**2.3 Fertilizer types and application methods**

Nutrient management plays a vital role in optimizing maize production and selecting appropriate fertilizer types and application methods is crucial for achieving optimal crop yields [28]. Maize requires specific nutrients, including nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), as well as secondary and micronutrients, to support its growth and development. Nitrogen fertilizers, such as urea, ammonium nitrate, and ammonium sulfate, are commonly used to supply the essential nutrient nitrogen to maize. Nitrogen application should be split into multiple doses to match the crop's demand throughout the growing season [29]. Phosphorus fertilizers, such as diammonium phosphate (DAP) and triple superphosphate (TSP), are beneficial for root development and overall plant growth. These fertilizers are typically applied at planting time, either broadcast or as a band near the seed, to ensure efficient uptake by the developing root system. Potassium fertilizers, such as potassium chloride (KCl) and potassium sulfate (K2SO4), are crucial for enhancing maize yield and improving drought tolerance [30]. The application of potassium can be incorporated into the soil before planting or applied as a side dress during the early stages of crop growth. Additionally, secondary nutrients like calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S), along with micronutrients like zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and boron (B), and molybdenum (Mo), play significant roles in maize production [31]. These nutrients can be supplied through soil amendments or foliar applications, based on soil test results and crop nutrient requirements. Appropriate fertilizer application methods, such as broadcasting, banding, side-dressing, and foliar spraying, should be employed to ensure efficient nutrient uptake and minimize losses. By following recommended nutrient management practices, including split applications and considering the specific nutrient requirements of maize, farmers can achieve higher yields and sustainable crop production [31–33].
