Effect of planting time on yield and related-traits of 24 three-way cross maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids

Selection of hybrids for yield is a complex procedure as it is a function of several related traits as well as their interaction with the environment. Stability in performance serves as a guiding tool for selecting high yielding maize hybrids and thus help to mitigate food insecurity in sub-Saharan Africa. This research was carried out to determine the performance and stability of 24 maize hybrids on the field of Teaching and Research farm of Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria during wet and dry season of 2018 along with the wet season of 2019. The trial was laid out in randomized complete block design in three replications. Data were collected on eight quantitative traits. Stability analysis according to grouping techniques, AMMI model, and GGE bi-plot were used. Genotype by environmental effect was significant (p < 0.01) for all measured traits except plant height, and also ear height. According to grouping techniques; ten hybrids were in group I (high grain-yield with low CV); three hybrids in group II (high yield with large CV); four hybrids in group III (low grain-yield with low CV); four hybrids in group IV (low grain-yield with large CV). AMMI biplot revealed that hybrids LW1701-7, LW1701-13, and LW1701-15 were high yielding, stable and adapted to raining season of 2019. However, hybrids LW1701-2, and LW1701-8 were found best in over all analysis. Biplot analysis showed that hybrids LW1701-2 and LW1701-8 are the ideal genotypes. Based on the three techniques, hybrid LWI701-2 is the most desirable genotype. Therefore, breeding programme to improve maize yield, stability, and, adaptability in South-West Nigeria should adopt hybrid LWI701-2. © 2022, The Author(s) under exclusive licence to Society for Plant Research.