Water Use and Grain Yield in Maize Hybrids Under Limited Irrigation.

Maize is a major irrigated crop and irrigation is a large input for maize production in the Texas High Plains. However, anticipated water shortages will challenge the sustainability of maize production in the region. Adoption of proper maize hybrids, particularly the new drought tolerant hybrids, is a critical strategy for maize production under water-limited conditions. The objective of this study was to investigate water use and yield performance in different maize hybrids at three irrigation levels. Field study was conducted at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research Station near Etter, TX in four growing seasons (2011-2014). The experimental design was a split-plot two-factor randomized complete block design with four replications. Irrigation treatment was the main plot factor and hybrid the subplot factor. Irrigation treatments consisted of 100%, 75% and 50% evapotranspiration (ET) requirement and irrigation was carried out using a center pivot irrigation system. The results showed that water use and grain yield were affected by irrigation, hybrid and planting density. With different main effects and interactions, we were able to identify the proper hybrids and planting densities for maize under limited irrigation.