How to improve maize protein content
Protein levels of maize can be improved with the correct balance of nutrition, particularly nitrogen, phosphorus, sulphur and zinc which will improve grain protein content and quality.
Nitrogen improves grain protein
Poor nitrogen supply during grain fill leads to lower grain proteins. A balanced nitrogen topdressing during stem elongation can improve grain protein content and provide the right amount of nitrogen to sustain the maize grain filling.
Potassium increases protein content
Good potassium nutrition increases protein content of the grain and also the levels of amino acids cystine and methionine.
Sulphur is needed for nitrogen to be utilised efficiently
Sulphur supply is particularly important in the conversion of nitrogen to protein and in improving grain maize quality.
Related articles
How to increase forage maize yield
Forage maize yield can be increased by creating an efficient green leaf canopy and then maintaining this through to harvest.
How to increase forage maize energy content
Energy content of maize silage is increased by balanced crop nutrition which will also help to boost the quality of the ensiled leaf material.
Forage maize nutritional summary
The main period of nutrient uptake in maize is during stem extension or shooting so fertiliser needs to be applied before this time.
