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Combining Ability Analysis of Grain Weight per Plant and Nitrogen Fertilizer Agronomic Efficiency of Maize Inbred Line Under Low Nitrogen Stress

XIANG Zhenfan, HUO Chuan, FENG Yunchao, YANG Lian, HUANG Meixia, YAN Qingjiu, HUO Shiping

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (20): 1-9. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2025-0025

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To screen maize inbred lines with high combining ability for single plant grain weight and nitrogen fertilizer agronomic efficiency, using 15 inbred lines as materials, 56 hybrid combinations were constructed according to the NCⅡ mating design. Under low nitrogen stress, the general combining ability of inbred lines for single plant grain weight and nitrogen fertilizer agronomic efficiency were estimated, as well as the specific combining ability of hybrid combinations. The results indicated that the inbred lines with positive general combining ability effects for single plant grain weight were WZ14212, WZ1718-2, 1734A10, Z7A-21, 1734B325, 1735A2 and WZ853, with effect values of 3.97, 2.86, 2.55, 2.13, 1.14, 0.75 and 0.74, respectively. There were 8 hybrid combinations with the special combining ability effect values greater than 7, ranging from 7.46 to 10.64. The inbred lines showed positive general combining ability for nitrogen fertilizer agronomic efficiency were WZ14212, 1734A10, WZ853, 195-73, WZ1718-2 and 1735A2, with effect values of 9.96, 5.06, 4.63, 2.45, 1.78 and 1.55, respectively. There were 11 hybrid combinations with the special combining ability effect values greater than 10, ranging from 10.95 to 24.86. Correlation analysis showed that under low nitrogen stress, there was a significant positive correlation between the single plant grain weight of hybrid combinations and the general combining ability of the single plant grain weight with male parent inbred line, r were 0.2921^*; there were highly significant and significant positive correlations between nitrogen fertilizer agronomic efficiency of hybrid combinations and the general combining ability of nitrogen fertilizer agronomic efficiency with its diploid inbred lines, r were 0.3848^** and 0.3289^*, respectively; and there were highly significant positive correlations between both the single plant grain weight and agronomic efficiency of nitrogen fertilizer in hybrid combinations with their total combining ability effects, r were 0.9669^** and 0.9455^**, respectively. The results suggested that WZ14212, WZ1718-2, Z7A-21, 1734A10, 1734B325, 1735A2 and WZ853 could be inbred lines developing hybrid combinations with high single plant grain weight and nitrogen fertilizer agronomic efficiency in maize breeding programs.

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Analysis of Applicability of MaizeSM Model for Maize Growth Simulation in Tumd Left Banner

ZHANG Lanjing, LIANG Yan, GAO Qi, SU Lijun, SUN Shangyu, YUN Lei, WANG Yiming

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (20): 106-112. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2024-0472

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In order to assess the suitability of MaizeSM crop model in Tumd Left Banner, a global sensitivity analysis method was employed to identify sensitive parameters of the model. Subsequently, localized model parameters were calibrated using maize variety data from experimental fields, meteorological observations, soil physical and chemical data, and field management records spanning 2010 to 2022. This calibration enabled accurate simulation and prediction of local maize growth processes and characteristics across different stages. Accuracy of simulation results was verified using actual yield and growth period duration indicators. The results showed that findings revealed nine sensitive parameters within the model, with k₁ (emerging-joining stage basic development coefficient) being identified as most sensitive while TR₁ (stem sheath storage transport efficiency parameter before flowering) exhibited minimal sensitivity. Strong correlations between simulated values for each growth period and actual values were observed, with normalized root-mean-square error (NRMSE) below 30% and root-mean-square error (RMSE) falling within an acceptable range. The crop model can simulate the local maize growth well. The crop model demonstrates good simulation performance for local maize growth. The localized maize growth simulation model, MaizeSM, with improved parameters, has enhanced the refined yield prediction based on station-scale agricultural meteorological services. This further strengthens the application capabilities of agricultural models in climate change impact assessment, operational services, and agricultural production in the Tumd Left Banner region. These advancements assist agricultural managers in formulating optimal planting strategies to achieve maximum production efficiency.

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Effect of Nitrogen Application Rate on Summer Maize Yield Under Different Densities

MENG Zhanying, WANG Yuhong, GUO Dang, TIAN Wenzhong, LI Junhong, LI Fang, LYU Junjie

Journal of Agriculture 2025, 15 (7): 23-27. DOI: 10.11923/j.issn.2095-4050.cjas2024-0229

