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Response of Maize to Planting Dates in a Tropical Rainforest Location

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 October 2008

M. A. B. Fakorede
Affiliation:
Department of Plant Science, University of Ife, Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Summary

Grain yield of maize (Zea mays L.) was decreased by 30, 38 and 34 kg ha−1 for each day by which sowing was delayed after the first planting in March in 1978, 1980 and 1981, respectively. Yield reduction was associated with reduced plant size (plant and ear heights, tassel weight and branch numbers), ear number, ear weight, grain weight, ear length, ear diameter and kernel weight. High yields can thus be obtained by planting with the first rains of the year, especially if a good rate of emergence and seedling vigour under relatively hot, dry soil conditions can be ensured either culturally or genetically.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1985

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References

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