The Impact of Using Microalgae as Biofertilizer in Maize (Zea mays L.)

Fertilizers play a key role in yield if agriculture crops and their market value. Hence, large scale production of low cost, eco-friendly and broad spectrum fertilizers are mandatory. This study was to assess the effect of marine microalgal fertilizer on growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L.). The maize plants were raised in soil supplemented with two marine microalgae (Chlorella vulgaris and Spirulina platensis) along with cow dung manure for 75 days under green house condition. The marine microalgal treatment increased growth performance at the early stage of growth and improved yield characteristics, in addition to increased seed germination. Cow dung and two marine microalgae mixture treatment exhibited high growth and yield revealed the potential of the marine microalgae as fertilizer in cultivation of maize.