Cultivation

Maize irrigation

Zea mays L.

Maize irrigation is based on meeting the high moisture demand during the critical period from the onset of tasseling to flowering while maintaining soil moisture at 70–80% of field capacity.

In the reference 148 varieties crop Maize, where this is mentioned in the description.

Maize is sensitive to moisture deficit 10 days before tassel emergence and for 20 days after the onset of flowering, when even short-term wilting can reduce yields by 20–50%. Germination requires 40–60% of seed mass in water, and sufficient moisture is necessary during initial growth stages for root system development.

The optimal water regime involves maintaining moisture in the root zone at 70–80% of field capacity. At the same time, the crop does not tolerate waterlogging or standing water, requiring good soil aeration for normal embryo development. Water demand decreases during the milk stage, after which irrigation is discontinued.

Maize water-use efficiency is characterized by a transpiration coefficient of 280–350. In agronomic practice, sprinkler and drip irrigation systems are used, with equipment selection accounting for the plant height of tall varieties and the feasibility of fertigation.

General information about the subject — on the page Irrigation.

Sources8

Varieties of Maize mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.