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The sowing date depends largely on the soil conditions and on the possibility of frosty conditions within the area to be planted, as maize is very vulnerable to frost damage both in spring and autumn. May frosts usually don’t kill the seedlings as they are still below the soil surface. The crop recovers, although leaf damage and a check on growth can occur. In any case, it is vital that the maize is planted as early as possible. The optimum sowing date is between the 10th April and the 30th April. This ensures that frost damage is avoided.
Sowing Date |
Dry Matter Yield |
Dry Matter (%) |
Cob Dry Matter (%) |
10th April |
94 |
24.7 |
26.2 |
20th April |
107 |
24.9 |
24.8 |
10th May |
100 |
23.8 |
20.9 |
20th May |
98 |
22.4 |
15.4 |
The crop is precision sowed to a depth of 4 – 6cm. The rows should be 70cm apart. 100,000 – 105,000 seeds should be planted per hectare in order to ensure that 95,000 – 100,000 plants will be established. If the seed rate is increased, the yield will also be higher, however, a reduction in starch is experienced and an increased risk of lodging is created.
Maize can have any place in rotation.
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