Phosphorus (P) starter fertiliser is a common and widely used solution to improve maize emergence and early vigour. Field trials evaluated how the depth of P placement affects maize growth and nutrient uptake. Results showed that early development was more influenced by temperature than rainfall. However, dry matter yield of ears and whole plants responded clearly to phosphorus application. The most effective placement depths were 5?cm and 10?cm, which consistently improved nutrient uptake across different years. The SPAD (Soil Plant Analysis Development) index, which measures leaf greenness, proved to be a sensitive and practical tool for detecting maize response to NP fertiliser placement. These findings support the use of shallow, targeted phosphorus placement to enhance early growth and nutrient efficiency without increasing fertiliser inputs. This approach helps farmers optimise fertiliser use and improve maize productivity under variable field conditions.