To estimate the grain productivity of maize under field conditions, a method based on yield structure components is used: plant density, number of grain rows, number of grains per row, and 1000-grain weight are taken into account. With intensive cultivation technologies and irrigation, grain yield reaches 5–7.5 t/ha or more, whereas under extensive conditions, figures vary from 1.2 to 3.0 t/ha. The productivity of silage maize is measured by the green mass yield, which in favorable conditions ranges from 400–1000 ц/ha.
The realization of maize yield potential directly depends on the matching of the hybrid's FAO maturity rating to a specific climatic zone and on agronomic factors. The optimal plant density is usually up to 70–85 thousand plants/ha; exceeding this threshold reduces photosynthetic potential, while sparse stands do not allow for maximum system productivity. The use of continuous monocropping leads to a decrease in yield due to the accumulation of soil-borne pathogens and toxins.
General information about the subject — on the page
Yield.