Inter-relationships of applied nitrogen, SPAD, and yield of leafy and non-leafy maize genotypes

The SPAD chlorophyll meter was found to be a reliable, quick, and non-destr uctive tool used for directly measuring leaf chlorophyll and indirectly ass essing the proportional parameter of leaf, and by extension, plant nitrogen (N) status. The meter has been used successfully to assess leaf N in conve ntional maize crops, but it has not been used with new maize (Zea mays L.) geno-types containing leafy (L) and reduced stature (RS) traits. SPAD meter readings were collected on the uppermost fully developed leaves (before si lking) and on the ear leaf (after silking) of field grown maize genotypes w ith and without the L and RS traits.