Field Crop 2024, Vol.7, No.4, 222-231 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/fc 228 50% RDF through farmyard manure (FYM) and foliar application of iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) significantly improved the grain quality, including higher crude protein, starch, Fe, and Zn content (Augustine and Imayavaramban, 2021; Rajendran and Veeramani, 2022). Additionally, the use of bio-waste compost in combination with mineral fertilizers has been found to elevate the concentration of essential minerals such as iron and manganese in maize grains, thereby enhancing their nutritional quality (Zerssa et al., 2023). These findings underscore the importance of integrating organic and inorganic fertilizers to achieve biofortification and improve the nutritional profile of maize. 6.2 Precision agriculture and its role in fertilizer application Precision agriculture offers a transformative approach to fertilizer application, ensuring that nutrients are supplied in the right amounts, at the right time, and in the right place. This method not only optimizes fertilizer use but also minimizes environmental impacts. The use of nano-fertilizers, for example, has been shown to enhance nutrient use efficiency and improve the nutritional quality of maize. A study demonstrated that applying 50% of the recommended nitrogen dose (RDN) through urea, along with dual foliar sprays of nano-urea, achieved comparable productivity to the 100% RDN through urea alone, while also enhancing protein content and reducing fiber fractions in maize (Kashyap et al., 2023). Precision agriculture techniques, such as soil testing and targeted nutrient management, can further refine fertilizer application, ensuring that maize receives the optimal nutrient mix for maximum growth and nutritional value (Bamboriya et al., 2023). 6.3 Potential for integrated nutrient management systems Integrated nutrient management (INM) systems, which combine the use of organic and inorganic fertilizers, hold significant potential for sustainable maize production. INM practices not only improve soil health but also enhance the nutritional quality of maize. For instance, the application of 75% NPK fertilizers as per soil test response (STR) combined with enriched phosphorus compost (EPC), biofertilizers, and foliar Zn spray significantly boosted the active and passive constituents of soil organic matter, leading to improved soil health and maize productivity (Bamboriya et al., 2023). Moreover, the use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in combination with organic and chemical fertilizers has been shown to enhance nutrient uptake and biofortification of maize grains, thereby addressing nutritional security (Ahmad et al., 2023). These integrated approaches ensure a balanced nutrient supply, promoting both crop productivity and nutritional quality. In conclusion, the future of maize biofortification lies in the strategic use of optimized fertilizers, precision agriculture, and integrated nutrient management systems. These innovations not only enhance the nutritional value of maize but also contribute to sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring food security and improved health outcomes. 7 Concluding Remarks The role of mineral fertilizers in enhancing the nutritional value of maize has been extensively studied, with significant findings highlighting the benefits of integrated nutrient management practices. The combination of organic amendments such as biochar and compost with inorganic fertilizers has been shown to improve maize yield, nutrient uptake, and nitrogen use efficiency, particularly under drought conditions. The use of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) in conjunction with reduced NPK fertilization rates has also demonstrated increased maize yields and improved soil nutrient availability, suggesting a potential reduction in chemical fertilizer usage. Additionally, the foliar application of NPK fertilizers at specific growth stages has been found to significantly enhance nutrient uptake and protein content in maize. Studies have also indicated that the combined application of compost and mineral fertilizers can increase the concentration of essential minerals in maize grains and improve nutrient use efficiency. Furthermore, the strategic placement and timing of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers have been shown to optimize nitrogen utilization and improve maize yield. The findings from these studies have important implications for maize production and food security. The integration of organic and inorganic fertilizers not only enhances maize yield and nutritional quality but also promotes sustainable agricultural practices by improving soil health and reducing the reliance on chemical
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