Effect of Foliar Boron Fertilization on Chemical Properties and Fatty Acid Compositions of Corn (Zea mays L.)

Boron is a member of the metaloid group of elements and is an important essential microelement needed for normal crop growth and development. This research was conducted in 2015 in Hatay (Mediterranean region of Turkey) to determine foliar application of Boron effect on protein ratio, starch ratio and oil yield and oil components of corn. To evaluate the response of foliar application of boron to corn, four boron doses (control, 4, 6 and 8 mg/m(2)) were applied at the three growing stages (V2; 2 leaves with visible collars, V4; 4 leaves with visible collars, V2V4; half dosage was applied V2 and half dosage was applied V4). The experiment was carried out in a split plot design with three replicates using cultivar 82 May 70. Ears were harvested and randomly selected for analysis of protein ratio, starch ratio, oil yield and fatty acid composition. Even though there was no significant difference in Boron treatments in terms of protein and starch, significant difference was determined in oil yield and fatty acid composition. In general, foliar application of higher Boron doses (6, 8 mg/m(2)) increased oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid. In the early development period (V2), foliar application of boron caused an increase in the content of linoleic acid and linolenic acid of corn.