SEED PRODUCTION OF MAIZE HYBRIDS IN SOILS WITH DIFFERENT MOISTURE WITHHOLDING CAPACITY IN THE PUEBLA VALLEY

Abstract

In response to the scarce supply of certified seed for dryland zones like Puebla Valley, and to the necessity of developing seed technologies for this valley, a study was conducted during 1994. The main objectives of the study were: a) to evaluate the production potential of residual moisture soils, and b) to define the most adequate sowing season for seed production of two maize hybrids. Two experiments were planted: one at Tlaltenango, Pue, in a soil with high water table (Environment 1), and another one at Capultitlán, Pue. in a soil with residual moisture (Environment 2). In each experiment, three planting dates to produce the hybrids HCP-2 and HCP-3 were evaluated. The measured variables were: plant height, days to male flowering in the males, days to female flowering in the female, grain yield, seed yield and yield of classified seed. There were statistical differences between locations for soil moisture withholding capacity. Such differences influenced both the agronomic performance and the yield recorded. Earlier dates resulted in a better agronomic performance and yield of the progenitors. The best seed yields and the best agronomic performance were achieved by planting during the first fifteen days of April in the Environment 1.