Cultivation

Maize sowing time

Zea mays L.

The optimal sowing time for maize is determined by soil temperature at a depth of 3–6 cm reaching +10…+12°C and the biological characteristics of the hybrid. Failure to meet these timelines leads to seedling stress, reduced germination, and a potential yield loss of up to 1% for each day of delay.

In the reference 103 varieties crop Maize, where this is mentioned in the description.

The optimal period for sowing maize begins when the soil at the seed placement depth reaches a temperature of +10…+12°C. Sowing at temperatures below +7…+8°C triggers cold stress, which causes damage to cell membranes during seed imbibition and the development of soil-borne pathogens. Early sowing dates allow for effective utilization of winter moisture reserves but require the use of special cold-tolerant hybrids of the flint or flint-dent type.

Late sowing entails risks of moisture deficit and a shortened growing season, which leads to lower yields and increased grain moisture. An important factor is ensuring the sowing dates correspond to the hybrid's maturity index (FAO). The unique feature of maize is that the growing point remains below ground until the 5–6 leaf stage, which allows the plant to recover after frost damage to the above-ground portion.

General information about the subject — on the page Sowing date.

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.