Maize

Select

Endosperm Cell Related-traits in Maize Grains: Heterosis Research

CHEN Zhe, SUN Xiaoyan, HE Wencun, WANG Anqi, SUN Aiqing, ZHAO Linmao, ZHANG Chunqing, WU Chenglai

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (12): 9-14. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0176

Abstract + (37) HTML (3) PDF (1266KB) (11)

To investigate the causes of the phenomenon of grain weight heterosis in maize, the number and size of endosperm cells in maize grains were studied. Maize varieties ‘Zhengdan 958’ and ‘Xianyu 335’ and their parents served as experimental materials for analyzing the heterosis relationship between hybrid and parents of grain weight, endosperm cell number and area. The results showed that the mid-parent heterosis of the endosperm number of ‘Xianyu 335’ and ‘Zhengdan 958’ was 40.81% and 36.03%, and the over-parent heterosis was 33.09% and 23.82%, respectively. The mid-parent heterosis of 100-grain weight of ‘Xianyu 335’ and ‘Zhengdan 958’ was 27.22% and 28.89%, and the over-parent heterosis was 19.72% and 18.34%, respectively. However, the mid-parent heterosis of endosperm cell area of ‘Xianyu 335’ and ‘Zhengdan 958’ was -44.42% and -24.79%, and the over-parent heterosis was -45.75% and -37.30%, respectively. The endosperm cell number was positively correlated with the grain weight, and the correlation coefficient was 0.796. In summary, the number of endosperm cells of the maize hybrid is more than that of their parents, which is the main reason for heterosis of grain weight. Selecting the inbred lines with large number of endosperm cells can effectively increase the grain weight of the hybrid in the hybrid combinations.

Select

Grain-related Traits in Maize: Genome-wide Association Analysis and Candidate Gene Prediction

CHEN Xinyi, LIU Chenyan, HUA Mingzhu, XU Xin, FENG Wenxiang, WANG Baohua, FANG Hui

Journal of Agriculture 2024, 14 (4): 26-36. DOI: 10.11923/j.issn.2095-4050.cjas2023-0092

Abstract + (18) HTML (3) PDF (2139KB) (33)

To explore the natural variations in regulating the maize kernel development and to assist in the genetic improvement of maize yield traits, in this study, 150 maize inbred lines with rich genetic variations were selected as materials for investigation. Combining 34,342 SNP markers and three models, a genome-wide association analysis was conducted on five grain-related traits. The results revealed that a total of 18 independent loci were significantly associated with the target traits, with each locus accounting for 12.24% to 15.41% of the phenotypic variations. Additionally, significant epistatic interactions were identified among four pairs of SNPs associated with kernel length, collectively explaining 5.32% of the phenotypic variations. By integrating the dynamic transcriptome data of kernel development in the B73 inbred line and functional annotations of genes, 19 candidate genes were predicted and classified into four categories: 6 enzymes, 3 ribosomal proteins, 1 transcription factor, and 9 other proteins. These candidate genes provide new genetic resources for deciphering the molecular mechanisms of maize kernel development and enhancing maize kernel size and yield. Through this research, we have not only uncovered the natural variations that regulate the development of corn kernels but also provided new genetic resources for the genetic improvement of corn yield traits. These findings are expected to bring new breakthroughs in corn breeding efforts, enhance corn production, and thereby better meet human needs for food.

Select

Preliminary Screening of Soybean Varieties Suitable for Intercropping with Corn in Zibo

LIU Weixia, LU Duxu, LU Zhenyu, ZHANG Chao, ZHAI Jiqing, ZHAI Naijia, WANG Guangming

Journal of Agriculture 2024, 14 (4): 7-13. DOI: 10.11923/j.issn.2095-4050.cjas2023-0073

Abstract + (226) HTML (2) PDF (1344KB) (19)

