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Analysis of the effect of agrotechnical parameters and crop year on maize (Zea mays L.) yield using polyfactorial yield trial data
77-100Views:159Field crop production is of paramount importance, the fundamental basis of food production and the source of our livelihood. Maize is one of the world's most important crops, essential for both food and energy security. The research was carried out in Hungary, at the University of Debrecen's Látókép Experimental Site, on calcareous chernozem soil in a complex tillage experiment, set up in 1989 by Prof. Dr. János Nagy. The analysis of the examined years (2015–2023) was carried out in a similar way as in the research of Gombos and Nagy (2019, 2022, 2023, 2024), i.e. we examined the deviation of the total precipitation and mean annual temperature of the given year from the 30-year (1981–2010) site average. RStudio and repeated measures model and LSD post hoc test are used to analyse the maize yield data.
Of the nine years studied, 2015 was the year with the third lowest significant maize yield (7.94 t/ha). The subsequent year 2016 yielded the second highest significant maize yield of the studied period (11.39 t/ha), The 2017 yield (8.64 t/ha) was significantly lower than the preceding year, while 2018 was more favourable for maize (9.18 t/ha). The 2019 harvest produced the statistically third highest maize yield (9.42 t/ha) in the studied period. The yield of 2020 (9.24 t/ha) was not significantly different from that of 2018, but was statistically different from all other years. The yield of maize in the unfavourable year 2021 (7.05 t/ha) was statistically the second lowest in the studied period. Of the nine studied years, the most unfavourable year for maize was the record drought year of 2022, when a yield of 2.52 t/ha was observed. The following year, 2023, recorded the highest maize yield of the studied period, 11.97 t/ha. The greatest impact on maize yield was exerted by the crop year with 73.5%, followed by fertilisation with 24.7%. The effect of tillage was 1%, because the different base crops performed differently depending on the crop year, thus neutralising the effect. -
Comparative assessment of the yield parameters of KWS maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids
7-20Views:157Breeding maize hybrids is a slow and expensive process. Maize hybrids perform differently under different environmental conditions and agricultural management practices, making hybrid selection one of the most important management decisions for maize growers. Choosing the right maize hybrid with high yield potential for the location can improve profitability, grain yield and quality at harvest.
The experiment was carried out at the University of Debrecen Institutes for Agricultural Research and Educational Farm (AKIT), Debrecen Agricultural and Landscape Research Institute (DTTI), Látókép Crop Production Experimental Station to evaluate the yield parameters of three maize genotypes with different maturity (FAO 350, FAO 400 and FAO 460). Our studies evaluated the yield, quantitative and qualitative characteristics of maize hybrids and the yield determinants of yield.
In terms of yield, in the "potential" field experiments, the excellent FAO 400 maturity maize hybrid KWS FORTURIO achieved a peak yield with a record value of 20.05 t/ha, which exceeded the yield of the other genotypes tested by 12.29–14.83%, a significant difference.
Significant differences in starch content were measured among the tested hybrids, with the highest result obtained by the FAO 350 maturity KWS OLTENIO hybrid with 63.78%.
Based on our analyses, we found that some quantitative and qualitative yield traits are genotype specific, which results support the importance of selecting the most suitable maturity genotype for the production objective. -
Examination of the effects of genotype, previous crop, and fertilisation in a winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) crop stand under irrigated and non-irrigated conditions
91-111Views:72In a field experiment, the yield and protein content of winter wheat were examined in two crop rotation systems (bi- and tri-culture), two water supply systems (non-irrigated/irrigated), five nutrient supply levels, and three genotypes. The aim of this experiment was to examine the individual factors and evaluate the various interactions. The results of the experiment showed that there was no significant difference between water supply and genotypes in terms of either yield or protein content. Under the influence of water supply, an average yield increase of 595 kg/ha can be achieved in the case of biculture, while in the case of triculture, an average yield increase of 512 kg/ha can be achieved. In terms of protein content, a decrease can be observed under the influence of irrigation: 0.2% in the case of biculture and 0.28% in the case of triculture. In all four studied treatment combinations, the Hycardi hybrid wheat achieved the highest yield (non-irrigated biculture: 8173 kg/ha; irrigated biculture: 9088 kg/ha; non-irrigated triculture: 10 256 kg/ha; irrigated triculture: 10 763 kg/ha), but this did not differ significantly from the yield results of the other two genotypes. In contrast, significant differences were found between the crop rotation systems. In the triculture crop rotation system, the yield (2044 kg/ha under non-irrigated conditions and 1961 kg/ha under irrigated conditions) and protein content (2% under non-irrigated conditions and and 1.02% under irrigated conditions) than in the two-crop rotation system. There were significant differences between nutrient supply levels. Increasing fertiliser doses also increased yield and, typically, protein content. -
