Tillage Operations and Fertilizer Applications on the Growth and Yield Response of Sweet Corn (Zea mays L. var. Saccharata)

Abstract

Sweet corn (Zea mays var. saccharata) has become an increasingly important crop in the Philippines due to its nutritional value and market demand. This study investigated the effects of different tillage operations and fertilizer applications on the growth and yield of sweet corn and assess the agricultural practices and challenges faced by sweet corn farmers in the region. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was employed, with four treatments: zero tillage with urea, zero tillage with vermicompost, conventional tillage with urea, and conventional tillage with vermicompost. Data were gathered on germination index, plant height, ear length, ear diameter, and ear weight, with statistical analysis conducted using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Pearson’s correlation.  Findings revealed that plant height was significantly greater in conventional tillage with vermicompost with a mean of 197.6cm. Ear weight was significantly affected by the treatment, with conventional tillage with urea yielding the highest mean weight of 14.21 kg. Return on investment was highest for conventional tillage with vermicompost at 83.6%, offering substantial profitability.