The aim is to promote the healthy and stable development of the corn industry, adjust and optimize the corn planting structure, enrich diversified planting patterns in Zibo City, and achieve the purpose of green, high-quality and efficient production. This study analyzed the comprehensive performance of intercropping between the same corn variety and different soybean varieties, and selected suitable soybean varieties for local intercropping cultivation preliminarily. The results showed that under the same meteorological environment, the incidence of northern leaf blight and smut of maize in intercropping mode was mild, and there was little difference in other characters. The growth period of early maturing and shade tolerant soybean varieties such as ‘Hedou 23’, ‘Hedou 12’, and ‘Qihuang 34’ was 1-3 days shorter than other varieties. They had strong resistance to Riptortuspedestris, moderate and stable main stem height, node number, and bottom pod height. The grain weight per plant was 0.53-1.72 g higher than other varieties, and the yield was 88.81-214.59 kg/hm² higher than other varieties. Overall, varieties such as ‘Hedou 23’, ‘Hedou 12’, and ‘Qihuang 34’ were suitable for intercropping of corn and soybean in Zibo region.

Select

Dynamic Monitoring of Maize Root Growth Under Different Tillage Operations Based on Minirhizotron Technique

PENG Wei, FU Meiling, RAN Enhua, ZHU Xiangming

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (10): 1-11. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0376

Abstract + (57) HTML (13) PDF (1609KB) (34)

To explore the dynamic characteristics of maize root growth in the northeast black soil region after the change from traditional tillage to conservation tillage, and evaluate the suitability of conservation tillage and the feasibility of minirhizotron technique, the minirhizotron technique was used to continuously monitor maize roots in situ under three tillage methods, including no tillage (NT), rotary tillage (RT) and strip tillage (ST), and compared with the traditional soil drilling method. The results showed that the influence of tillage treatments on root morphological indexes gradually extended from surface to subsurface soil with the growing period, and the influence indexes also increased with it. It was found that more than 65% of maize roots under different tillage treatments distributed in 0-30 cm soil layer. After seedling stage, the total root length and root length density of ST treatment were significantly higher than those of other treatments, while the differences were significant only at maturity stage (P<0.05). The regulation of root configuration and distribution by tillage methods was mainly achieved by influencing soil water content and penetration resistance. The average water content of ST was the highest in the whole soil profile. The soil penetration resistance of NT in 0-15 cm soil layer was significantly higher than that of ST and RT, with the highest value of 1558.20 KPa. The soil penetration resistances of all treatments in 15-45 cm soil layer were very close. The relative error of maize root length density obtained by minirhizotron method and that obtained by soil drilling method was basically less than 10%. In this experiment, the change of tillage method could significantly affect root morphological characteristics such as root surface area, volume, diameter and root length density, etc. Soil water content and penetration resistance also had great influence on crop roots. The root length density obtained by minirhizotron method had good correlation with that obtained by soil drilling method. The combination of the two methods would be useful in monitoring the dynamic growth of crop roots in future.

Select

Establishment of Evaluation Model for Eating Quality of Waxy Corn

CHENG Yujing, WANG Xiaoqiu, GE Lijiao, QIU Liang, ZHAI Caijiao, SONG Xudong, ZHANG Zhenliang, WANG Ximeng

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (9): 157-164. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0121

Abstract + (45) HTML (2) PDF (1192KB) (14)

The aims were to evaluate the eating quality difference of different waxy corn varieties, and screen the germplasm of waxy corn with excellent eating quality. In this study, 19 fresh waxy corn varieties from different sources were used as experimental materials, 17 eating quality traits included peel traits, grain water content, soluble sugar content, starch viscosity RVA characteristic values, and starch content were determined in 19 fresh waxy corn varieties. Variation analysis, correlation analysis, and principal component analysis were used to establish a comprehensive evaluation model for eating quality of waxy corn and screen the waxy corn varieties with excellent eating quality. The results showed that starch viscosity RVE characteristic values, such as peak viscosity, final viscosity, setback viscosity, and consistence viscosity among 19 waxy corn varieties had large coefficient of variation, significant correlation with each other, and occupied a high load in principal component 1, which could better reflect the difference of eating quality of waxy corn. The comprehensive score values of 19 waxy corn varieties showed that ‘YN811’ ‘291’ and ‘Jingnuo 832’ had higher principal component comprehensive scores and taste scores. In conclusion, the starch viscosity RVE characteristic values, such as peak viscosity, final viscosity, setback viscosity, and consistence viscosity, are the key evaluation indexes for identifying the eating quality of waxy corn. ‘YN811’ ‘291’ and ‘Jingnuo 832’ are the high-quality waxy corn varieties with better eating quality.

