Maize Nutrition Mastery Quiz Quiz

Boost your understanding of effective maize nutrient management with these essential multiple-choice questions. Explore key principles that ensure healthy maize growth and improved yields.

1. Optimal Nitrogen Application Timing

   At which maize growth stage is applying nitrogen fertilizer most beneficial for maximizing yield?

   1. During grain filling
   2. After tasseling
   3. At the six-leaf stage (V6)
   4. During seed planting

   Explanation: Applying nitrogen at the six-leaf stage supports vegetative growth and prepares maize for high yield potential. During seed planting provides limited early benefit and risks losses. After tasseling and during grain filling are too late, as most nitrogen uptake has already occurred by then.

2. Soil pH for Maize Growth

   What is the ideal soil pH range for optimal maize nutrient availability?

   1. 6.0 to 7.0
   2. 5.5 to 6.0
   3. 4.5 to 5.0
   4. 7.5 to 8.5

   Explanation: A pH of 6.0 to 7.0 allows for the best nutrient uptake and availability for maize. Lower ranges like 4.5 to 5.0 and 5.5 to 6.0 can restrict nutrient access, while 7.5 to 8.5 may cause micronutrient deficiencies.

3. Identifying Potassium Deficiency

   A maize farmer notices yellowing and scorching along the leaf edges; which nutrient deficiency does this suggest?

   1. Calcium
   2. Phosphorus
   3. Nitrogen
   4. Potassium

   Explanation: Potassium deficiency often shows up as yellowing or scorching on leaf margins. Nitrogen deficiency typically causes uniform yellowing from the leaf tip, phosphorus appears as dark green or purpling, and calcium affects new growth rather than leaf edges.

4. Importance of Phosphorus Fertilization

   Why is phosphorus particularly important during early maize development?

   1. It prevents lodging by strengthening stems.
   2. It supports rapid root growth and seedling establishment.
   3. It controls pest attacks.
   4. It increases leaf color intensity.

   Explanation: Phosphorus is critical for root development and helps seedlings become established. While healthy roots can reduce lodging, phosphorus does not directly strengthen stems, affect leaf color, or control pests.

5. Role of Micronutrients in Maize

   Which micronutrient is essential in very small quantities for healthy maize growth and is linked to pollination and grain formation?

   1. Potassium
   2. Calcium
   3. Sulfur
   4. Zinc

   Explanation: Zinc is a vital micronutrient needed in trace amounts for proper maize pollination and grain development. Calcium and sulfur are essential but are classified as secondary macronutrients, while potassium is a primary macronutrient.