Maize (Zea mays L.) Productivity as Influenced by Lignite and Fertiliser Combinations in Southern India

Abstract

Background and Aims: Maize (Zea mays L.) is a nutrient-demanding cereal crop whose productivity depends on balanced and efficient nutrient management. The integration of inorganic fertilisers with organic and biological inputs may improve nutrient availability, soil conditions and crop performance. This study evaluated the influence of lignite, fertilisers and microbial consortia on the productivity and profitability of kharif maize under semi-arid conditions in Southern India. Study Design, Place and Methodology: A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2025–26 at the College Farm, School of Agricultural Sciences, Malla Reddy University, Hyderabad, Telangana. The experiment was laid out in a randomised block design with eight treatments and three replications. The treatments included control, farmyard manure, lignite, microbial consortia, 75% or 100% recommended dose of fertilisers and their combinations. Growth parameters, yield attributes, yield and economic returns were recorded, and the data were analysed statistically. Results: Integrated nutrient management significantly affected maize growth and yield. Treatment T₅ (100% RDF + lignite @ 2 t ha⁻¹ + microbial consortia @ 35 kg ha⁻¹) recorded the highest plant height, leaf area, dry matter accumulation, cob length, cob girth, grain yield, stover yield and total biological yield. Treatments T₃ and T₄ also performed better than the control. Conclusion: The combined application of 100% RDF, lignite and microbial consortia improved maize productivity under the experimental conditions.