The effect of seed size and seeding depth on the components of maize yield structure

The paper describes characteristics of grain maize hybrids by the components of the yield structure depending on the seed size and seeding depth. The dynamics of changes in the examined parameters is determined while changing 1000-kernel weight and increasing seeding depth from 4 to 11 cm. The effect of environmental conditions on the kernel row number and kernel number per row has been determined. Dependence of the kernel row number and kernel number per row on the seeding depth and seed size is examined. The growth of genetic control of the kernel row number depending on the particular hybrid is outlined in comparison with the studied elements of the technology. Application of seeds having large linear size and an optimum seeding depth of 4-7 cm allows us to increase kernel number per row. Dependence of the change in the kernel row number on the seeding depth and seed size, which indicates a high genetic nature of determination of this trait, was established. Kernel number per row increased when decreasing the seeding depth and its greatest value was achieved under the depth of 4 cm. Application of the medium and large seeds increased the value of kernel number per row by 0.2-2.1 kernels compared to small seeds. It is established that sowing of medium and large seeds at the depth of 4-7 cm ensures optimal value of the investigated components of the yield structure of maize hybrids.