Select

Effect of Reducing Chemical Fertilizer and Applying Organic Fertilizer on the Growth and Yield of Maize in Dry Farming Area

BIAN Jinxia, WANG Ping

Journal of Agriculture 2024, 14 (3): 13-20. DOI: 10.11923/j.issn.2095-4050.cjas2023-0186

Abstract + (76) HTML (5) PDF (1456KB) (35)

The purpose is to study the effects of organic fertilizer replacing partial chemical fertilizer on maize growth and yield, and to assess the feasibility of achieving high yield by reducing chemical fertilizer. A two-year (2019 to 2020) field experiment was carried out using maize ‘Jinkai 5’ with six treatments including no fertilizer (CK), commercial organic fertilizer (T₁), traditional chemical fertilizer (T₂), traditional chemical fertilizer plus commercial organic fertilizer (T₃), traditional chemical fertilizer reduction 15% plus commercial organic fertilizer (T₄) and traditional chemical fertilizer reduction 30% plus commercial organic fertilizer (T₅) by a randomized blocks design. The results showed that compared with CK, all fertilization treatments in 2 years could promote the growth of maize, significantly increase the dry matter accumulation of vegetative organs, and improve the agronomic efficiency and partial fertilizer productivity of maize yield. The order of influence on growth and yield was T₃>T₄>T₅>T₂>T₁>CK. Compared with T₂, the plant height, spike height, leaf area index, accumulation of dry matter at different growth stages, yield, water use efficiency and agricultural efficiency of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers of each organic fertilizer substitution treatment (T₄ and T₅) increased by 0.24%-3.12%, 0.28%-3.27%, 2.36%-8.91%, 4.14%-24.40%, 4.38%-11.20%, 9.06%-13.20%, and 0.44%-24.80%, respectively. In conclusion, replacing partial chemical fertilizer with organic fertilizer (T₃, T₄, and T₅) could significantly improve maize growth and increase yield. The 30% reduction in fertilizer application (T₅) will not adversely affect the yield of maize, and replacing partial chemical fertilizer with organic fertilizer (T₅) was a fertilizer saving and high efficient fertilization method for increasing water use efficiency, agronomic efficiency of fertilizer and nitrogen partial fertilizer productivity in the dry farming area.

Select

Effect of Potassium Application Rate on Absorption, Transport and Yield of Maize Potassium

ZHANG Zhengzhen, MU Ruirui, WANG Jia, XU Can, CHEN Yongwei, ZHANG Zhansheng, WU Hongliang, KANG Jianhong

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (8): 47-56. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0292

Abstract + (65) HTML (8) PDF (1590KB) (13)

To study the response of maize population dry matter, yield, nutrient absorption and transport to potassium, a field experiment was conducted in Pingjibao, Yinchuan City, Ningxia from 2018 to 2019, with 6 potassium fertilizer dosages of 0, 60, 120, 180, 240 and 300 kg/hm². The results showed that potassium application significantly improved the dry matter accumulation, potassium absorption, transportation and utilization efficiency of corn. The best potassium application rate was 180 kg/hm², and the dry matter accumulation in the mature stage increased by 3.04% to 13.80% compared to the control, while the potassium accumulation in the ear increased by 32.17% to 42.57% compared to the control. Under potassium application, the potassium transport amount increased by 20.28%-68.73%, the potassium transport rate increased by 10.16%-30.37%, and the contribution rate of transported nutrients to grains increased by 20.40%-67.71%. Compared with other potassium application treatments, the potassium absorption and utilization efficiency of 180 kg/hm² increased by 20.09%-247.97%, the potassium agronomic utilization efficiency increased by 37.47%-221.27%, and the yield increased by 6.99%-18.14%. Taking into account factors such as corn yield, nutrient accumulation and transportation, and fertilizer utilization, the potassium application rate of 180 kg/hm² was more suitable under the experimental conditions

Select

Study on Drought of Spring Maize Based on Scintillation Flux and Soil Moisture

DAI Xinyu, LIU Cong, LI Qi, DEKYI Droma, WU Dongli

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (8): 68-73. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0321

Abstract + (57) HTML (2) PDF (1439KB) (10)

