Laboratory Equipment,Laboratory Autoclave Class,Moisture Analyzer,Laboratory Analytical Instruments CHANGZHOU RICHGENIUS MEDLAB CO.,LTD , https://www.rich-gen.com
Maize colonization
In recent years, as corn production has steadily increased, boosting planting density and the number of harvested ears has become a key strategy for achieving high yields. However, with higher planting densities, the problem of lodging—where plants fall over due to wind or rain—has become more severe. For example, in Hebei Province in 2008, over 1.5 million mu of corn were affected by lodging, which had a negative impact on both yield and stability. The challenge now is how to improve plant resistance to lodging under high-density conditions, especially when exposed to strong winds and heavy rains.
One approach is selecting varieties that are more resistant to lodging. A variety’s susceptibility to lodging is closely related to its physical characteristics. Generally, taller plants with higher ear positions are more prone to falling over. This is because they have an unstable center of gravity, and if the stalks are thin or the roots are weak, the risk increases. While no variety is completely immune to lodging, some are more resilient than others, depending on their genetic traits.
Another important factor is the timing of sowing. The growth stage around tasseling is critical, as the plant's height is already set, and the stem is still relatively weak. During this period, strong winds or heavy rains can cause significant damage. For spring maize, adjusting the sowing date can help avoid these weather conditions. For summer maize, late planting often leads to taller, weaker stalks, making them more vulnerable. Therefore, it's recommended to sow summer maize early after wheat harvest to reduce risks.
Increasing the row spacing can also help prevent lodging. While different planting patterns like wide-row or narrow-row systems can all contribute to high yields, increasing row spacing under high-density conditions improves air circulation and light penetration. This promotes stronger base stem development and reduces the likelihood of wind damage. A row spacing of about 70 cm is typically ideal, not less than 60 cm.
Applying potassium fertilizer is another effective measure. With excessive nitrogen use in modern farming, balancing with potassium is essential for strengthening stalks and preventing lodging. Potassium should be applied early, either as a seed fertilizer at planting or as a seedling fertilizer. The amount varies depending on soil conditions, but 10–20 kg per acre of potassium sulfate or chloride is commonly recommended.
Seedling practices, such as controlled drought or root pruning, can also help manage plant growth and promote stronger root systems, reducing lodging risk. These practices are most effective during the seedling stage, before the jointing phase begins. They are particularly useful for spring maize, while summer maize usually doesn’t allow for such interventions due to the upcoming hot and rainy season.
Nitrogen topdressing must be carefully managed. Applying too much nitrogen during the jointing stage can accelerate stem elongation, increasing the risk of lodging. It’s better to delay nitrogen application until the "big bell mouth" stage, which helps develop the ear without compromising plant stability.
Soil cultivation, such as hilling up the soil around the base of the plant, can enhance root anchorage and improve the plant’s ability to resist being pulled out of the ground. This practice should be done before the jointing stage, with a depth of 5–8 cm and a mound height of 8–10 cm.
Finally, chemical regulators like Jindele or Jade Gold can be used to control plant height and reduce lodging. However, these should be used strictly according to instructions, as improper use can lead to phytotoxicity. Chemical control is a passive method, so precision is crucial for effectiveness and safety.