Nitrogen Deficiency - Maize

Symptom description

Affected plants show spindly, sparse growth. On the older leaves, V-shaped yellowing on the leaf tips progresses towards the base, so that leaves finally turn uniformly pale green/yellow. Stalks get a reddish discoloration. The oldest leaves on the bottom become necrotic.

Made worst by

Low or high pH soils. Sandy or light soils (leaching.) Low organic matter. Drought conditions. High rainfall (leaching) or heavy irrigation. Addition or high levels of non-decomposed organic matter/manure (eg straw). Fast growing crops.

Important for

Lusher, greener growth. Increased yields and grain quality. Better cob formation and production.

Cause description

Nitrogen deficiency Sulphur deficiency can cause similar chloroses but starts on the younger leaves, whereas paling due to N deficiency is detectable on older leaves first.

Yara recommends

YaraVita CROPLIFT PRO

Maize: 2.5 to 5 kg/ha. Repeat at 10 to 14 day intervals as necessary. Avoid applications during flowering. Water rate: 200 l/ha.

YaraVita SAFE-N 300

Maize: 10 to 20 l/ha at the 4 to 6 leaf stage, 10 to 14 days later and at the pre-tassel stage. Water rate: 200 l/ha.