Effect of water conditions and nitrogen application on maize growth, carbon accumulation and metabolism of maize plant in subtropical regions

Drought, water, and nitrogen (N) losses have always been great challenges for agricultural production in subtropical regions of China. To study appropriate irrigation regimes reasonable N applications, a field experiment was conducted summer maize (Zea mays L.) from 2018 to 2019. Two treatments, namely, rain-fed supplementary irrigation, were designed, five levels fertilizer applied. The differences the growth periods biomass, leaf area index, agronomic traits, carbon accumulation, metabolism enzyme activity measured. Findings revealed that interaction water has significant impact on growth. Compared other N250 produced significantly higher activity. In 2018, traits index than Meanwhile, additional could help improve index. Further correlation analysis accumulation positively correlated with activity, although lower at maturity flowering period. Overall, findings suggest conjunction treatment is worthwhile measure sustainable