A review on integrated nutrient management (INM) approach for maize
Soil fertility maintenance requires a balanced application of inorganic and organic nutrient sources. Maize popularly as known as "Corn" is one of the most versatile emerging cash crops having wider adaptability under varied climatic conditions. It is called queen of cereals globally. In India, maize or corn is the third most important food cash crop after wheat and rice. The maize is grown throughout the year in all the states of country for various purposes. Sustainable agricultural productivity might be achieved through a wise use of integrated nutrient management. Integrated use of chemical and organic fertilizer on yield and yield components of maize is very crucial for assurance of food security. Integrated nutrient supply/management (INS) aims at maintenance or adjustment of soil fertility and plant nutrient supply to an optimum level for sustaining the desired crop productivity through optimization of benefit from all possible sources of plant nutrients in an integrated manner which includes; Maintain or enhance soil productivity through a balanced use of fertilizers combined with organic and biological sources of plant nutrients. Different kinds of organic materials such as FYM, bio compost, vermicompost, animal manures, green manures, crop residues, composts, and industrial wastes have been used in maize systems. This paper has reviewed the research work carried out by various scientists in India and abroad.