Effect of planting pattern, plant density and nitrogen levels on grain yield and yield components of maize cv. SC704

Modifiying canopy structure to provide conditions in which the crop canopy could absorb better light has been known as an important strategy to increase crop yield. In this field study, the effects of planting pattern, plant density and nitrogen levels on grain yield, yield components and some agronomic haracteristics of maize cv. SC704 were evaluated in 2008 cropping season. The field experiment was carried out at the experimentalfarm of faculty of agriculture Shiraz University, in split-split-plot arrangements using RCBD with three replications. Planting patterns (conventional single row= SR, parallel double row = PDR, and zigzag double row = ZDR) were randomized in sub-sub-plots, plant densities, (80000, 90000, 100000 and 112500 plants.ha-1) were randomized in sub- plots and nitrogen levels (90 and 180 kg.ha-1) were assigned to main plts. Interaction effect of planting patterns and density on grain yield, grains per ear and 1000 grain weight was significant. The highets grain yield (15550 kg.ha-1) was obtained from 100000 plants.ha-1 and ZDR planting pattern. Interaction effect of nitrogen levels × density, and nitrogen levels × planting patterns on grain yield, harvest index, grains per ear and1000 grain weight were also significant. Therefore, the highest biological yield was obtained from application of 180 kg N.ha-1 at 100000 plants.ha-1 (27045 kg.ha-1). However, the highest harvest index was obtained from application of 180 kgN.ha-1 and ZDR planting pattern (61.38%). It seems that application of 180 kgN.ha-1 andZDR planting pattern could improve the grain yield of maize cv. SC704.