Architecture and Morphology of Water Efficient Maize Root as Influenced by Plant Density and Nitrogen Fertilizer Rates

Introduction

Root growth form influence nutrient uptake with corresponding impact on crop growth and yield particularly in Arid regions. Information is scarce on root architecture and morphology of Water Efficient Maize (WEMA). This study investigated the effect of different plant density and nitrogen fertilizer rates on root architecture and morphology of Water Efficient Maize variety grown in two locations.

Materials and Methods

The experiment was conducted in North-West University Research Farm (NWRF, 25⁰ 48¹S, 45⁰ 38¹ E.; 1,012 m asl) and Agriculture Experimental Station (AES, 27⁰ 30¹S, 24⁰ 30¹E; 1,111 m asl) Taung, South Africa. The experiment laid out in split–split plot was fitted into a RCBD with four replications. The main, sub-plot and sub-subplot effects were two locations (AES and NWRF), plant density (33333, 44444 and 55555 plants/ha) and nitrogen rates (0, 60, 120, 180 and 240 N kg/ha), respectively. Data were collected on root traits including architecture (brace and crown angles) and morphology (root mass and length) following standard procedure. Data were analysed with ANOVA and different means separated with LSD at p≤0.05.

Results and Discussion

Brace angle (48.69°), crown angle (63.21°) and root length (44.95 cm) were significantly higher in AES while NWRF had higher root mass (63.00 g). Plots with 55555 plants had significantly highest brace angle (47.33°) while plant density had not significant effect on crown angle. Plots with 33333 plants had significantly highest root length (43.21 cm) and mass (66.48 cm). Highest brace angle (48.69°) and root length (43.84 cm) were recorded in plots fertilized with 60 kg N/ha. Similarly, crown angle was significantly highest (61.60°) in the control plots while plots that received 240 kg N/ha had significantly highest root mass (67.15g).

Conclusion

Water efficient Maize variety root has deep and steep crown and elongated root that could enhance effective acquisition of nutrients and water.