Variety traits

Maize growing season

Zea mays L. subsp. mays (Maize Group)

The maize growing season determines hybrid maturity and is evaluated via the FAO index, the number of calendar days from emergence to physiological maturity, and the sum of effective temperatures above +10°C.

In the reference 113 varieties crop Maize, where this is mentioned in the description.

To assess maize maturity, the international FAO system is used, where an index from 100 to 600+ reflects the duration of the period from emergence to ripening, taking into account grain moisture and active temperature accumulation. Early-maturing hybrids (FAO 100–200) ripen in 90–100 days, whereas late-maturing ones (FAO 501–600+) require 130–140 days.

The choice of maturity group determines the balance between yield potential and climatic risks. Late-maturing hybrids possess high productivity potential and are suitable for silage use, while early-maturing ones ensure low grain moisture at harvest, reducing drying costs and the risk of pathogen infection.

A critical indicator for the completion of the grain maize growing season is the formation of the 'black layer' on the grain, which signifies the attainment of physiological maturity. The use of hybrids that do not match the climatic zone leads to a failure to meet the requirements for temperature accumulation and results in high-moisture grain.

General information about the subject — on the page Vegetation period.

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.