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To clarify the interaction effects of planting density and N-fertilization rate of summer maize, the maize varieties ‘DH605’ and ‘MY73’ were used as experimental materials, 2 densities (67500 plants/hm², 82500 plants/hm² ) and 2 N-fertilization rate (210 kg/hm², 300 kg/hm²) were set to analyze the effects of density and N-fertilization on summer maize yield. The results showed that as the density increased, the effective number of ears increased, and yield increased by 18.0%, while the number of grains per spike and the number of grains per row decreased significantly; increasing N-fertilization rate could reduce the adverse effects of densification on maize plant yield and ear traits. The yield increased by 6.0%, the kernels per ear increased by 2.6%, and the leaf area per plant increased by 6.4%. Density and N-fertilization rate mainly affected the kernels per ear. ‘MY73’ had higher yield, better ear characteristics and leaf area under high-density and high N-fertilization rate conditions. It was found that the adverse effects of maize plant and population competition after increasing planting density could be regulated by appropriate increase of nitrogen fertilizer. Therefore, when the planting density of the two varieties increased to 82500 plants/hm², the N-fertilization rate of 300 kg/hm² was more likely to achieve high yield. The study is expected to provide some technical support for the synergistic improvement of summer maize quality and yield in western Henan.

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Climatic Characteristics of Summer High Temperature Weather in Middle of Hexi Corridor and Its Effects on Maize Production

YIN Xuelian, WANG Xing, GUO Pingping, YANG Huan

Journal of Agriculture 2025, 15 (7): 65-73. DOI: 10.11923/j.issn.2095-4050.cjas2024-0124

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In this paper, the evolution characteristics (spatiotemporal distribution, persistence, intensity, etc.) of summer high temperature days and heat waves in the middle of Hexi Corridor were studied, and the effects on the growth and yield components of maize during the critical period were analyzed, providing theoretical foundations for the development of early warning of high temperature events, risk prediction, maize flowering and yield forecasting services in the region. Based on daily maximum air temperature data from June to August at meteorological stations in the middle of Hexi Corridor from 1961 to 2023, linear trend, Mann-Kendall test and other methods were used to reveal the frequency, process, intensity characteristics and evolution of high temperature weather, and to analyze the effects on the growth traits and yield components such as 100-seed weight of maize, the local dominant crop. The results indicated that high temperature weather in the middle of Hexi Corridor mainly occurred in the desert oasis from late July to early August. An abrupt change of high temperature weather took place in the late 1990s. About the number of (hazardous) high temperature days and heat waves, big interannual changes, massive occurrences in a short time and an upward trend were discovered. There was a significant negative correlation between the number of high temperature days and the spike period. The intervals between tasseling and silking stages in years with more high temperature days were equal or shorter than the climatological normal. In years with more high temperature days in the jointing-booting stage, the tasseling-silking stages were simultaneous or delayed compared to climatological normals. The number of high temperature days during and after the flowering stage was significantly negatively correlated with 100-seed weight (R=-0.8495). For every additional day, the 100-seed weight decreased by 1.345 grams. Finally, it is proposed to establish an intelligent agricultural monitoring network to predict disasters, carry out experiments on high temperature meteorological applicable technologies and screen high temperature resistant varieties to cope with high temperature risk, so as to ensure high quality and high yield of maize.

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Comparative Advantage Analysis of Corn Planting Regions in Yunnan Province

MAO Zhaoqing, ZHANG Xiaojiao, YUAN Yuan, YAN Wenguang, WAN Siqi, LI Chunlin, LU Yan, DONG Xiaobo

Journal of Agriculture 2025, 15 (7): 84-92. DOI: 10.11923/j.issn.2095-4050.cjas2024-0088

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To clarify the comparative advantage characteristics of corn planting regions in Yunnan Province, based on the corn planting region and yield data of 16 prefectures and cities in Yunnan Province from 2000 to 2020, production scale index, production concentration index, scale comparative advantage index, efficiency comparative advantage index, and comprehensive comparative advantage index were used to calculate and analyze. The results showed that: (1) the corn planting regions in Yunnan Province were concentrated in the northeast and south, especially in Qujing, Zhaotong, and Wenshan. (2) Qujing, Zhaotong, Wenshan, Pu'er, and Lincang had contributed the most to the total corn planting area in the province, which concentrated more than half of the total maize planting area in the province. (3) Qujing, Zhaotong, Wenshan, Dali, and Honghe had contributed the most to the province's corn yield, accounting for more than half of the total corn yield in the province. (4) The comparative advantage of corn production scale in Yunnan Province was generally on the rise, while the comparative advantage of corn production efficiency and comprehensive comparative advantage were generally stable. The comprehensive advantageous production regions had been formed in the northeast regions such as Zhaotong and Qujing, the southeast regions such as Wenshan, and the southwest regions such as Lincang, and the northwest regions such as Nujiang and Diqing. The scale comparative advantage accelerated the continuous enhancement of the polarization effect of comprehensive comparative advantage. In order to accelerate the high-quality development of the corn industry in Yunnan Province, it is necessary to continuously ensure policy support for advantageous corn planting regions, gradually tap into the production potential of corn planting comparative advantages, and appropriately reduce the proportion of corn in non advantageous corn planting regions.