Effect of basal and top-dressing fertilisation and irrigation on leaf area index and yield in maize stands
101-118Views:84The effects of basal and top-dressing fertilisation and irrigation on leaf area index (LAI) and yield in maize in an extreme dry year (2022) were investigated. The studies were carried out in Hungary, at the University of Debrecen Látókép Experiment Site on calcareous chernozem soil. In the field experiments, nitrogen (N) was applied as a basal and top-dressing fertiliser in split rates in a non-fertilised control (A0). The spring application rates of 60 and 120 kg N/ha (A60, A120), applied as spring basal fertiliser, were followed by two top dressings at V6 and V12 phenophases (V690, V6150 and V12120, V12180), at rates of +30 and +30 kg N/ha, respectively. The application rate was 115 mm of irrigation water. Based on the results of the test year, it can be concluded that in the different phenological stages (V8, V10, V12, Vn, VT, R1 R3, R6), averaged over the hybrids and treatments, LAI values increased in the vegetative development stage. The highest value was observed in the Vn phenological phase (irrigated 3.074±0.595; non-irrigated: 2.495±0.324) (p<0.05). The lowest LAI values were measured in the A0 treatment (irrigated: 1.663±0.633; non-irrigated: 1.324±0.455), while the highest values were measured in both irrigated (2.620±0.928 m2/m2; p<0.05) and non-irrigated (1.702±0.622; p<0.05) conditions in the A120 treatment. There was no significant increase in LAI as a result of top-dressing. The lowest fertiliser rate (A60) increased yield by 92.3% under irrigated conditions and by 64.7% under non-irrigated conditions compared to the A0 treatment. The 120 kg N/ha basal treatment resulted in a further yield increase compared to the 60 kg N/ha basal treatment (irrigated: +19.8%; non-irrigated: +24.4%). The highest significant yield was obtained with the A120 treatment (irrigated: 11.863±1.104 t/ha; non-irrigated: 8.649±0.971 t/ha; p<0.05). A different degree of correlation between LAI and yield was found as the phenological stages progressed. Under irrigated conditions, LAI values measured at the VT (r=0.753***) phenophase had the greatest effect on yield. Under non-irrigated conditions, the Vn (r=0.602***) phenological stage showed the strongest correlation between the two factors. The research carried out contributes to increase the target yield, to achieve sustainable production and to make appropriate decisions in extreme dry years. -
Dry matter incorporation and water loss dynamics of different FAO maize hybrids
79-102Views:164Based on the results of our field experiments, we evaluated the most important values and parameters of four different FAO maize hybrids. For the evaluation of the performance and quality of the hybrids, we used the useful heat sum (HU) values for the developmental stages as a novel approach.
For each of the four different FAO hybrids, we investigated in a novel and unique way the useful heat sum requirement of maize hybrids in the most important phenophases preceding dry matter incorporation and water loss dynamics. We also recorded the number of days from emergence at each phenophase, allowing comparison with literature data. Dry matter incorporation was assessed at R2, R4 (wax maturity) and physiological maturity, and at harvest. The dry matter incorporation dynamics study was started on 31/07/2023 for the four different FAO hybrids to meet the requirement of a reliable comparison.
The reliable sampling data allowed the analysis of the water release dynamics in the light of thermal energy use. Three water discharge intervals were evaluated between the four sampling dates.
The yields of four maize hybrids with different FAO numbers were significantly different. The highest yields were obtained by the hybrid with excellent ability FAO 480 (19.53 t/ha).
In all cases, the grain moisture content at harvest of the maize hybrids tested was closely related to the length of the growing season. The grain moisture content of the hybrids differed significantly at harvest.
Starch content was closely related to yield, with the FAO 480 hybrid having the highest yield and starch content, while the FAO 350 hybrid had the lowest yield and starch content. Specific protein content showed a strong inverse correlation with yield. The FAO 350 hybrid had the lowest yield (13.62 t/ha) and the highest protein content (7.69%), while the FAO 480 hybrid had the highest yield (19.53 t/ha) and the lowest protein content (5.78%). In all cases, the oil content of the maize hybrids tested showed a strong correlation with yield. The oil contents of the hybrids were significantly different.
The new research results suggest a strong correlation between oil synthesis and yield per hectare, but further field experiments and laboratory tests are needed to confirm this. -
Impact of different tillage systems on the yield parameters, protein, carbohydrate and oil content of different genotypes of maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids
37-57Views:192The aim of our research is to investigate the effect of different tillage systems on maize parameters (yield, grain moisture content at harvest) and on the nutritional value parameters (starch, protein, oil content). The ploughing primary tillage of maize was compared with the tillage practices (disc tillage, straight knife tillage, strip tillage) that are beneficial for soil structure conservation. The study was carried out in two different crop years with two different rainfall distributions, 2020 and 2021, on mid-heavy meadow chernozem soil in the outskirts of Nádudvar, in a mesoparcel experiment with three hybrids of different maturity (FAO 380, FAO 420, FAO 490).
