Spatio-Temporal Modeling of Bio-Sona-Potassium-Humate Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers Effect on Maize Crop Yield using High Resolution Drone Imagery

Abstract

Obtaining maximum yield from crops has always remained the main objective of farmers. It is very important that soil in which crop is sowed, should have proper nutrients to give maximum yield. Being fourth largest crop in Pakistan, high maize crop yield is an important objective for farmers and government. For this purpose, efforts are always being made to improve soil nutrients in an economical way. This study is intended to monitor effects of Potassium Humate based Bio Sona (Potassium Humate) with and without inorganic fertilizers (N, P and K) on Maize crop with Multi spectral Drone imagery at various stages of growth. High resolution drone is an effective instrument for temporal assessment of crops growth and yield which indicated the correct behavior of vegetation indices with crop growth during crop cycle. Vegetation indices acted normally according to crop growth. Correlation analysis between crop yield, vegetation indices and crop height indicated strong to moderate positive correlation. Regression analysis was used to select the best time to predict maize crop yield. It was found out that growth stage of crop is most suitable time to predict the crop yield. Soil nutrient values were checked for suitability of maize crop sowing and found normal. Field experiments were carried out by applying Bio Sona (Potassium Humate) with and without inorganic fertilizers to assess the best combination for higher maize yield using high resolution drone imagery. Results indicated that only Bio Sona (Potassium Humate) does not produce high yield. However, combination of Bio Sona (Potassium Humate) and inorganic fertilizers produced higher yield by trying out various combinations. Highest yield was obtained from Treatment 05 which contained 20 ml per 200 m2 combined with 75% of conventional dose of inorganic fertilizers. Results also showed that with increase in dose of both Bio Sona (Potassium Humate) and inorganic fertilizers, yield either decreased or did not produce much difference.