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Effects of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Rationing on Root Morphological Characteristics of Silage Maize in Yulin Wind and Sand Area

CHANG Xuerong, SHI Lei, XU Weizhou, HAN Xia, QIAO Yu, BU Yaojun

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (19): 1-11. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2025-0268

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To investigate the characteristics of the dynamic changes of root morphology of silage maize in different periods under the conditions of nitrogen and phosphorus rationing in the wind and sand area of Yulin, silage maize (Zea mays) ‘Dajingjiu 23’ was used as the research object. A two-factor test was set up for nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers, with the nitrogen application of no nitrogen (N0, 0 kg/hm²), low nitrogen (N90, 90 kg/hm²), medium nitrogen (N180, 180 kg/hm²), medium-high nitrogen (N270, 270 kg/hm²) and high nitrogen (N360, 360 kg/hm²); and phosphorus was applied as no phosphorus (P0, 0 kg/hm²), low phosphorus (P90, 90 kg/hm²) and high phosphorus (P180, 180 kg/hm²). The biomass and root morphology of silage maize were measured at the trumpet stage, silking stage and harvesting stage. The results showed that the nitrogen-phosphorus rationing significantly promoted the longitudinal development of the root system at the trumpet stage, and the fresh weight, root length and surface area of the root system in the 10-20 cm soil layer increased by 73.9%-169.5%, 52.0%-136.4% and 75.1%-124.4%, respectively. Nitrogen-phosphorus rationing had a significant effect on the expansion of the shallow root system during the silking stage, with the fresh weight, dry weight and volume of the root system in the 0-10 cm soil layer increasing by 5.5%-69.3%, 3.9%-62.1% and 3.0%-91.4%, respectively. Nitrogen-phosphorus rationing effectively delayed root senescence at harvest, with increases of 28.5%-190.3% in fresh weight in the 10-20 cm soil layer, and increases of 50.0%-202.3% and 40.2%-158.8% in dry weight and volume in the 20-30 cm soil layer, respectively. The root indexes of each fertility stage showed that the fresh weight, dry weight, root length, surface area and volume of roots in the 0-20 cm soil layer were significantly better than those in the 20-40 cm layer. Through the comprehensive evaluation of the affiliation function, the optimal performance of the N180P180 program was observed, with the above-ground fresh and dry weights increasing by 24.7% and 44.7%, respectively, and the root development indexes showing a sustained gain. The fresh weights increased by 54.5%-91.1%, the dry weight increased by 28.5%-70.6%, the root length increased by 23.8%-70.8%, the total area increased by 52.1%-79.3%, and the total volume increased by 32.6%-98.9%, and a significant increase in the efficiency of nutrient uptake by the plant. In conclusion, the N180P180 dosage was favorable to promote the synergistic growth of maize above-ground and below-ground.

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Effects of Fertilization on Yield and Quality of Maize and Rapeseed in Upper Reaches of Chishui River Region and Discharge Amount of Fertilizer Pollution

LIU Haonan, YANG Juan, JIAO Meng

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (19): 73-80. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2025-0027

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The study aims to investigate the effects of fertilization on yield, quality, fertilizer use efficiency in maize (variety ‘Fuhua 22’) and rapeseed (variety ‘Yunyouza 15’) and discharge amount of fertilizer pollution, providing scientific guidance for optimizing fertilizer management of major crops in the upper reaches of the Chishui River. A field experiment with five treatments was implemented, including control (CK), phosphorus-potassium (PK), nitrogen-potassium (NK), nitrogen-phosphorus (NP), and nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (NPK), to assess their effects on crop yield, quality at maturity, fertilizer use efficiency, and discharge amount of fertilizer pollution. The results showed that the NPK treatment significantly increased rapeseed yield by 81.73% compared to CK, whereas the yield increases under nutrient-deficient treatments (PK, NK, NP) ranged only from 35.42% to 52.86%. In terms of quality, fertilization significantly increased the contents of fat, protein, oleic acid and erucic acid, but had no significant effects on palmitic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid or linolenic acid contents. Similarly, maize yield under NPK treatment increased by 90.00% compared to CK, whereas the yield increases under nutrient-deficient treatments (PK, NK, NP) ranged only from 42.74% to 79.24%. In terms of quality, the NPK treatment exhibited the highest maize starch and protein contents, which increased by 4.94% and 60.47%, whereas nutrient-deficient treatments demonstrated comparatively smaller increments. In addition, the study also found that the nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium utilization efficiencies of maize and rapeseed reached their highest levels under NPK fertilization conditions. Under NPK fertilization conditions, nitrogen and phosphorus pollution from maize and rapeseed fields were minimized, being significantly lower than those under nutrient-deficient treatments. In conclusion, balanced fertilization not only significantly enhanced crop yield and quality along with the fertilizer use efficiency, but also effectively mitigated agricultural non-point source pollution.

