Forage yield responses of some maize genotypes at high plant densities in twin row planting pattern

Özet

Aims: This research was carried out in order to guide farmers and researchers by determining the effect of high plant densities on forage yield of some silage maize genotypes in twin row planting pattern in Eastern Mediterranean ecological conditions. Methods and Results: In this study, we evaluated the responses of three silage maize genotypes (DKC 6589, Cadiz and Bolson) to high plant densities (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 plant m-2 ) in twin row planting pattern (50:20 cm). Research results showed that forage and hay yields tended to increase with increasing plant densities up to 14 plants m-2 , but decreased in 15 plants m-2 density. The maximum yields were obtained at 14 plants m-2 in twin row planting pattern. It was determined that the yields of DKC 6589 and Cadiz genotypes were higher than Bolson. It was concluded that with the combination of appropriate genotype and plant density, silage yield can be obtained over 7 tons per hectare. Conclusions: Due to the improvement of new maize genotypes continually, it is important to determine the responses of new varieties to agronomic practices. It is important to determine suitable plant densities in twin row planting pattern, which is an alternative practices in maize farming. The results of this study indicated that silage maize can be planted in high densities in twin row planting pattern according to the traditional 70 cm single row planting method and the 14 plants m-2 density was the most suitable planting density in twin row planting pattern. Significance and Impact of the Study: The study revealed the effect of high plant densities in twin row planting, which is an alternative approach in silage maize production, and has revealed practical data for the Mediterranean climate zone. Also, research results reveal important source data for farmers and researchers about silage maize farming whose production area is constantly increasing.