The Interaction Effects of Vermicompost and Partial Root Zone Drying on Water Consumption, Macro and Micro Nutrients of Maize

In order to reduce water and chemical fertilizer consumption and improved nutrient uptake in a maize field in Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University this research were carried out during years 2015 to 2016. Main plot consisted of irrigation treatment (Full irrigation (FI), deficit irrigation (DI) and partial root zone drying irrigation (PRD)). Sub plot consisted of fertilizer treatment (chemical fertilizer (T1), 50% chemical fertilizer 5.5 tons per ha of vermicompost (T2) and 11 tons per ha of vermicompost (T3)). The result showed that the simultaneous application of PRD and vermicompost save more water. The effect of irrigation treatment on N, P, K, Fe, Zn and Mn was significant but no significant on Cu. The effect of fertilizer treatment on N, P, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn was significant but no significant on K. There was no significant effect between PRD and T2 treatment with FI and T2 treatment on concentrations of nutrients and yield. Therefore, simultaneous use of partial root zone drying with vermicompost in combination with chemical fertilizers is recommended to achieve sustainable agriculture.