In 2020, pre-sowing rainfall was low in March and April, only 23% and 39% of the multi-year average, which did not favour spring-sown crops, including maize. In June and July, on the other hand, rainfall was 256% and 217% of the multi-year average. In April, only 52% of the multi-year average fell, while in May it was 144% of the multi-year average. The year as a whole was extremely dry compared to the multi-year average, especially in June and July, when rainfall was only 14% and 69% of the multi-year average, respectively.
The impact of the tillage method on yields was significant in both examined years. In 2020, the yield of ploughing (15.84 t ha-1) was higher than both strip and conservation tillage. In 2021, ploughing was also the highest (5.46 t ha-1), higher than all other tillage methods, but 10.37 t ha-1 lower than in 2020.
In 2020 and 2021, the ranking of hybrids by yield was different. The best yield in 2020 was achieved by the FAO 490 hybrid (16.18 t ha-1), significantly higher than the other two hybrids. In the dry season, the FAO 420 hybrid was able to achieve the highest yield (4.33 t ha-1). Content value analysis of maize grains showed different results in the two crop years. In 2020, the oil content was significantly higher in the reduced tillage of the four tillage methods, with no real difference in the other methods. The analysis of starch content showed no significant difference between ploughing, conservation tillage and strip tillage, and no measurable difference between reduced and strip tillage. The protein content in 2021 showed a difference, with ploughing and conservation tillage demonstrably lower than reduced tillage. Compared to 2020, protein content increased from 6% to 8% in 2021. There was also a significant difference in starch content, with 66% in 2020 and 62% in 2021. -
Evaluation of maize (Zea mays L.) parameters in different phenophases as a function of heat sums in irrigated production
85-103Views:286In Hungary, maize is one of the most widely grown crops, with a stable area of 0.8–1 million hectares. The reason for this is the exceptional yield of the crop, which allows a significant amount of value to be produced per unit area. Domestic production is mainly used for animal feed, particularly in the poultry and pig sectors, and for feeding ruminants. Its use is not only as food or fodder crops, but is also increasingly important for the production of oil, bioethanol and energy. The intrinsic values of maize – protein, starch and oil – are crucial for its use in industry, feed and food. The nutrient supply of maize is essential to ensure plant development. Adequate nutrient supply is essential to ensure sustainable farming and high yields. The nutrient rates applied must be adapted to the needs of the crop so that the hybrids tolerate stress caused by seasonal effects well and yield security is maintained.
Water deficit is one of the most serious abiotic stresses that negatively affect plant growth, development and yield. Extreme weather conditions reduce yields and threaten stable production. The content, quality and industrial use of maize are closely linked to genetic, ecological and agrotechnical factors. By selecting the appropriate hybrid and applying the appropriate cultivation technology, yield indicators can be adapted to different purposes. In the agrotechnical studies for 2024, the main yield determinants were analysed, and weather was evaluated for each agrotechnical element and phenophase. The research is mainly based on meteorological measurements at the Látókép Experimental Station of the University of Debrecen. In the winter period 2023/24, 283 mm of precipitation fell in 6 months, 69 mm above the long-term average. In June, the weather was free of extremes, with evenly distributed temperatures, but above the multi-year average. The above average rainfall (66 mm), combined with soil moisture in the deeper layers of the soil, ensured a good water supply.
The average temperatures in both July and August were close to record highs (24.2 °C). The exceptional warmth in August (mid to late August) was mainly due to the shortening of the ripening phase. The 29 mm of precipitation in July was less than half the multi-year average and the following month of August was also dry (33 mm). The summer total was 128 mm. In early September, the unseasonably warm weather continued, with the first decade showing a positive anomaly of nearly 7 °C. The physiological maturity of the maize and its rapid drainage and drying allowed early harvesting. The year 2024 was marked by a marked dichotomy in terms of maize production.
