DESEMPENHO AGRONÔMICO DO MILHO SUBMETIDO A DIFERENTES DOSES DE BORO E NÍVEIS DE REPOSIÇÃO HÍDRICA

Abstract

Maize is a crop of high economic and productive importance, and the integrated management of irrigation and fertilization is essential for expressing its productive potential. Among micronutrients, boron participates in processes related to plant growth, tissue structural integrity, and reproductive development. This study evaluated the effects of different boron rates and two water replacement levels on vegetative, biomass, and yield-related traits of maize. The experiment was conducted in pots using a randomized block design in a 2 × 6 factorial arrangement, with three replications, totaling 36 experimental units. Treatments consisted of two water replacement levels, corresponding to 50 and 100% of field capacity, and six boron rates (0.00, 0.35, 0.70, 1.05, 1.40, and 1.75 g plant⁻¹). Stem diameter, plant height, number and dimensions of leaves, biomass accumulation, ear insertion height, and yield components were evaluated. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and, when applicable, polynomial regression and interaction unfolding. Water replacement at 100% of field capacity favored growth, biomass accumulation, and several yield components. Boron rates predominantly showed quadratic responses, with maximum values at intermediate rates and reduced performance at the highest rates. For traits showing a significant interaction, the response to boron varied according to water availability. It is concluded that maintaining soil moisture near field capacity and supplying intermediate boron rates favor maize agronomic performance, whereas excessive rates may reduce vegetative and productive responses.