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VOL. 7, ISSUE 4 (2025)
Physiological disruptions in maize (Zea mays L.) from indiscriminate nitrogen fertilization: A Review
Authors
Chavan Syam Raj Naik, Himakara Datta M, CVCM Reddy
Abstract
Nitrogen (N) is an indispensable nutrient for maize (Zea mays
L.) production. However, its indiscriminate application beyond physiological
requirements represents a central paradox in modern agriculture, posing
significant threats to both productivity and environmental sustainability. The
review examines the effects of excess nitrogen on root and shoot morphophysiology,
developmental phenology, yield components, and, most critically, Nitrogen Use
Efficiency (NUE). Supra-optimal N supply disrupts the hormonal balance,
particularly the auxin-cytokinin axis, leading to inhibited root system
development and an unfavourably high shoot-to-root ratio, making the plant
prone to lodging. The yield response to N follows a law of diminishing returns,
with rates beyond the optimum causing yield stagnation or decline due to
source-sink imbalances and physical limitations. Concurrently, NUE declines
quickly with increasing N rates. The concept of incremental NUE (iNUE) is
critically examined, revealing the profound inefficiency of marginal N
applications near the economic optimum, where over 90% of the applied N may be
lost or unutilized for grain production. These disruptions are underpinned by
the plant's perception of N excess as a metabolic stress, triggering widespread
changes in gene expression. This underscores the urgent need for a paradigm
shift from N-surplus to N-synchrony management strategies. Future research
should focus on elucidating the genetic basis of N tolerance, understanding the
molecular drivers of iNUE, and developing dynamic, sensor-based N management
systems. The implications for agricultural practice and policy are clear:
enhancing the sustainability of maize production hinges on recalibrating
nitrogen (N) inputs to align with actual crop demand, thereby improving
profitability while safeguarding environmental health.
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Pages:81-87
How to cite this article:
Chavan Syam Raj Naik, Himakara Datta M, CVCM Reddy "Physiological disruptions in maize (<i>Zea mays</i> <i>L.</i>) from indiscriminate nitrogen fertilization: A Review". International Journal of Agriculture and Plant Science, Vol 7, Issue 4, 2025, Pages 81-87
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