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Effects of Spraying Humic Acid on Yield and Benefit of Wheat and Summer Maize Under Different Soil Conditions

WANG Ruili, CUI Qinran, ZHAO Guangchun, YU Dongdong

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (19): 81-86. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2024-0801

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Using humic acid water-soluble fertilizer produced by Zhongcheng Guolian (Henan) Biotechnology Co., Ltd. as the test material, this study investigated the impact of foliar application of humic acid water-soluble fertilizers on the yield and yield factors of wheat and summer maize under different soil texture types in Shangqiu City. The paired test design was used, and the effects on economic benefits were also analyzed. The results showed that with foliar spraying of humic acid water-soluble fertilizer, the number of grains per ear, 1000-grain weight and both yield and economic benefits significantly increased. Statistical analysis revealed a highly significant increase in yield for both wheat and summer maize. The increase in yield and economic benefit varied across different soil texture types. For wheat, the highest yield increase and lowest yield increase rate occurred on silty soil. The highest increase rate and smallest yield increase were found on sandy soil. The order of net increase in economic benefit was silty soil> loamy soil> sandy soil. For summer maize, the yield increase ranking was silty soil> sandy soil> loamy soil, while the orders of increase rate and net increase in economic benefit were loamy soil> silty soil> sandy soil.

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Effects of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium Fertilizers and Micro Elements Application on Yield and Quality of Black Corn

FENG Zhizhen, CHEN Taichun, LU Yuxin, DOU Bingde, DAI Jiakun, BAI Yani, JIA Junchao, QIN Tao

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (18): 17-25. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2024-0768

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To explore the impacts of applying nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers, as well as micro elements, on the yield and quality of black corn, black corn ‘SK9179’, ‘SK9176’ and ‘SK9115’, which were self-selected breeding, were taken as test materials, and a multi-point comparison and repeated test design was carried out. The effects of formula fertilizers with nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium ratios of 2:1:2 and 2:1:1， and the supplementary application of the micro elements zinc and boron on the yield and quality of black corn were investigated. Both the 2:1:2 and 2:1:1 NPK ratios were found to enhance the yield and quality of black corn, with the ratio 2:1:2 demonstrating the most favorable results. Applying 0.75% zinc sulfate at the ratio of 2:1:2, the yield of ‘SK9179’ black corn reached the highest 18223.5 kg/hm², and the anthocyanin contents in the corn kernels and cobs were as high as 0.40% and 1.68%, respectively. However, the combined application of zinc sulfate and borax was observed to decrease the yield and quality of black corn. An excessive amount of nitrogen in the soil had a negative impact on the accumulation of anthocyanins and the formation of yield in black corn. Therefore, it was recommended that during the cultivation of black corn, the application amount of nitrogen fertilizer should be reduced, while the application amounts of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers should be increased.

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Effects of Strip Compound Planting of Maize and Peanut on Growth of Two Crops

LIU Haidong, CHEN Qingzheng, CAI Guihua, LIN Yanfei, HUANG Guangrong, QI Juncheng, ZHOU Yuyang, QIN Guobing, WU Chunling

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (18): 33-39. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2025-0005

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The experiment explored the effects of different row ratios of corn and peanut strip compound planting on the growth of two crops, aiming to find a suitable row ratio and provide theoretical support for field production. Taking‘Yamei 1’ corn variety and ‘Heyou 16’peanut variety as materials, the corn and peanut strip compound planting experiment was set up with six different intercropping row ratios of 2:4, 2:6, 2:8, 4:4, 4:6 and 4:8 and corn monoculture and peanut monoculture (recorded as: C₂P₄, C₂P₆, C₂P₈, C₄P₄, C₄P₆, C₄P₈, CK₁, CK₂). A random block design was adopted, each replicated three times, totaling 24 experimental cells. The SPAD value of leaves, plant agronomic traits, yield and other related indicators were measured during crop growth period. Compared with the monoculture, the yield per unit area of the two crops decreased to varying degrees, and the SPAD values of the leaves of the corn and peanut seedlings were not significantly different. Under the premise of the fixed number of corn planting rows, with the increase of the number of peanut planting rows in the middle and late stages of the growth period, the SPAD value of corn leaves, the actual yield and the SPAD value of peanut leaves, hundred fruit weight, hundred kernel weight, kernel rate and actual yield all showed an upward trend. The SPAD value, ear height, grain number per ear and seed rate of the 2-row corn planting belt were higher than those of the 4-row corn planting belt. The plant height, the first lateral branch length, the number of green leaves harvested, single kernel fruits, double kernel fruits, unfilled fruits and other indicators of C₄P₄ treatment were the highest. There was no significant difference in ear diameter and 100-grain weight of corn, but the four rows of corn planting belt significantly increased the bald tip length. Therefore, C₂P₈ (2 rows of corn and 8 rows of peanut) was suitable for the strip compound planting production of corn and peanut, and C₄P₄ (4 rows of corn and 4 rows of peanut) was the worst.

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Analysis of Coupling Status Between Precipitation and Water Use During Maize Growing Season in Liaoning Province

ZHANG Li

Journal of Agriculture 2025, 15 (6): 92-100. DOI: 10.11923/j.issn.2095-4050.cjas2024-0159

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To study the water balance during the maize growing season in Liaoning Province based on the meteorological data and crop coefficients in Liaoning Province from 1963 to 2022, the SIMETAW model and climate diagnostic analysis methods were used to analyze the precipitation, water demand patterns, and water satisfaction status during the maize growing season in Liaoning Province. The impact of regional climate change on maize water demand was revealed, and the spatio-temporal evolution of effective precipitation and water demand during the maize growing season in Liaoning Province was studied. The research results showed that the effective precipitation during the whole growth period reached 481.6 mm. Among them, it was 347.4 mm in the west, 514.9 mm in the central and southern parts, and 636.8 mm in the east. The average water demand during the whole growth period of maize was 521 mm, showing no significant downward trend. The average coupling degree between precipitation and water demand during the whole growth period of maize was 0.715, that is, precipitation met 71.5% of the water demand, and the average water shortage was 28.5%. The guarantee rate of the coupling degree λ > 0.8 in the western region was only 28.3%. The maximum value of the coupling degree appeared in the east of Liaoning Province, followed by the central and southern parts of Liaoning Province, and the minimum value appeared in the west of Liaoning Province. The highest value of the coupling degree appeared during the flowering and pollination period, followed by the trumpet stage, and the lowest value appeared in the early growth stage and the maturity stage. In recent years, the coupling degree between precipitation and water demand in the early growth stage of maize has shown a significant upward trend. The coupling degree between precipitation and water demand in the early growth stage of maize is relatively low. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the occurrence of drought, especially in the western part of Liaoning Province where water resources are scarce.

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Relationship Between Morphological and Structural Characteristics of Corn Kernel and Its Breakage Resistance

HOU Liangyu, LI Wenjun, WANG Rurong, LAN Xuemei, CHENG Hongyu

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (17): 6-12. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2024-0575

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This study aimed to reveal the influence of the morphology and internal structure of corn kernel on its breakage resistance, providing a theoretical basis for the selection and breeding of corn cultivars suitable for mechanical grain harvesting. ‘DH618’, ‘DK159’ and ‘HM1’ were selected as tested cultivars, the morphological and structural parameters of kernel were obtained by CT scanning while kernel breaking force was measured by static compression test. The kernel of ‘DH618’was the largest in length (6.85-14.03 mm), thickness (4.22-7.64 mm) and volume (74.16-313.79 mm³), the proportion of its embryos in kernel was also the highest (10.49%-11.26%). The kernel of HM1 had the largest grain width (5.71-8.75 mm) and the highest subcutaneous cavity ratio (1.26%-2.05%). The relationship between the morphology, structure of corn kernel and its mechanical properties was identified, which would provide an essential reference for the study of corn kernel’s characters and conduce to the selection and breeding of corn cultivars favoring mechanical grain harvesting.

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Effect of Different Efficiency Enhancing DAP on Maize Growth in Soil of Xinjiang

KUANG Jialing, CHEN Yuewu, XU Ruo, LI Hongshu, CHEN Xu, WU Shengnan

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (17): 72-77. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2025-0009

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This study investigated the ecological adaptability of different efficiency-enhanced DAP fertilizers in soil of Xinjiang, aiming to identify novel DAP fertilizers with lower nutrient content that promote the growth of maize in Xinjiang. The research provided a reference for the selection and application of DAP fertilizers for maize in Xinjiang, while also offered a basis for cutting-edge research on low-nutrient, high-efficiency fertilizers in the region. Using 64% DAP without additives (high-nutrient fertilizer) as the control, comparisons were made with low-nutrient fertilizers, including 57% DAP with additive (formula A), 57% DAP with additive (formula B), 57% DAP with additive (formula C), 57% DAP with additive (formula D), 57% DAP with additive (formula E), and 57% DAP with additive (formula F). The growth morphology, physiological indicators and biomass of maize under different treatments were measured, and statistical methods such as regression analysis were applied to evaluate the results. The results showed that the addition of efficiency-enhancing additives promoted root development in maize plants and improved physiological indicators such as chlorophyll content and plant height. Low-nutrient DAP fertilizers with additives showed a tendency to outperform high-nutrient DAP fertilizers in promoting maize growth. The effects varied among different additive formulations, with formula A, formula E, and formula F demonstrating the most significant promotion effects on maize growth.

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Effect of Tillage Practices on Soil Aggregate Stability, Soil Quality and Maize Yield

GU Jiacheng, WANG Jiaping, ZHANG Zengcheng, JIANG Guiju, LI Luhua, CHENG Zhibo

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (17): 78-87. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2025-0211

