PERFORMANCE AND ADAPTATION OF H-316 AND H-317, NEW MAIZE THREE WAY HYBRIDS FOR EL BAJIO REGION

Abstract

At El Bajio region of México, maize is involved in different crop rotation systems along the year. Medium season hybrids with high yield potential are required for these systems to optimize planting dates in crops rotation. In this region maize grain yield can be limited by irregular rain distribution and by frosts. To contribute in the solution of these problems, two new medium season three way hy hybrids H-316 y H-317 were formed as an option to increase maize productivity in the region. Information on the formation process, pedigree, seed production and performance of the new hybrids during 1996, 1997 and 1998 under different environments, is presented in this paper. Results from the analysis of eight locations conducted in 1996, indicated that the new hybrids are “Stable Varieties”. The commercial check HV-313 was over-yielded by H-316 in 12 % under irrigation, and by H-317 in 28 % under dryland conditions. In 11 farmer validation plots conducted during 1998, the hybrids H-316 y H-317 presented 19 and 11 % more grain yield than HV-313, in the average. The information obtained during a three year evaluation through experimental trials, and farmer validation plots at several locations in the State of Guanajuato, México, supported the release of the new hybrids, which were superior to the commercial check HV-313 in grain yield and agronomic characteristics.