Abstract
High plant density is considered a proficient approach to increase maize production in countries with limited agricultural land; however, this creates a high risk of stem lodging and kernel abortion by reducing the ratio of biomass to the development of the stem and ear. Stem lodging and kernel abortion are major constraints in maize yield production for high plant density cropping; therefore, it is very important to overcome stem lodging and kernel abortion in maize. In this review, we discuss various morphophysiological and genetic characteristics of maize that may reduce the risk of stem lodging and kernel abortion, with a focus on carbohydrate metabolism and partitioning in maize. These characteristics illustrate a strong relationship between stem lodging resistance and kernel abortion. Previous studies have focused on targeting lignin and cellulose accumulation to improve lodging resistance. Nonetheless, a critical analysis of the literature showed that considering sugar metabolism and examining its effects on lodging resistance and kernel abortion in maize may provide considerable results to improve maize productivity. A constructive summary of management approaches that could be used to efficiently control the effects of stem lodging and kernel abortion is also included. The preferred management choice is based on the genotype of maize; nevertheless, various genetic and physiological approaches can control stem lodging and kernel abortion. However, plant growth regulators and nutrient application can also help reduce the risk for stem lodging and kernel abortion in maize.
Highlights
Maize is one of the most widely grown cereal crops and is important for human food, animal feed, industrial raw materials, and biofuel energy (Shiferaw et al, 2011; Anjum et al, 2017)
A significant increase in cob size was observed when uniconazole was applied at early growth stages, pointing to the impact of application time on maize yield performance (Xu et al, 2004); considering the time of application may result in increased stem lodging and reduced kernel abortion simultaneously under high plant density (PD)
This review provides an understanding of stem lodging and kernel abortion mechanisms in maize
Summary
Maize is one of the most widely grown cereal crops and is important for human food, animal feed, industrial raw materials, and biofuel energy (Shiferaw et al, 2011; Anjum et al, 2017). Sugar accumulation (controlled by SUS genes) delays senescence until the end of the season and increases resistance to stem lodging; it minimizes kernel abortion and prolongs grain development (Thomas and Howarth, 2000).
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