Changes in Yield and Quality Traits of Sweet Corn Influenced by Micronutrient Fertilizers and Method of Their Application

In order to evaluate effects of iron, zinc and manganese, and the methods of applying them on yield and yield components of sweet corn (Zea mays saccharata), an experiment was performed as factorial based on randomized complete block design with four replications at the research farm of Urmia University. Experimental factors were micronutrient fertilizers with four levels (control, iron, zinc and manganese) and micronutrient applying method with two levels (foliar and soil application). Soil application of micronutrients before sowing and foliar application of these elements in two stages (knee Stage and before tasseling stage) were applied. Results indicated that interaction between experimental factors on biological and protein yield and micronutrients use efficiency in grain yield was significant. Also, in micronutrients applying method, foliar application compared to soil application was caused increasing in grain yield, leaf chlorophyll, soluble sugars yield, sugar harvest index and micronutrients use efficiency in sugar yield. Applying three types of micronutrients were increased significantly leaf chlorophyll, grain soluble sugars yield and sugar harvest index compared to control. Grain harvest index was not affected by any of the experimental factors. Based on results, application of micronutrient elements enhance the quality and economic yield of sweet corn and foliar application of micronutrients was showed better results than soil application.