Step 3 – Fertilizing:
- Seedling stage (3–5 leaves): Side-dress with NPK or urea, focusing on nitrogen for rapid growth.
- Pre-tasseling stage (6–8 leaves): Apply balanced NPK, increasing phosphorus and potassium to strengthen stems and prepare for ears.
Tasseling – Ear filling: Apply potassium and phosphorus to ensure firm ears and full kernels; micronutrients can be sprayed if needed.
Step 4 – Harvesting:
Harvest after 68–70 days when the kernels are full and milky.