Nutrient management in sweet corn: A key to productivity and sustainability

Sweet corn has emerged as a new-age super food for health-conscious individuals and is one of the most popular vegetables in many Western and developed countries. It is a special type of corn characterized by a thin pericarp layer and a translucent, horny appearance of kernels at maturity, which become wrinkled upon drying. Sweet corn is typically harvested at the milky stage of the endosperm, around 20 days after fertilization. The primary cause of low sweet corn productivity is the absence of suitable production technologies, especially in the area of nutrient management. Nutrient management is a critical factor influencing the growth and yield of sweet corn, as it is a nutrient-intensive crop requiring both macro and micronutrients for optimal performance. Maintaining soil fertility sustainably requires a balanced use of both organic and inorganic nutrient sources to enhance plant growth and yield. Hence balanced fertilization using a combination of organic manures and synthetic fertilizers is essential. Integrated nutrient management in sweet corn is crucial for improving soil health and maintaining long-term crop productivity.