The Reaction of Some Maize Hybrids to Several Plant Densities, in the Cultivation Conditions of West Part of Romania

Abstract

The density of plants on a certain area is a method used on a large scale to increase yield, but in certain environmental conditions and cultivation areas, it can be a stress for plants. At the Agricultural Research and Development Station Turda (ARDS Turda), seven maize hybrids, the most recent creations, were tested at four plant densities, in order to monitor their reaction in non-irrigated conditions. The plant densities used were 60,000, 70,000, 80,000 and 90,000 plant/ha and the experiment was carried out in three years: 2020, 2021 and 2022. The behaviour of the hybrids was different, but most of them had the best yield at 60,000 plants/ha. However, two hybrids stood out, Turda 335 and Turda 380, which had very good yield at 70,000 plants/ha, as well as a better tolerance to the stress of higher densities, especially due to characteristics such as superior production capacity, erect port or semi-erect leaves, prolific, good tolerance to water stress. Especially in non-irrigated conditions, maize yield is highly influenced by climatic conditions, regardless of density, so the use of high densities must be associated with ensuring optimal cultivation conditions.