Effect of Slow-Release Nitrogen Fertilizer with NBPT Inhibitor on Popcorn (Zea mays L. everta) Yield and Quality

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This study was conducted to determine the effect of slow-release nitrogen with NBPT inhibitor [(N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT)] fertilizer doses on yield and yield components in popcorn under second crop conditions in Sanlıurfa in 2022 and 2023. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block trial design with 3 replications. In the research, the R-997 popcorn variety was employed as the crop material. Slow-release urea fertiliser with NBPT inhibitor doses were utilised at the following rates: 0, 4 kg da-1, 8 kg da-1, 12 kg da-1, 16 kg da-1, 20 kg da-1, 24 kg da-1, 28 kg da-1, 32 kg da-1, respectively. The analysis of variance revealed that slow-release nitrogen dose applications had a statistically significant impact on several key traits, including the number of kernels per ear, ear diameter, ear length, thousand grain weight, and grain yield (P≤0.01). Furthermore, some quality parameters, including protein ratio, popping volume and unpopped kernel ratio, were also found to be statistically significant (P≤0.01). With the exception of the control, the application of slow-release nitrogen (N) at increasing doses was observed to have a positive effect on the studied traits and grain yield, apart from unpoped kernel. The analysis of regression indicated that the highest grain yield was achieved with the inclusion of the slow-release N with NBPT inhibitor at a dosage of 23 kg N ha-1, while the lowest grain yield was observed in the treatment where no nitrogen was applied. The use of slow-release nitrogen fertilisers may be recommended in areas of high evaporation and hot climates.