Quantitative, Qualitative, and Energy Assessment of Boron Fertilization on Maize Production in North-West Himalayan Region

Boron (B), the second most deficient soil micronutrient globally, negatively impacts the production and quality of the agricultural produce. Maize ( Zea mays L.) grown on B deficient soils registered a decline in crop productivity. Keeping this in view, a two-year field experiment was conducted to assess the effect of B application on productivity, profitability, quality, and different efficiencies in maize, with limited information available. Treatments consisted of two levels of soil B application methods (Foliar application and soil plus foliar application), three levels of B foliar application rates (0.017, 0.034, and 0.051%), and two levels of B foliar application frequencies (2 and 3 sprays). It was hypothesized that among all the treatments, foliar B sprays with 0.051% will be more productive, qualitatively superior, economically viable, and ecologically sustainable compared to the recommended dose for the region (0.034% B). The results showed that the highest grain yields were obtained with conjoint basal and foliar application of boron at 2.0 kg ha −1 and 0.051%, respectively with three foliar feedings. Overall, B application recorded an increase of 19.6% in maize grain yield compared to control. The economic indices, nutritional quality (Fe and Zn uptake by plants), and energy efficiencies also showed analogous results. However, sole foliar application through boric acid at its lowest rate (0.017%) with two foliar feedings registered the highest Partial factor productivity. In conclusion, B fertilization enhanced the productivity, profitability, ecological, and economic sustainability of maize on a B deficient Typic Hapludalfs.