To identify drought conditions at different fertility stages within the growing season of spring maize in Huailai County, Hebei Province, this study calculated a revised crop water deficit index (RCWDI) by using the actual evapotranspiration instead of potential evapotranspiration for spring maize in 2021 in Huailai County, Hebei Province based on the data from the large-aperture scintillometer observation system. According to the actual drought grade of spring maize obtained by soil relative humidity, the drought grade of RCWDI was reconstructed and verified by the data of 2019. The results showed that there was a significant correlation between precipitation and actual evapotranspiration during the fertility period of spring maize in 2021 in Huailai County, and the cumulative value of the difference between precipitation and evapotranspiration could reflect the drought situation of spring maize. The drought of spring maize in Huailai County in 2021 mainly occurred from sowing to jointing stage. Drought ratings obtained by RCWDI in 2019 are up to 80% similar to those based on soil moisture. The study shows that the revised crop water deficit index and its drought grade based on scintillation flux have certain applicability.

Select

Effects of Deep Ditch Mulching on Harvesting Time and Yield of Sweet-waxy Maize

DU Rushan, LU Baohong, WANG Zhihong, MA Hailin

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (7): 1-7. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0261

Abstract + (127) HTML (7) PDF (1269KB) (59)

In order to extend the consumption cycle of fresh ears and the processing period of sweet-waxy corn enterprises, combined with the local planting habits in Xinzhou, Shanxi, a deep furrow mulching sowing method that integrates film mulching, furrow and ridge cultivation, and wide and narrow row was tested. By comparing it with the most widely used film side sowing, film top sowing, and bare land flat planting in local area, the following conclusions were drawn. Deep furrow film mulching formed a small greenhouse, which could increase the soil temperature by 13.73%-21.88% in April, and the higher accumulated temperature could promote the germination and growth of maize. The dry matter accumulation was significantly higher than that of other treatments in the early stage of maize growth. The final yield had no significant difference from other treatments, but the growth period was significantly shortened. The harvest time of sweet-waxy corn can be 4 to 19 days ahead of the schedule, so as to achieve early sowing and early harvest.

Select

Variation Characteristics and Correlation Analysis of Meteorological Elements During Maize Growth Period in Yangquan City

MA Xiaoling, ZHOU Yanbo, YUAN Jie, ZHANG Jianjun, JIA Liting

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (7): 118-122. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0281

Abstract + (75) HTML (3) PDF (1221KB) (28)

In order to study the variation trend of meteorological factors in maize growth period and their influence on maize yield, the daily data of six meteorological factors and annual maize yield data in Yangquan City from April to September of 2002 to 2021 were analyzed using different methods such as M-K mutation test and Spearman correlation test. It was found that the average temperature, daily maximum and daily minimum temperature all showed an increasing trend during maize growth period, and the average temperature and daily minimum temperature increased significantly after 2018.The relative humidity and sunshine hours showed a downward trend, while the precipitation showed an upward trend, and the change trend was not significant. From 2002 to 2021, the actual yield of maize in Yangquan City showed a fluctuating upward trend, while the trend yield was rapid increased and then slow decreased, and the meteorological output showed a slow growth trend, but the difference between years was obvious. Average relative humidity and maximum temperature had the greatest influence on meteorological yield, reaching extremely significant correlation level, followed by precipitation and average temperature, showing significant correlation level, while minimum temperature and sunshine hours had no significant correlation with meteorological yield. The results can provide theoretical support for optimizing the structure of agricultural resources and promoting the sustainable development of regional agriculture.

Select

Study on the Dynamics of Filament Vigor and Seed Setting of Maize Hybrids

ZHAO Shuzheng, YANG Meili, LU Hongwei, SU Yujie, CHENG Jianmei, WANG Bangtai, QIN Guiwen

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (6): 36-41. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0262

Abstract + (64) HTML (4) PDF (1132KB) (8)

