Maize yield as affected by irrigation and evapotranspiration control treatments

Abstract

SUMMARYMaize yield was increased by the application of organic mulch (6 t/ha). Mulched plots treated with any of the antitranspirants (kaolin or alachlor) and receiving two or four irrigations yielded as much as untreated plots receiving four or six irrigations. Cob length, number of grains and grain weight of maize were increased by mulching and by the transpiration suppressants. Irrigation water-use efficiency was improved by evapotranspiration control treatments.