Assessment of Different Maize (Zea mays L.) Hybrids under Moghan Climate

In order to investigate the response of grain yield, plant height and phenological traits of maize hybrids (Zea mays L.) to planting date, a factorial experiment was carried out based on complete randomized block design with four replications during two growing seasons (2013-2014) at Moghan Research Station. Treatments consisted of two planting dates (May 1 and June 25) and five maize hybrids (namely SC704 and SC720 from a late maturing group, TWC600 and SC647 from mid maturing group and SC301 from early maturing group). The results of statistical analysis showed a significant difference between years, planting dates and hybrids. The highest grain yield and plant height were related to SC704 and SC720. The results showed that the planting date on May 1 increased plant production compared to June 25. The highest average of days to physiological maturity related to planting date was May 1. SC704 and SC301 had the highest and lowest average of days to flowering and days to pollination in two different planting dates during two growing seasons (2013-2014) in Moghan region, respectively. Multiple regression analysis by stepwise method showed that in regards to days to pollination and days to physiological maturity with grain yield of maize hybrids there was a significant positive association (P<0.01) in two different planting dates (May 1 and June 25) during two growing seasons (2013-2014) in Moghan region. In conclusion, The phenological traits with grain yield can be used to select the best maize hybrids for different planting dates.