The Influence of the Tillage System, Hybrid and Climatic Conditions on Corn Yields in the Osmancea Area, Constanța

Abstract

In order to achieve profitable corn crops, implementing agricultural practices that take into account soil conservation, it is first necessary to identify and use the most effective types of tillage. Secondly, this approach must be completed with attention to the selection of productive hybrids, adapted to the pedological and climatic conditions of the cultivation area. Starting from this necessity, the objective of this paper is to present the results of the research carried out in the Constanța area in order to identify the best combination of technological factors for the cultivation of corn. The research was carried out in the years 2017-2021 within the SC Micul Agricultor SRL Company from Osmancea, Constanța County. To achieve the objectives of the research, a trifactorial experience of the 3 x 3 x 5 type was established. It was organized according to the method of subdivided plots, in three repetitions. Within it, the following factors were tested: Factor A = soil works, with graduations (a1 = plough, a2 = tiger, a3 = disk); Factor B = the hybrid, with the graduations (b1 = Mas 40 F, b2 = Dartona, b3 = P9911); Factor C = year of experimentation, with graduations (c1 = 2017 F, c2 = 2018, c3 = 2019, c4 = 2020, c5 = 2021). The best results in terms of seed germination and yield were recorded for the variant in which the basic tillage was carried out with tiger. Using the disc for basic tillage had negative effects on the percentage of plants that emerged, but also reduced seed yield, while weed infestation was higher compared to the other types of tillage. Results show that tillage was the main factor influencing production, followed by hybrid selection. Knowledge of the effects of tillage types, combined with hybrid selection is important in developing crop management practices adapted to the condition of a particular crop area, which will ensure a balance between farmers' need to increase productivity and conserve natural soil resources.