The aim was to clarify the dynamic changes of filaments vigor and the setting rate at different day-ages of maize hybrids, and provide a better theoretical basis for maize breeding and production. This study selected maize hybrids ‘Yongyou 1573’ ‘Yongyou 1583’ and ‘Zhengdan 958’ as experimental materials to measure their daily silk production quantity and length, different day-age silk setting rates, and pollination ear traits. The results showed that the daily silking quantity of corn hybrids showed a trend of rapid to slow increase, and the peak of daily silking length was on the second day of silking. As the number of days of silking increases, the dynamic changes of panicle length, panicle diameter, panicle grain weight, and seed setting rate after pollination were basically increasing first and then decreasing. The peak of panicle diameter appeared on the 4th to 5th day of silking, while the peak of panicle length, panicle grain weight, and seed setting rate all appeared on the 6th to 7th day of silking, with differences among varieties; On the 1st to 4th day of silking, the weight of 100 grains pollinated was higher than that of the control, with bald tips and decreasing day by day. The changes in filament vitality and pollination seed setting rate reflected by the research results have certain reference value in both efficient maize breeding and field production, thus achieving the breeding goal of high yield.

Select

Preliminary Study on Summer Interplanting Silage Maize in Alfalfa Field in Huang-Huai-Hai Region

GAO Run, WU Bo, CHEN Yan, LIU Yi, ZHANG Jinhong, XU Ruixuan, WANG Guoliang

Journal of Agriculture 2024, 14 (2): 1-6. DOI: 10.11923/j.issn.2095-4050.cjas2023-0088

Abstract + (80) HTML (7) PDF (1200KB) (44)

The purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility of interplanting silage maize in summer in alfalfa field in Huang-Huai-Hai region, in order to improve the forage productivity of alfalfa field and to explore a new planting pattern for efficient forage planting. In our study, silage maize was interplanted in two-cutting alfalfa field, which was the third year of sowing in Huang-Huai-Hai region. After interplanted silage maize in alfalfa field, the forage productivity, its influence on weeds and economic benefits before and after interplanting were studied. Compared with monoculture alfalfa, interplanting silage maize significantly increased the total forage yield, land equivalent ratio and total economic benefit of alfalfa field. Interplanting silage maize with alfalfa can effectively reduce the species of weeds and inhibit the growth of weeds in alfalfa field in high temperature and high humidity season in summer. This study provides a theoretical basis for interplanting silage maize in alfalfa field in summer in Huang-Huai-Hai region, and puts forward an efficient planting and application pattern of alfalfa planting.

Select

Effects of Corn Stalks Composting on Soil Properties of Black Soil Region

YUAN Tao, AN Qi, NIU Yanbo, MENG Liqiang, WU Haoqiong, FAN Chuan, CAO Yabin

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (5): 47-52. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0649

Abstract + (69) HTML (3) PDF (1440KB) (15)

The experiments of straw composting and returning to the field were carried out according to the cold climate characteristics of autumn and winter in the Northeast region and the practical operational requirements. Field composting experiments were conducted after the harvest of corn in autumn, and the environmental temperature, precipitation, straw pile temperature and straw weight loss rate were continuously monitored. The fully decomposed corn straw was used as fertilizer and applied to the field for three consecutive years. The soil organic matter, available nitrogen, available phosphorus, available potassium, soil porosity and bulk density were monitored as indicators. A 2-year application experiment was carried out in basic farmland and shed protected areas. The results showed that the weight loss rate of 120 d straw reached 31.53%. By using rotten straw for three years, the soil organic matter increased by 4.06-6.31 g/kg, the alkaline hydrolyzable nitrogen in soil increased by 15.08-27.35 mg/kg, the available phosphorus increased by 18.11-21.95 mg/kg, quick-acting potassium increased by 63.97-89.93 mg/kg. The soil bulk density was reduced by 0.10-0.14 g/cm³. The water holding capacity of soil in the field increased by 7.51%-9.24% (V/V). The soil porosity increased by 3.69%-5.27% (V/V) (P≤0.05). In the application experiment in basic farmland and protected areas, there was a slight increase in available nutrients and organic matter, while bulk density and field water holding capacity had a significant change. The application of decomposed straw could reduce soil bulk density, increase soil porosity and field water holding capacity and improve soil compaction issues. Decomposed straw played a significant role in improving and conserving the properties of black soil.

