Abstract:

Delta-row planting is a novel maize field arrangement that optimizes the spatial configuration and population structure of plants. This method improves the field light environment and enhances light energy utilization efficiency, thereby contributing to stable yield increases. However, systematic research on its comprehensive effects on maize canopy structure, photosynthetic production, and stem mechanical properties remains lacking. Using the maize variety 'Lianyan 35' as material, with conventional equidistant planting as the control, this study systematically analyzed the effects of delta-row planting on maize morphological characteristics (plant height, ear height, stem-leaf angle, and canopy transmittance), photosynthetic production (leaf area index, SPAD value, net photosynthetic rate, and dry matter accumulation per plant), and stem strength (breaking strength, crushing strength, and puncture strength). The mechanism underlying its effect on yield formation was further explored. The results showed that delta-row planting significantly optimized the population canopy structure by reducing the stem-leaf angle and increasing canopy transmittance. This effectively improved the light conditions for middle and lower leaves, subsequently enhancing leaf photosynthetic capacity and dry matter accumulation. Compared with traditional equidistant planting, delta-row planting significantly increased the SPAD value of leaves, raised the net photosynthetic rate by 20.00%, and markedly boosted dry matter accumulation per plant. Concurrently, delta-row planting strengthened the mechanical properties of maize stems, with breaking strength increasing by 28.60% and crushing strength by 11.11%, which is beneficial for improving lodging resistance. Regarding yield performance, the delta-row planting treatment achieved a grain yield of 16297.05 kg/hm², significantly higher than the 14852.22 kg/hm² of the control treatment, representing a yield increase of 9.73%. In summary, the delta-row planting method effectively promotes yield formation by optimizing canopy structure, enhancing photosynthetic production, and strengthening stem mechanical properties. Therefore, it can be promoted and applied as an efficient and stable maize cultivation technique.

Key words: maize, delta-row planting, canopy structure, stem strength, yield