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The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of tillage practices on soil properties, aggregate stability and soil quality, providing references for improving soil fertility and yield in drip-irrigated maize fields in Xinjiang. A field positioning experiment was conducted in Areoletuohai Ranch, Bole City, Xinjiang from 2022-2023 with the maize variety ‘Jinli1702’ as the test material. Four tillage treatments were set up, including conventional tillage with plastic film (CT), conventional tillage without plastic film (BT), no-tillage (NT) and shallow tillage (ST). The changes in soil properties, aggregate fractions and maize yield were analyzed to evaluate the effects of tillage practices on soil quality and maize yield. The results showed that compared with CT, both NT and ST significantly increased >2 mm aggregate contents, mean weight diameter (MWD), geometric mean diameter (GMD), and R_0.25 (P<0.05), indicating improved soil aggregate stability. Under the CT, soil temperature and moisture content were significantly higher than that in the NT and ST. Soil bulk density ranged from 1.35 to 1.70 g/cm³, with NT and ST showing significantly higher levels of available phosphorus, total nitrogen and organic carbon compared to CT. The soil quality index (SQI) in NT and ST increased by 19.82% and 15.29%, respectively, compared to CT. Maize yield under NT and ST was significantly higher than under CT and BT, reaching 20.67 t/hm² and 19.84 t/hm², respectively. But, there were no differences in ear grain number across four treatments, while the thousand-grain weight of NT was significantly higher than that of the others (P<0.05). Mantel analysis revealed significant positive correlations between yield and aggregate stability indices (MWD, GMD, D and R_0.25), soil properties, and SQI. Structural equation modeling showed that tillage practices affected soil quality by altering soil aggregate stability and soil properties, thereby indirectly influencing maize yield. The results showed that the yield of NT and ST increased by 9.13 % and 4.75 % compared with conventional tillage in drip irrigation maize farmland in Xinjiang, which had a significant effect on soil structure stability, soil quality and maize yield.

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Response of Spring Maize to Climate Warming and Humidification in Eastern Gansu Plateau

ZHOU Zhongwen, LIU Ying, QIU Ninggang

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (17): 88-95. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2024-0313

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In order to study the impact of climate change on the growth of spring corn in the Loess Plateau of eastern Gansu, the continuous 30-year climate factors and corn biological observation data from Xifeng in 1994-2023 were used to analyze facts of climate warming and humidification in eastern Gansu and their impact on corn by using linear regression, polynomial function, climate trend rate and other methods. The results showed that, over the past 30 years, the heat and precipitation during the growth period of spring corn in eastern Gansu had shown an increasing trend, while sunshine had shown a decreasing trend. The climate warming and humidification trend in the Loess Plateau of eastern Gansu was obvious, which had a significant impact on the growth and development of corn. Climate warming affected the growth cycle of corn, the sowing period of corn was delayed, the maturity period was advanced, the growth was shortened, and the planting boundary was expanded northward; climate warming and humidification made the growth height of corn, leaf area index, ear length, hundred grain, plant seed weight, theoretical yield and other indicators showed an increasing trend, and the positive effect of climate warming and humidification on the production of spring corn and agricultural in the Loess Plateau of eastern Gansu was significant. The yield of corn in the Loess Plateau of eastern Gansu was negatively correlated with average temperature, effective accumulated temperature and sunshine hours during the growth period, and was extremely significantly positively correlated with the precipitation during the growth period. The lack of water was the main limiting factor for the growth of crops in the Loess Plateau of eastern Gansu. Moisture affected the whole process of corn yield growth. The yield of corn was mainly affected by the amount and distribution of precipitation. In production, we should fully tap the potential of climate resources, adjust the planting, promote the scientific planting mode, introduce high-yielding and stress-resistant varieties, select the appropriate sowing period, dynamically increase or decrease the area of multiple cropping, water-saving irrigation, improve the disaster prevention and reduction system, control and prevent to improve quality and efficiency, and avoid harm to reduce the negative effects of climate change.

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Research on Prevention and Control Techniques of Diseases, Insects, and Weeds in Soybean and Corn Strip Compound Planting

LIU Daxin, JIN Yan, ZHANG Guofu, LI Zhiyong, MIAO Wang, LIU Zhen, GAO Xingxiang, LI Yufeng

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (15): 131-137. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2024-0721

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In order to clarify the occurrence pattern of pests, diseases, and weeds in the strip intercropping area of soybean and corn in the Huang-Huai-Hai region, and screen the optimal control plan, the experiment was conducted in Fangsi town of Yucheng County, Dezhou City, Shangdong Province. Using soybean ‘Qihuang 34’ and corn ‘Zhengdan 958’ as the test materials, this experiment designed to use different combinations of pesticides in each growth stage of soybean and maize for control, and the control effect of the combination on pests and weeds and the safety of soybean and maize were determined. The results showed that 35% fumediridinrustyl thiamethoxam microcapsule suspension seed coating, 30% pyraclostrobin pentazole suspension, 28% propylcyclamideazoxylamin suspension emulsion, 45% refined metolachlor and flumethachlor microcapsule suspension-suspension, 25% high-efficiency cyhalothrin microcapsule suspension and 15% azolamide and tick urea suspension were safe for soybean and corn at different growth stages. Before sowing of soybean and corn, 35% formethoxin and chlorfenaz microcapsule suspension seed coating agent were used, 30% pyraclostrobin pentazole suspension and 25% high-efficiency cyhalothrin microcapsule suspension were sprayed at the seedling stage, and 30% pyraclostrobin pentazole suspension was sprayed at the mature stage, and after spraying 30% pyraclostrobin pentazole suspension, 28% propylpyroxystrobin suspension emulsion, and 15% azolamide and tick urea suspension at the seedling stage, the control effect of soybean and corn disease was 41.72%-65.21%, and the pest control effect was 83.78%-88.16%. After sowing soybean and corn, 45% fine metolachlor microcapsule suspension and 33% refined metolachlor and propargylfluchlor microcapsule suspension-suspension were sprayed before seedlings, and the control effect of weeds in the field was 87.58%-90.77%. In summary, this combination of agents can effectively control the occurrence of pests and weeds in soybean and corn, and has no obvious impact on the growth of soybean and corn, and has high economic benefits.

