EFFECT OF FOLIAR FERTILIZATION ON YIELD AND SEED QUALITY OF CORN SINGLE CROSSES

Abstract

In order to evaluate the effect of foliar fertilization on the flowering date of the progenitors, and on yield and seed quality of corn single crosses (Zea Mays L.), during the Spring-Summer season of 1999, a detasseling lot was established at the Colegio of Postgraduados Experimental Station, Montecillo, México. Two female lines (CL-1 and CL-21) and one male CL-4 were planted to produce seed of two single cross hybrids, H-14 and H-214. The experiment was established in a randomized complete block design with foliar fetilizers applied at two growth stages; the foliar fertilizers treatments were: macronutrients and micronutrients, macronutrients, micronutrients and bee honey. Traits evaluated were average flowering date, yield, and physical and physiological seed quality; this last one by the standard germination test and the emergency rate in two sowing depths in a microtunnel. Foliar fertilizers had a significant effect on germination and viability percentages, aerial biomass dry weight, root dry weight and seedling dry weight; however, the average flowering date progenitors, seed yield and physical quality, were unaffected. Fertilizing with macronutrients and micronutrients and with micronutrients increased the germination percentage by 5 and 4 %, respectively. These treatments also tended to increase seed vigor, measured as present of establishment and as aerial biomass dry weight. The genetic factor was important for seed yield, physical quality, germination and vigor.