Effect of plant population density of black maize on plant growth, baby-corn yield, and biomass

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of black maize plant population density on plant growth, baby-corn yield, and biomass. The research was carried out from September to November 2021 on the plot of the Merang Mushroom Center and Integrated Farming of Lestari Makmur, Kepuhan Hamlet, Argorejo, Sedayu, Bantul, Yogyakarta with vertisol soil type and an altitude of 87.5 meters above sea level. The plant population density implemented in the number of plants per hole, namely 1, 2, 3, and 4 plants per hole, was tested using Completely Randomized Block Design with 3 replications. Each experimental unit measuring 3m × 3.5m with a plant spacing of 75cm × 25cm. Maintenance of experimental plants following the standard recommendations for corn cultivation. Cow manure 15 tons ha−1 was sown before planting, while NPK fertilizer of 300 kg ha was given 2 times on 2 and 4 weeks after planting, by making a whole, put fertilizer in, then covered with soil again. Detasseling was done before the tassels bloom. Baby corn was harvested up to maximum of 6 days after the ears appear. Biomass was harvested by cutting the plant stand after all baby-corn had been harvested. The observed variables were plant height (cm), number of leaves (strands), stem diameter (mm), days to tasseling (days after planting), fresh and dry weight of plant (g), weight and diameter of ears, baby corn yield ha−1, and biomass yield ha−1. Data collected were analized by analysis of variance and DMRT at α= 5%. The results showed that the population density of black maize had an effect on stem diameter, plant fresh weight, baby-corn yield, and biomass yield per hectare. The largest stem diameter at a population density of 1 plant/hole. The yield of baby-corn per hectare was highest at a density of 3 or 4 plants per hole, and the highest biomass yield per hectare was at a density of 4 plants per hole. The weight, length, and diameter of baby-corn did not differ at various population densities.