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Effects of Different Field Configurations of Soybean and Maize Strip Intercropping on Agronomic Traits and Yield of Soybean

HE Haochen, WEI Xinru, YANG Wujie, ZHOU Chang'an, WANG Yanling, WANG Mei, YAO Yuan, YANG Jiutao, LI Mingli, HAN Qian, LIU Xin

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (15): 15-22. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0870

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In the banded compound planting pattern of soybean and maize, choosing the suitable field configuration is crucial to improve the soybean yield. In order to further explore the reasonable field configuration of soybean and maize, four types of configurations are set, namely 2M2S, 2M4S, 2M6S, 3M4S (M for corn and S for soybean). Using monoculture soybean (SS) and monoculture corn (SM) as controls, intercropping soybean yield, dry matter accumulation and distribution, and plant morphology were studied. The results showed that the yield of each corn was SM > 2M2S > 2M4S > 3M4S > 2M6S. The yield of intercropping corn was 3.22%-20.23% lower than that of single planting corn. The yield of intercropping soybean was 40.18%-60.5% lower than that of single cropping soybean. The yield of soybean in each configuration from high to low was SS > 2M6S > 2M4S > 3M4S > 2M2S. The yield of soybean in 2M6S configuration increased by 18.88%-51.47% compared with other intercropping configurations. In each intercropping configuration, with the increase of soybean rows, soybean SPAD, leaf area index (LAI) and stem thickness all increased, and the plant height decreased. The leaf SPAD content of 2M6S soybean increased by 0.55% to 7.63% compared with other intercropping configurations. The soybean leaf area index (LAI) of the 2M6S configuration was 9.02%-69.59% higher than that of other intercropping configurations. The soybean stem thickness of the 2M6S configuration was 4.76% to 23.94% higher than that of other intercropping configurations. Compared with monoculture soybean, the plant height increased by 17.52% to 37.50%, and the height of soybean strain in 2M2S configuration was higher than that in other intercropping configurations. The quantitative results of soybean agronomic traits and yields under different configurations of banded compound planting of soybean and maize can provide a basis for screening configurations.

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Effect of Cultivation and Fertilization Coupling on Maize Productivity Improvement of Acidified Soil in Rocky Desertification Areas

XU Xiaojian, HE Daowen, FAN Bo, ZHAO Baoyi, HUANG Nai, LEI Baokun, MAO Yanting

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (15): 78-87. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2024-0784

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The study aimed to explore the impact of the coupling of different cultivation and fertilization measures on the corn productivity of acidified soil in rocky desertification areas, providing a basis for the improvement of acidified soil and crop yield increase in rocky desertification areas. In 2023, a soil acidification improvement experiment was carried out in Muzhe Village, Xichou County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. The experiment included the following treatments: (1) fertilization measures: no fertilization (NK), chemical fertilizer (CK); (2) cultivation measures: intercropping of maize and soybean (INT); (3) coupling of cultivation and fertilization measures: technology integration (TI). There were 3 categories with 4 treatment measures in total to study the impact of the coupling of cultivation and fertilization measures on soil improvement, maize yield, maize nitrogen, dry matter accumulation and distribution, as well as the impact of environmental factors on maize yield. The results showed that at the harvest stage, the soil pH of TI, INT, NK and CK treatments were pH 6.12, 6.03, 6.02 and 5.97, respectively. The maize grain yields of TI, INT, CK and NK treatments were 10321.44, 9760.92, 8116.14 and 5732.18 kg/hm², respectively. The TI and INT significantly (P<0.05) increased the maize yield per unit area, while no fertilization significantly (P<0.05) decreased the maize yield. The proportion of grain nitrogen in above-ground nitrogen for INT, TI, and CK treatments was 50.25%, 50.91% and 57.39%, respectively. The proportion of grain dry matter in above-ground dry matter for INT, TI, and CK treatments was 49.19%, 51.40% and 54.13%, respectively. The trends of nitrogen distribution ratio and dry matter distribution ratio were the same for INT, TI, and CK treatments. The factors affecting crop yield were different at different growth stages of the crop. At the maize seedling stage, the factors affecting yield were nitrate nitrogen content, soil pH and ammonium nitrogen content, with explanatory degrees of 76.4%, 7.8% and 6.6%, respectively. At the vigorous vegetative growth stage of maize, the factors affecting yield were available phosphorus content and available potassium content, with explanatory degrees of 76.9% and 12.4%, respectively. At the reproductive growth stage of maize, the available potassium content, as a factor affecting yield, had an explanatory degree of 59.6%. The following conclusions could be drawn: (1) maize-soybean intercropping could increase the maize yield per unit area. The coupling of cultivation and fertilization measures could further increase the yield by increasing the proportion of dry matter distributed to grains, and could significantly increase the soil pH. (2) Intercropping would reduce the nitrogen transfer ratio of the above-ground vegetative organs of maize plants and weaken the contribution rate to grain nitrogen accumulation. Compared with intercropping, the coupling of cultivation and fertilization measures could increase the nitrogen transfer ratio of the above-ground vegetative organs of maize plants and the contribution rate to grain nitrogen accumulation. (3) Crops had different fertilizer requirements at different growth stages. Maize was sensitive to soil pH, ammonium nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen content at the seedling stage; it was sensitive to soil available phosphorus and available potassium content at the vigorous vegetative growth stage, and it was sensitive to soil available potassium content at the reproductive growth stage.

