Response to lime and P by several genetic sources of corn (Zsa mays L.) on a low pH and P soil in the greenhouse 1

The objective of this study was to investigate the response of 16 different genetic sources of corn (Zea mays L.) to lime and P application on a low pH and P Parsons silt loam soil in the greenhouse. A highly significant lime x P interaction was found for both dry matter production and P concentration. Phosphorus increased both dry matter production and P content of plant tissues with or without lime application. However, liming produced a detrimental effect when P was applied but no effect when no P was applied. Corn genetic sources showed a highly significant interaction with P treatment, but not with lime for both dry matter production and P concentration. The results suggest that improvement in corn growth could be achieved in a low P soil environment by genetic selection.