Select

Effects of Low Temperature and Low Soil Moisture on Maize Germination

LI Jianping, REN Jingquan, MA Yanmin, WANG Dongni, CAO Tiehua, YANG Huibing, CHEN Changsheng

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (5): 9-15. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0230

Abstract + (80) HTML (5) PDF (1356KB) (38)

Maize varieties ‘Zhengdan 958’, ‘Jidan 50’, ‘Limin 33’, and ‘Xianyu 335’ were used as experimental materials to study the effects of low-temperature processes and low soil moisture on maize germination. Tests of low temperature and low soil moisture stresses on germination of 4 maize varieties were carried out in the phytotron combined with the regulation of soil relative humidity. The results showed that compared with the suitable temperature condition, the period from sowing to germination of the four varieties were prolonged by 3-9 days when the average temperature was below 10°C for more than 5 days and the relative humidity of the dry soil was between 50%-60%. The experimental data showed that the adverse effect of low temperature on germination and reaching 100% germination rate of maize was stronger than that of low soil moisture. The combined effect of low-temperature processes and low soil moisture on maize germination was more serious than the single effect of low temperature and low soil moisture. The effects of low temperature and low soil moisture on different maize varieties were different. The low temperature resistance was in the order of ‘Xianyu 335’>‘Zhengdan 958’>‘Limin 33’>‘Jidan 50’ while the drought resistance was in the order of ‘Xianyu 335’>‘Zhengdan 958’ and ‘Limin 33’>‘Jidan 50’. The low-temperature and drought resistance was in the order of ‘Zhengdan 958’>‘Xianyu 335’>‘Limin 33’>‘Jidan 50’.

Select

Isolation and Identification of Maize Melasma Pathogens in Zhangye of Gansu Province

QI Na, XU Yongfeng, WANG Aiwen, HE Shuwen, YANG Chengde

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (5): 97-104. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0164

Abstract + (61) HTML (5) PDF (2145KB) (14)

In order to identify the pathogenic fungi that caused maize melasma in Zhangye, Gansu Province, specimens with typical disease symptoms were collected in Zhangye City in September 2021,, tissue separation was used for isolation and purification, and the pathogenicity was verified by Koch's rule. Identification was performed by using morphological characteristics and molecular biology methods. The results showed that 39 isolates were obtained from diseased samples, of which 30 isolates caused disease symptoms similar to those observed in the field, the symptoms were rhizome rot, root rot and stem rot. According to the morphological characteristics, all 30 pathogens were identified as Fusariumspp. Fungi. Combined with molecular biology methods, 30 pathogenic Fusarium fungi were identified as Fusarium verticillioides, F. oxysporum, F. proliferatum, F. solani, F. incarnatum and F. flocciferum, with the isolation frequencies of 50.00%、20.00%、16.67%、6.67%、3.33% and 3.33%, respectively. Among them, F. verticillioidesis was the dominant pathogen of maize melasma in Zhangye City, and F. flocciferum was first reported to infect maize. The results of this study provide a basis for the diagnosis and prevention of maize melasma.

Select

Characteristics of Maize Yield and Fertilizer Efficiency in Yellow River Delta Based on Meta Analysis

LIANG Haibo, LI Shengdong, LIU Fenghua, CAO Yongchang, WANG Xiangling, XU Yan

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (4): 103-110. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0119

Abstract + (67) HTML (2) PDF (1713KB) (30)

To clarify yield distribution and fertilization effect of maize in the Yellow River Delta, this study analyzed 143 sets of data of maize filed experiments in different sector areas from 2010 to 2020, in which yield distribution, fertilizer use efficiency, yield gap contribution efficiency, relative yield, agronomic efficiency and partial factor productivity of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers were analyzed. The results showed that with an average yield of 6.81 t/hm², maize yield varied greatly from 2.63 to 9.52 t/hm² in different sector areas. The maize yield in the second sector was significantly lower than that in the first and third sectors. Applying nitrogen fertilizer increased maize yield by 40.88%, while phosphorus fertilizer by 8.49% and potassium fertilizer by 2.18%. Based on the model simulation of Boundary line, the yield gap was 3.01 t/hm², and the gap of high yield records was 2.49 t/hm². The yield gap contribution efficiency of nitrogen was the largest, followed by phosphorus fertilizer and potassium fertilizer. The relative yields of N, P and K fertilizer were 0.76, 0.99 and 1.05, respectively. The agronomic efficiency and partial factor productivity of nitrogen fertilizer were 8.64 and 33.78 kg/kg, while 2.85 and 86.12 kg/kg for phosphorus fertilizer, and 17.97 kg/kg and 148.01 kg/kg for potassium fertilizer. Nitrogen was the first limit factor of maize yield, which had a good effect on yield increasing, followed by phosphorus and potassium. Reducing nitrogen input and improving soil in the Yellow River Delta were effective measurements to decrease yield gap of maize, which will be helpful for increasing yield and saving fertilizer.