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Meteorological Elements Variation Trends and Meteorological Yield Prediction Model for Maize at Different Growth Stages in Shenyang

WANG Yue, FEI Wenli, CHENG Jun, SHEN Lidu, ZOU Xiuming, ADIL Alim

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2025, 41 (15): 95-101. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2024-0254

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To investigate the trends of meteorological elements at different growth stages of maize in Shenyang and their impact on meteorological yield, the Mann-Kendall test was employed to analyze the mean values of four meteorological elements (i.e., air temperature, precipitation, relative humidity, and wind speed) during the sowing, jointing, tasseling-milk, and maturity stages and annual meteorological yield from 2000 to 2021. The impact of climate change on the meteorological yield of maize was studied. Results showed that there was no significant trend in air temperature during the sowing and jointing stages. Before 2017, there was a downward trend during the tasseling-milk stage, followed by an upward trend. Before 2008, there was an upward trend during the maturity stage, followed by a downward trend. Precipitation showed an upward trend during the sowing and tasseling-milk stages, while there was no significant trend during the jointing and maturity stages. The relative humidity showed no significant trend during the sowing stage, while it exhibited an increasing trend during the jointing, tasseling-milk, and maturity stages. The wind speed showed a decreasing trend in all four stages. In years with higher meteorological yields, air temperature and precipitation during the four stages were generally higher, relative humidity was higher during the jointing and tasseling-milk stages, and wind speed was slightly lower during the four stages. In years with lower meteorological yields, air temperatures were slightly lower during the growth stages except the sowing stage, precipitation was excessively high, relative humidity was slightly higher during the tasseling-milk and maturity stages, and wind speed was excessively low. Based on the Pearson correlation coefficient, the main influencing factors selected were precipitation and relative humidity during the sowing stage, wind speed during the jointing stage, precipitation during the tasseling-milk stage, and temperature and wind speed during the maturity stage. Based on the above factors and the random forest algorithm, a meteorological yield prediction model was constructed, which could effectively simulate the trend of meteorological yield. This study can provide the theoretical basis for maize industry management, risk assessment, and agricultural sustainable development in Shenyang.

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Analysis of High Yield, Stable Yield and Adaptability of New National Approval Maize Variety ‘Xundan 996’

JIN Hailei, ZHANG Huiyu, ZHANG Zhifang, XU Guoju, WANG Liangfa

Journal of Agriculture 2025, 15 (5): 7-11. DOI: 10.11923/j.issn.2095-4050.cjas2024-0043

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In order to comprehensively understand the production characteristics and application value of the national approved maize variety ‘Xundan 996’, the high yield, stability and adaptability of ‘Xundan 996’ were statistically analyzed by means of yield average, coefficient of variation, high stability coefficient, and regression coefficient using the data of the regional test and production test in Huang-Huai-Hai summer maize area from 2019 to 2020. The results showed that the average regional trial yield and production trial yield of ‘Xundan 996’ were 10431.8 kg/hm² and 9904.5 kg/hm², increasing by 3.6% and 4.6% compared with the control‘Zhengdan 958’, respectively. In the 2-year regional test, the coefficient of variation of yield was 16.73% and 12.91%, both lower than the control. The high stability coefficients were 78.29% and 82.21%, respectively, which were both higher than the control. The regression coefficients were 0.9440 and 0.9398, which were both less than 1 and lower than that of the control. The yield increase rates were 64.1% and 82.1%, respectively. Meanwhile, the trial results indicate that ‘Xundan 996’ has good lodging resistance, disease resistance, and high temperature tolerance. Comprehensive analysis shows that ‘Xundan 996’ is a new maize variety with high and stable yield, wide adaptability, and strong stress resistance, which is suitable for large area planting in the summer maize area of Huang-Huai-Hai.

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