Influence of Tillage and Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Maize: A Review

Abstract

Tillage practices significantly influence maize growth, yield, and soil health by altering the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil. Conventional tillage generally enhances plant height, dry matter accumulation, and leaf area index, with notable benefits for grain yield and biomass production. In contrast, reduced and zero tillage systems improve soil conservation and promote stable production. Ridge and raised bed planting methods often outperform conventional and zero tillage, offering higher yields and better resource use efficiency. Permanent bed planting with residue retention further optimizes maize productivity by improving soil structure and nutrient cycling. Site-Specific Nutrient Management (SSNM) emerges as a vital approach to address nutrient imbalances and enhance fertilizer use efficiency. By tailoring nutrient applications to crop-specific and site-specific needs, SSNM significantly boosts maize growth and yield attributes, including cob length, grain weight, and biological yield. Studies reveal that SSNM outperforms conventional fertilization techniques by improving nutrient recovery rates, reducing environmental impacts, and maximizing economic returns. This review highlights the synergistic effect of tillage and SSNM on maize performance, emphasizing the need for integrated management practices to achieve sustainable agricultural productivity in diverse agro-ecological systems. The findings underscore the potential of these approaches to bridge yield gaps and support resilient cropping systems.