Select

Excellent Maize Inbred Line ‘Xun 696’: Breeding and Application

SU Yujie, ZHANG Xiaochun, CHENG Jianmei, ZHANG Sufen, SONG Junfeng, YANG Meili, ZHAO Shuzheng, QIN Guiwen, LU Hongwei

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (3): 41-45. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0064

Abstract + (135) HTML (3) PDF (1008KB) (23)

The aim is to provide a scientific basis for the improvement of excellent maize inbred lines, the breeding of hybrids and the innovation of maize germplasm. The base material was constructed by backcrossing the domestic inbred line ‘Zi340’ with the excellent single (S1) of the foreign hybrid ‘X1132X’, and the excellent multi-resistant maize inbred line‘Xun696’ was bred by selfing after 7 generations using the superior line aggregation and high and large strict selection methods. ‘Xun696’ had multi-disease resistance to corn rough dwarf，stem rot, southern corn rust，corn northern leaf blight and corn southern leaf blight. It had fruiting spikes cylindrical, uniformity of size and kernel row number 18-20. It also had compact plant tape，strong combining ability, high seed production yield and wide range of adaptability. Two corn hybrids including ‘Yongyou1573’ and ‘Yongyou1583’ from ‘Xun696’ inbred line combination were approved by the National or Provincial Crops Variety Approval Committee. These two new varieties have been popularized and applied on a large scale in Huanghuaihai summer maize region and middle and late maturity zone of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, and have achieved better social and economic benefits.

Select

Effects of Two Seed Coating on Corn Growth and Antioxidant Defense System of ‘Heinuo 100’

WU Yitong, LV Chensheng, LIU Yadong, LI Kaiye

Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin 2024, 40 (3): 46-53. DOI: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2023-0142

Abstract + (80) HTML (3) PDF (1318KB) (11)

Through field experiment, the research elucidates the effects of two commonly used systemic pesticides (thiamethoxam and difenoconazole) in the corn seed treatment, and their effects on cluster fresh weight in corn milk-ripe stage, fresh weight in all growth stages and the antioxidant defense system of ‘Heinuo 100’. The results showed that at the recommended application dosage of 6 mL/kg seed, the effect of thiamethoxam and thiamethoxan-difenoconazole mixture on the fresh weight of each part of maize plant was mainly at seedling stage and jointing stage. Compared with the control treatment, thiamethoxam and thiamethoxam-difenoconazole mixture treatment significantly reduced the fresh weight of each part at seedling stage and jointing stage, and there was no significant difference among the three treatments at milk maturity stage. The application of systemic pesticides as the seed treatment agents could increase the fresh weight of ear, but the effect was not significantly different. Both thiamethoxam and thiamethoxan-difenoconazole treatment promoted chlorophyll synthesis, and the mixed application of thiamethoxam and difenoconazole had higher chlorophyll content than that of thiamethoxam alone. Compared with the control treatment, thiamethoxam and thiamethoxam-difenoconazole mixture treatment could increase the activities of SOD, CAT and POD and decrease the GSH and MDA content in maize leaves. It showed that anti-oxidative mechanism of the maize leaf could response and regulate the metabolic process of the maize, thus making the corn plant grow normally at the dosages of systemic pesticides employed in this study.

