Abstract:
Maize is a staple crop important for food security that millions globally depend upon as an
energy source, primarily due to its high starch and fat content. For growth and disease resistance,
maize production requires a balanced intake of essential nutrients, including nitrogen (N), phosphorus
(P) and potassium (K). This study investigated the relationship between soil nutrient levels and maize
disease occurrences in the Mopani District Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Soil
and maize leaves were collected using a systematic sampling approach. Grids of 10 × 10 m were
created, covering a maize field. Forty soil samples were collected a day before the planting date
and sent to the laboratory for analysis of N, P and K. During the tasseling stage of the maize plant,
40 maize leaf samples were collected and sent to the laboratory for disease identification. Maize
leaves were classified as healthy, southern corn leaf blight (Bipolaris maydis), northern corn leaf blight
(Exserohilum turcicum), maize streak disease (Maize streak virus), nitrogen-deficient or phosphorusdeficient. Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) with a corrected Akaike Information Criterion (AICc)
showed a significant relationship between low soil nutrient levels of N, P and K and maize disease
occurrence (p < 0.0001). The interaction of the N*P*K model had the lowest AIC value (AICc = 28.53),
indicating the necessity of considering synergistic effects in maize disease management. All the
model performances had a delta AICc = 0. These findings highlight the significance of comprehensive
soil management strategies in enhancing the disease resistance, well-being and yields of maize crops.
