Impact of different sowing dates on growth and yield of sweet corn (Zea mays L. Saccharata) cultivars

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted to study the “Impact of different sowing dates on growth and yield of sweet corn (Zea mays L. Saccharata) cultivars” at the farm of the National Agriculture Research Project, Chh. Sambhajinagar during the kharif season of 2023-24. The site had a level topography with medium black, deep clayey soil, high moisture retention, and adequate drainage. The region received an average monsoon rainfall of 598.93 mm, mostly between June and September, creating favourable conditions for crop growth. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with three replications, comprising four dates of sowing (1st June, 15th June, 1st July, 15th July) in main plots and three cultivars (Phule Madhu, Sugar 75, Mithas) in subplots, with a gross plot size of 4.5 m × 4 m. Results revealed that early sowing on 1st June recorded the highest fresh cob yield (20.78 t ha-1) and superior growth attributes. Among cultivars, Phule Madhu produced slightly higher fresh cob yield (17.06 t ha-1). Thus, sowing on 1st June with Phule Madhu emerged as the best option for higher productivity and profitability under the agro-climatic conditions of Chh. Sambhajinagar.