Potassium, Boron, Nitrogen, and Lime Effects on Corn Yield and Earleaf Nutrient Concentrations¹

Abstract

Abstract Intensified production practices have included irrigation and higher‐than‐traditional rates of N and K to reach high yield goals for corn ( Zea mays L.). Previous studies have shown that B is low in southeastern Coastal Plain soils and that additions of high rates of N, K, and lime to soils low in B may decrease B availability. This 3‐yr factorial experiment was conducted on a Dothan loamy sand (Plinthic Paleudults) to examine the effects and interactions of B, K, N, and lime on corn yield and earleaf nutrient concentrations with the objective of better defining B needs of intensive corn production. Two levels of B (0 and 2.24 kg ha −1 ), K (131 and 317 kg ha −1 ), N (202 and 426 kg ha −1 ), and lime (0 and 1120 kg ha −1 ) were employed. Corn yields showed a positive response to N in 1982, a negative response to lime in 1983, and no response to individual factors in 1984. There was a trend in 1982 and 1984 toward less yield (average 18.2% less) where high K was added with no B, compared to where low K was added with no B. There was a significant B ✕ K interaction effect (P≤0.05) on yield in 1984, and the same effect (P≤0.01) appeared for the 3‐yr combined analysis of variance. Earleaf B was influenced by N ✕ B interaction in 1982 and lime ✕ K interaction in 1984. The results showed that B fertilization was necessary to prevent yield reduction where high K fertilization was used.