Grain yield response and N-fertiliser recovery of maize under deficit irrigation

The PRD irrigation practice had the highest N-fertiliser recovery among the irrigation treatments, with minimal mineral N residue left after maize harvest. The recoveries under FULL and DI50 treatments were 17 and 24% less, respectively, than the PRD treatment. The PRD irrigation practice was not only as effective as conventional deficit irrigation (DI) in saving water, but it should also be regarded as an environmentally friendly irrigation practice due to its association with low mineral N residue left in the soil.