COMPOSTO ORGÂNICO ASSOCIADO À ADUBAÇÃO MINERAL NA CULTURA DO MILHO NA REGIÃO DE RIO VERDE-GO

Abstract

Soil fertilization is fundamental for sustainable agriculture, as it directly influences crop productivity. The combined application of organic compounds and mineral fertilizers can improve the chemical and biological properties of the soil, promoting greater balance and fertility. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of combined fertilization with organic compost and mineral fertilizers on the development and productivity of a maize (Zea mays L.) crop. The experiment was conducted at the Nova Terra Experimental Farm and at IF Goiano – Rio Verde Campus. Twelve treatments were tested, consisting of two fertilization sources (organic compost, and organic compost combined with mineral fertilization) and six doses of organic compost (0, 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 t ha⁻¹), applied either alone or in combination with mineral fertilizers, totaling 48 experimental units of 12.5 m² (5.0 m × 2.5 m plots), distributed in four blocks. The maize cultivar used was MG 540 PW. The evaluated variables in maize cultivation included stem length, shoot dry mass, thousand-grain weight, and yield. This study aimed to identify the best combination between organic compost and mineral fertilizers for maize cultivation.