Mechanisms of Nitrogen Use in Maize

• Main Authors: Emmanuel Asibi Aziiba, Chai Qiang, Jeffrey A. Coulter
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2019-11-01
• Series: Agronomy
• Subjects: maize production; nitrogen use efficiency; nitrogen nutrition
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4395/9/12/775

Nitrogen<b> </b>(N) fertilizers are needed to enhance maize (<i>Zea mays</i> L.) production. Maize plays a major role in the livestock industry, biofuels, and human nutrition. Globally, less than one-half of applied N is recovered by maize. Although the application of N fertilizer can improve maize yield, excess N application due to low knowledge of the mechanisms of nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) poses serious threats to environmental sustainability. Increased environmental consciousness and an ever-increasing human population necessitate improved N utilization strategies in maize production. Enhanced understanding of the relationship between maize growth and productivity and the dynamics of maize N recovery are of major significance. A better understanding of the metabolic and genetic control of N acquisition and remobilization during vegetative and reproductive phases are important to improve maize productivity and to avoid excessive use of N fertilizers. Synchronizing the N supply with maize N demand throughout the growing season is key to improving NUE and reducing N loss to the environment. This review examines the mechanisms of N use in maize to provide a basis for driving innovations to improve NUE and reduce risks of negative environmental impacts.