Step 1: Field Selection
Three factors influence field selection: altitude, aspect, and soil type. Maize/corn thrives in sub-tropical climates, so altitude affects its ability to mature. Fields above 140m require favorable conditions like south-facing slopes and well-draining soil. South-facing sites with mild exposure are ideal. Maize needs a dry spring soil, but not one that dries too much by late spring. Medium loams, which are easy to work and warm up early, are preferred. Heavy clay soils hinder seedbed creation, making them less ideal.
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Step 2: Seed-bed Preparation
A deep, loose seedbed is vital for maize. This plant requires unrestricted root growth in its early stages. Compaction limits growth and yield. Farms with heavy soils may need to plough in winter, but waterlogged fields can take longer to dry. It’s crucial to inspect the soil below the surface. Using equipment like crumblers that cultivate soil without compacting it ensures proper seedbed preparation.
Step 3: Drilling and Sowing
Drill maize seeds at a uniform depth into moist soil. Soil temperature should be at least 8°C for four to five consecutive days for proper growth. Aim to complete drilling by late April. Sowing after May may reduce yields by 1% per day. To prevent rook damage, drill seeds at least 7-8cm deep. Check the depth and spacing by uncovering a meter of seed behind the drill. Deeper sowing may delay germination due to colder soil.
Step 4: Choosing a Variety
Select maize/corn varieties based on previous experience and farm conditions. Yield is a top priority for dairy farmers. Aim for a target of 49.9t/ha (20t/acre) of fresh weight. Choose varieties that can mature by the end of October.
Step 5: Weed Control
Apply a pre-emergent herbicide after drilling to control weeds. This reduces the workload of post-emergence herbicides. Effective weed control is crucial, as maize struggles to compete with weeds during early growth.
Step 6: Crop Nutrition
Maize requires proper nutrition, especially nitrogen. The crop needs 180kg/ha of potash, 40kg/ha of phosphate, and 150kg/ha of nitrogen. Nutrient needs depend on soil conditions and previous applications of organic matter like FYM or slurry. Apply 75% of nitrogen in the seedbed and the rest during the 1-3 leaf stage to support healthy growth.
Step 7: Pests and Diseases
Maize is relatively pest-free, but certain issues may arise, especially when following grass. Wire worms, leather jackets, and frit-fly can cause problems. Insecticide treatments are banned after March 31st, so growers should be mindful of pest management. Insects like the European corn-borer and diseases such as eye-spot can also affect crops. Fungicide treatments can help prevent seed rotting.
Source:https://www.fwi.co.uk/livestock/step-step-guide-planting-maize
