Improved Crop Management on Open-Pollinated Maize (OPV) in The High Upland of Central Java Indonesia

Abstract

In the highlands of Central Java, maize remains a staple food, but low yields are common due to limited use of local varieties and cultivation techniques. To address this, a study was conducted in Bojong District, Central Java, focusing on intensified maize cultivation through improved varieties, spacing, and fertilization. On-farm experiments were carried out, comparing different treatments with recommended practices. Sukmaraga maize showed the highest yields when following suggested spacing and fertilization, outperforming local yellow and white varieties significantly. The study revealed that intensification using high-yielding varieties and proper techniques could increase maize yields by 108-172% for different varieties. For local yellow and white maize, the yield increase was about 134% and 113%, respectively. Overall, adopting high-yielding varieties and improved techniques resulted in a remarkable average yield increase of 135% compared to traditional farmer practices. This research highlights the potential to enhance maize productivity in the Central Java highlands and improve food security in the region.