Which of the following describes the effects of excessive nitrogen application on the growth of maize plants?
Answer Details
Excessive nitrogen application on maize plants can have different effects depending on the stage of growth and the level of nitrogen applied. However, in general, the most common effect is high vegetative growth with low yield. This is because excess nitrogen encourages the plant to produce more leaves and stems at the expense of grain production. This phenomenon is commonly known as "luxury consumption" and can lead to taller, bushier plants that have a reduced ability to produce grains. Therefore, while nitrogen is essential for plant growth and development, excessive application can lead to negative consequences for maize production.