Analise do crescimento vegetativo do milho em resposta a diferentes doses de sulfato de amônio

Abstract

This study evaluated corn vegetative growth in response to different ammonium sulfate rates to identify the most efficient fertilization strategy. The experiment was conducted at Guaribas Farm, Areia, Paraíba. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design (RBD) with four replicates, and six nitrogen rates (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 kg ha−1). Growth assessments were performed 30 and 45 days after sowing, applied at the V3-V4 and V7-V8 stages, using Pioneer P4285VYHR corn. Development parameters such as plant height, leaf length, stem diameter, leaf width, and leaf number, chlorophyll A and B content, and foliar nitrogen nutrition were analyzed in two areas with distinct soil conditions. The results demonstrated that the nitrogen provided by ammonium sulfate had a positive effect on corn growth, promoting a significant increase in plant height, chlorophyll content, and foliar nitrogen concentration. Doses above 150 kg ha−1 did not provide significant additional gains, indicating that this dose maximizes physiological and agronomic performance. It was also observed that the response varied between the experimental areas, such that in Area 1, the crop required higher doses to achieve its productive potential, while in Area 2, with greater nutrient retention, lower doses ensured efficient nitrogen use. These results demonstrate that nitrogen fertilization management should consider not only the dose and timing of application, but also the soil's physical and chemical characteristics. This highlights the importance of soil analysis as an essential tool for guiding sustainable and economically viable practices in corn cultivation. Furthermore, the research reinforces the importance of rational use of fertilizers to reduce production costs, mitigate environmental impacts, and increase nitrogen use efficiency, contributing to more productive and resilient agricultural systems.