The yield performance of maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes under different planting times

Abstract

Adoption of graded and certified seeds for planting has a high demand among the farmers at Kirkuk city, where maize has different way of consumption like a staple food, forge crop and raw material for industry. This study aimed to evaluate common domestic maize genotype, against the modern maize genotype under different summer planting times at the district of Kirkuk - Kirkuk governorate, Iraq. The study include two genotypes of maize, (Bohoth106 modern genotype and domestic maize genotype) and three planting times (early-July, mid-July and late-July). The experiment was established in three replicate blocks under randomized complete block design. The results showed that Bohoth106 which planted at mid-July had a significant performance, in traits kernels weight per ear (164.5 g), grain yield (11.2 t.ha-1), Stover yield (25.1 t.ha-1) and biomass yield (36.2 t.ha-1). Whereas, the lowest values were observed in the interaction between domestic maize with early-July planting time. Simple correlation coefficients revealed that grain yield positively and significantly correlated with leaf area index, Stover yield, biomass yield, grain Stover ratio and harvest index. According to the presented results farmers can cultivate Bohoth106 at mid-July till late-July to achieve high grain yield during summer planting time in Kirkuk district, Iraq. Keywords: Maize yield, Genotypes, Planting times, Regression relationship.