A note on the effect of genotype, density and row width on the yield and quality of forage maize

Abstract

SUMMARYThe results are presented from a factorial experiment on the effects of genotype (Julia, Inra 200 and Caldera 535), density (4·9, 11·0 and 16·7 plants/m2) and row width (70 and 35 cm) on the quantity and quality of maize produced 136 days after emergence.The later maturing the variety, the higher was the dry matter yield, but the lower was the dry matter percentage. There was little advantage in favour of the high density when compared with the medium density, while row width did not markedly affect the production character measured. Both density and variety significantly influenced the ripe ear. The dried grain/ear for the low, medium and high densities was 111, 89 and 74 g respectively. However, at the highest density nitrogen content, dry matter digestibility and digestible organic matter in the dry matter were all slightly reduced. With the exception of magnesium, the mineral contents showed similar trends.