An Optimized Nitrogen Application Rate and Basal Topdressing Ratio Improves Yield, Quality, and Water- and N-use Efficiencies for Forage Maize (Zea mays L.)

Applying nitrogen (N) fertilizer at irrational rates and basal topdressing ratios typically leads to high resource wastage serious environmental pollution is a global problem. A pot experiment was conducted between 2020 2021 investigate the effects of different N application on growth, yield, quality, water- N- use efficiencies forage maize. Four treatments were used, with following levels: 0 kg/ha (N0), 70 (N70), 140 (N140), 210 (N210); two tested, namely: 2:8 4:6. An increased rate, from 200 kg/ha, whole fresh dry yields. fertilization crude protein (CP) content plant parts (stems, leaves, ears), as well level, but decreased neutral acid detergent fiber content. The matter water efficiency (WUEDM) increased, while partial-factor productivity applied an increasing rate. Compared N0, 2-year average yield under N70, N140, N210 by 21.8%, 27.6%, 38.2%, respectively, WUEDM 19.1%, 28.7%, 45.0%, respectively. At ratio, CP content, recovery all higher harvest compared 4:6 ratio during normal rainfall years, both lower years. In conclusion, year, rate sowing jointing stages, considered optimal strategy improve maize production in semi-arid areas Chinese Loess Plateau.