Effect of Different Nitrogen Fertilizer Rates and Plant Density on Growth of Water Efficient Maize Variety under Different Field Conditions

Background: In most areas where maize is planted, the growth is usually affected by low nitrogen and high plant density. An experiment was carried out during the 2015/16 and 2016/17 planting seasons to investigate the effect of different nitrogen fertilizer rates and plant densities on growth of water efficient maize under different field conditions.Methods: The experiment was laid out in split plot arrangement fitted into randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replicates. Measured growth parameters were plant height, chlorophyll content, leaf area, number of leaves and stem diameter.Result: Maize planted at Molelwane had tallest plant height (269.63 cm) than Taung. Maize sown at 33,333 plants/ha produced highest number of leaves (15.83) and highest chlorophyll content (59. 63 SPAD - units) was obtained in the plots fertilized with 240 kg N/ha. In this study,the plant density of 55,555 plants/ha and 240 kg N/ha can be recommended for cultivation of WEMA maize variety.