GRAIN YIELD OF MAIZE HYBRIDS IN DIFFERENT LOCATIONS IN CENTRAL SERBIA

Abstract

Field trials with 11 maize hybrids (9 newly released and two standards) of the FAO maturity groups 300-600 were sown in four locations. The aim of the work was to recommend hybrids for individual location based on their reaction to different agroecological conditions, as well as to evaluate the possibility of replacing later hybrids with hybrids of earlier maturity groups, with certain changes in agrotechnics. ZP hybrids of the latest generation showed high grain yield potential and stability, as well as wide adaptability to different ecological conditions, degree of soil fertility and application of agrotechnical measures. A significantly higher grain yield of all hybrids compared to other locations was at the Valjevo location, that is, the location with the highest amount and favorable distribution of precipitation during the growing season. In these trials, maize hybrids of different FAO maturity groups were grown with the same number of plants per unit area. For maize hybrids with shorter vegetation, which are characterized by a lower plant height, a greater number of plants per unit area is recommended, compared to hybrids with a longer growing season. With changes in agrotechnics in this direction, along with the advantages of earlier hybrids, which are seen in avoiding critical periods for water, the grain yield of earliy hybrids could reach the yield level of later hybrids.