The efficacy of micronano particles across NPK doses and densities on maize growth and yield in Vietnam

Increasing the efficiency of maize production in Vietnam is a prerequisite for increasing the quantity of maize for animal feed. With a view to reducing nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (NPK) doses for maize production, a two-factor experiment using complex micronano particles across three NPK fertiliser doses and three densities on maize hybrid PAC999 was conducted following a randomized complete block design with plot size of 21.84 m2 , in Binh Dinh province of Vietnam from May to September 2017. Three NPK fertiliser doses (kg/ha) constitute the first factor, as P1: 156 N - 86 P2 O5 - 84 K2 O (100% normal dose); P2: 140 N - 77 P2 O5 - 76 K2 O (90%); and P3: 125 N - 69 P2 O5 - 67 K2 O (80%). Three densities constitute the second factor, as M1: 71,429 plants/ha (100% normal density); M2: 64,935 plants/ha (90%), and M3: 57,143 plants/ha (80%). Nine combinations of M and P were developed into nine treatments; the control involved spraying with water rather than nano foliar fertiliser. Nano particles were applied as a foliar fertiliser solution at 20 days after sowing with 300 litres/ha, 30 days after sowing with 500 litres/ha, and 40 days after sowing with 700 litres/ha.