Investigation of the optimum planting dates for maize varieties using a hybrid approach: A case of Hwedza, Zimbabwe.

ABSTRACT: Water scarcity and unreliable weather conditions frequently cause smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe to plant maize (Zea mays L.) varieties outside the optimum planting timeframe. This challenge exacts the necessity to develop sowing management options for decision support. The study's objective was to use a hybrid approach to determine the best planting windows and maize varieties. The combination will guide farmers on planting dates, dry spell probability during critical stages of the crop growth cycle and rainfall cessation. To capture farmer's perception on agroclimatic information, a systematic random sampling of 438 smallholders was carried out. An analysis of climatic data during 1949-2012 was conducted using INSTAT to identify the best planting criterion. The best combination o

SUBMITTER: Mugiyo H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7873380 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature