Studies on Maize ( Zea mays ) at Bunda, Malawi. I. Yield in Relation to Rainfall

SUMMARY Yields of maize were determined in six years, on two soils, at up to four nitrogen levels following early and late planting. Without fertilizer nitrogen, high rainfall at the beginning of the growing season reduced yield on one soil but not on the other, while high rainfall at late silking and high total rainfall in the growing season reduced yields on both soils. As the level of fertilizer nitrogen increased, the negative effects of rainfall on yield tended to disappear. A three week delay in planting sometimes increased and sometimes decreased yield. The probable reasons for the observed effects of rainfall on yield are discussed.