increased the plant membrane stability index (MSI)... by 21.32 %".
3. T3 treatment increased chlorophyll content by 22.13%: The text states "the T3 treatment increased... chlorophyll content... by 22.13 %".

Mind Map