Influence of Spacing and Graded Levels of NPK on Yield and Protein Content of Quality Protein Maize (Zea mays L.)

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2010 under irrigated condition on red sandy loam soil to study the influence of spacing and graded levels of NPK on yield and protein content of Quality Protein Maizeat Zonal Agricultural Research Station, Visweshwaraiah Canal Farm, Mandya. The result indicated that, the maize yield was higher in closer spacing of 45 cm 30 cm (4921 kg ha-1) compared to wider spacing of 60 cm 30 cm (4556 kg ha-1). Among different nutrient levels 125 % RDN recorded significantly higher grain yield (5143 kg ha-1) it was on par with 100 % RDN (4829 kg ha-1) and 150 % RDN (5087.93 kg). Whereas75 % RDN recorded lower grain yield (3893.49 kg). Significantly higher B: C ratio was recorded with nutrient level of 125 % RDN (2.12) which was on par with 100 % RDN (2.11) and 150 % RDN (1.93). Whereas 75 % RDN recorded lowerB: C ratio (1.85). Significantly higher netreturn (Rs.40086 ha-1) was recorded with T3 (45 x 30 cm +125 % RDN) treatment, followed by T4 (45 cm x 30 cm + 150 % RDN) Rs.38770 ha-1and T2 (45 cm x 30 cm + 100 % RDN) Rs.37305 ha-1. Significantly lower net return was recorded with T5 (60 x 30 cm + 75 % RDN) treatment, Rs. (25163). With increase in nutrient dose from 100 % RDN to 125 % RDN, the grainyield was increased by seven per cent. The highest protein content was recorded with 125 % RDN (11.24 %) which was on par with 150 % RDN (11.09 %). Protein content increased up to nine per cent. Significantly lower protein content was recorded with 75 % RDN (9.91 %). The interaction of 125 % RDN along with wider spacing of 60 cm x 30 cm recorded the highest mineral content (1.53 g) in grain.