Growth Yield and Yield Attributes of Some White Maize Varieties as Influenced by Planting Configuration

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted at Agronomy field of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka during the period from November to April (winter season) 2015-2016. This study investigated the combined effects of four Chinese white maize varieties (V1 = Changnau-1, V2 = Q-Xiangnau-1, V3 = Changnau-6, V4 = Youngnau-7) and two planting configurations (S1 =70 cm x 25 cm and S2 = 60 cm x 25 cm) on their growth, yield, and yield attributes. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Significant variations were observed among the varieties for all measured parameters. Changnau-6 (V3) produced the longest cob (17.54 cm), maximum grains cob-1 (418.36), highest grain yield (8.3670 t ha-1), stover yield (9.6921 t ha-1) and biological yield (18.059 t ha-1) while Youngnau-7 (V4) had the shortest cob (12.683 cm), maximum grains cob-1 (247.53), lowest grain yield (4.8469 t ha-1), stover yield (7.957 t ha-1), biological yield (10.982 t ha-1) shortest maturation time. Planting at 70 cm x 25 cm (S1) spacing resulted in taller plants, more leaves, and longer cobs compared to 60 cm x 25 cm (S2) spacing, but yielded less grain, stover, and biomass. The interaction between variety and planting configuration further influenced the traits. Changnau-1 (V1) planted at 70 cm x 25 cm (S1) had the highest plant height, number of leaves, and days to maturity, while Changnau-6 (V3) planted at 60 cm x 25 cm (S2) achieved the highest grain yield (8.7645 t ha-1), stover yield (10.089 t ha-1) biological yield (18.853 t ha-1) and harvest index (46.487 %). Overall, the choice of variety and planting configuration significantly impacted the growth, yield, and yield attributes of white maize. Changnau-6 (V3) variety with 60 cm x 25 cm (S2) plant spacing was found to be the most promising combination for maximizing grain yield and harvest index under the conditions of this field trial.