Select

Effects of Sowing Dates and Foliar-applied Fertilizers on Grain Yield and Mineral Concentrations of Different Maize Varieties

YAN Wei, LI Xiaojing, JIANG Yuwei, HUANG Meng, LIU Bo, ZHANG Chunyan, CUI Zhenling, XUE Yanfang

Journal of Agriculture 2024, 14 (1): 1-9. DOI: 10.11923/j.issn.2095-4050.cjas2023-0017

Abstract + (102) HTML (6) PDF (1613KB) (70)

To investigate the effects of sowing date and foliar-applied fertilizers on grain yield and mineral concentrations of the two maize varieties, field experiment was conducted in Linyi City, Shandong Province from May to October in 2019. A three-factor split plot experimental design was adopted, the main plots consisted of five maize sowing dates (May 31, June 6, June 13, June 21 and June 28, marked as B₁-B₅), and the sub-plots consisted of two maize varieties including ‘Denghai 605’ and ‘Zhengdan 309’. The slit-split plots consisted of five foliar-applied fertilizers, including deionized water (Water), calcium chloride (Ca), zinc sulfate (Zn), glutamine (N) and mixed solution of glutamine and zinc sulfate (N+Zn). Samples were collected at maturity. The results showed that both ‘Denghai605’ and ‘Zhengdan309’ had the highest grain yield at B₃ date (June 13), and the average maximum yield was 11.9 and 10.9 t/hm², respectively, mainly due to the higher number of grains per ear at this sowing date. The result indicated that B₃ was the best sowing stage in this region, and both early and late sowing dates decreased the grain yield of the two maize varieties. For ‘Denghai605’, foliar spraying with N solution could slightly increase grain yield under early sowing conditions (e.g. B₁ and B₂), while foliar spraying with Ca, Zn, N and N+Zn solutions could increase grain yield under late sowing conditions (e.g. B₄ and B₅). Among them, foliar spraying of N + Zn solution had the best yield increase effect, and the grain yield under B₄ and B₅ sowing dates increased by 45.5 % and 16.0 %, respectively, compared with the control. For ‘Zhengdan309’, foliar spraying of N solution or Zn solution could improve the grain yield at B₄ and foliar spraying of Ca solution could also improve the grain yield at B₅. In addition, foliar applications of Zn solution alone or the mixture of N+Zn solution could significantly increase grain Zn concentration of the two maize varieties sown at B₂ and B₃ dates. Furthermore, foliar application of Zn solution could also significantly increase the concentrations of Fe, Mn, Cu, N and Mg in grain of ‘Zhengdan309’ sown at B₂ and B₃. The results provided theoretical basis for realizing high yield and quality cultivation of maize and improving fertilizer utilization efficiency.

Select

Dynamic Study on Filaments and Seed Setting Rate of Maize Inbred Lines

YANG Meili, WANG Bangtai, LU Hongwei, SU Yujie, ZHAO Shuzheng, CHENG Jianmei, WANG Jing, GUO Hua, WANG Zhihong, QIN Guiwen

Journal of Agriculture 2024, 14 (1): 10-14. DOI: 10.11923/j.issn.2095-4050.cjas2023-0050

Abstract + (58) HTML (2) PDF (1247KB) (28)

The aim was to investigate the dynamic changes in filament vitality and seed setting of different maize inbred lines. This study used maize inbred lines ‘Xun 696’, ‘Xun 573’, ‘Xun 503’, ‘Zheng 58’ and ‘Chang 7-2’ as experimental materials to measure relevant indicators such as daily filament length and quantity, filament setting rates and ear traits at different days. The results showed that the daily filament length and filament setting rate of different inbred lines increased first and then decreased; the peak of the daily spinning length of the flower silk was on the 2^nd to 3^rd day of spinning; the peak setting rate was on the 3^rd to 5^th day of silk spinning. The daily filament amount showed a ‘fast-slow’ growth pattern, with a rapid growth from the 1^st to the 3^rd days. The total amount of ‘Xun 696’ filament was the smallest, and the total amount of ‘Chang 7-2’ filament was the largest. On the 8^th day after pollination, the fertilization rate and total fruiting rate of small flowers were higher than that on the 5^th day, with ‘Zheng 58’ having the highest fertilization rate and ‘Xun 696’ having the highest total fruiting rate. The fruiting rate of silk at different days of age in ‘Xun 696’, ‘Xun 573’, and ‘Xun 503’ was significantly or extreme significantly positively correlated with various traits of their panicles, daily silk production, and silk production length. The research results provide a theoretical basis for clarifying the active time of the filaments of inbred lines, mastering the optimal pollination period, improving the seed setting and seed production yield of inbred lines.

Special issue

For authors

For reviewers

Reader center

Contact us