Our field maize experiments allowed us to record the phenophases of the plants throughout the growing season (Hanway scale). As a new result, our analyses showed that, especially in the generative phase, more accurate data were obtained when taking into account the useful heat sum (HU) calculations. From emergence to silking, 60 days passed using 545 HU of heat sum. From silking to waxy maturation (R4) 32 days and 422 HU were needed. It was found that from silking to physiological maturation, typical of the genotype, 815 HU were required. The yield of maize hybrid H470 under irrigation is excellent (20.76 t/ha). The dry matter incorporation dynamics of the hybrid is outstanding. Dry matter gain was measured weekly. At the physiological maturation phenophase (30 August 2024), using 1360 HU, the dry matter content was 77.1%. The dry matter measurements allowed the evaluation of the water loss dynamics of a maize hybrid with excellent yield potential. Measurements and analyses were performed every seven days. The water loss rate was 5.5% in the first week, 5.8% in the second week, 4.6% in the third week and 6.9% in the fourth week. At physiological maturation, grain moisture showed a favourable value (22.9%). After physiological maturation, the daily water loss was 0.23% during the 21-day period. -
Effect of maize (Zea mays L.) emergence dynamics on yield
97-112Views:166Recently, there has been an increased interest in improving sowing technologies and practices, as sowing is one of the most important, if not the most critical, operations that a farmer carries out during the growing season. The emergence dynamics of sown seed have been suggested by several authors to have an impact on yield potential. This condition was studied in two crop years that differed in environmental conditions. Under these effects, individual yields of the earliest- and later-emerged plants were examined. Various physical parameters were measured, such as ear weight, ear length, ear diameter, as well as individual grain weight, thousand grain weight and number of grains. Correlation was found between these yield parameters and the ripening time. Our results confirmed that there is an influence of the emergence dynamics on the yield potential, as the earliest-emerging plants yield the highest yield. Therefore, our breeding technology should also meet the goal of getting as many plants to germinate in the first emergence period. -
Analysis of individual parameters of maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids in irrigated long-term field experiment
49-83Views:59The sustainable development of crop production is one of today's most important agronomic challenges. Modern technologies such as precision farming, including nutrient management and irrigation strategies, play a key role in optimising yields and ensuring sustainability. In an experiment set up at the DE AKIT DTTI Látókép Crop Production Experiment Site, we investigated the phenometric (leaf area index, development dynamics), physiological (relative chlorophyll content, NDVI value, water release dynamics) and yield parameters (yield, individual ear and kernel weight, individual kernel number, thousand kernel weight, protein, oil, starch and grain moisture content). Based on the evaluation of yield, it was found that the highest yield (20.95 t/ha) was obtained by the mid-ripening FAO 390 hybrid, significantly higher than the yield of the other examined hybrids. Altogether, it was found that there were significant, in many cases statistically significant, differences in the phenometric, physiological and yield parameters studied between maize hybrids of different maturity, allowing for a precise differentiation of the main traits of each hybrid. -
Evaluation of field genetic potential based on the results of maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids with different genotypes
5-21Views:58Based on the results of field trials, we evaluated the phenometric and yield-forming elements of two maize hybrids with different maturity times. These indicators greatly contribute to the recommendation of hybrids to growers in farm practice and provide guidance in the development of hybrid-specific production technology.
Syngenta Kft. and the University of Debrecen have been conducting a joint study since 2018 to determine the field yield potential of new hybrids to be introduced. During the trial we strive to ensure that corn receives optimal conditions and does not starve for a unique day. During the experiment, the development stages of the hybrids were recorded in addition to the growth day degree (GDD). In addition to the continuous monitoring of SPAD and NDVI values, the dry-down dynamics are also precisely determined. 2024 was an extreme year for maize production, with extremely high temperatures characterizing the country in July and August. Based on the latest harvest data, the average domestic yield was 5.7 t/ha (varied between 3.4–7.9 t/ha among counties). The yield depression of the 2024 growing year was primarily due to the persistent, extremely hot weather in the summer. Coupled with less than average precipitation, a significant soil drought developed.
In the above experiment, SY Evident FAO 430-440 (H13 hybrid) achieved a yield of 20.81 t/ha, while SY Stacio FAO 360-380 (H12 hybrid), which was earlier in maturity, achieved a yield of 19.46 t/ha on a mesoplot at the university’s Látókép field experimental site. The results of the tested hybrids were greatly influenced by the early planting date, with which the hybrids avoided the extreme heat during flowering. The different genotypes were greatly influenced by the harmonious nutrient supply and optimal weather conditions in May and June (VE-R1 phase). This was statistically confirmed in the change in chlorophyll content (SPAD values) and NDVI values among the hybrids. Due to the high GDD values and ideal conditions created by irrigation during the growth stages from the period of grain filling to physiological maturity (R2-R6 phase), the hybrid with a higher maturity time (H13) statistically exceeded the hybrid with a very early maturity time (H12) by 6.9%. The irrigation-water use efficiency (IRRWUE) of the tested hybrids was as follows: in the case of SY Evident (H13) it was 41.8 kg/mm, while in the case of SY Stacio (H12) this value was 39.2 kg/mm.
By supporting optimal fertilization, we can increase yields, improve crop safety and strengthen sustainable agricultural practices at the same time. Our goal is to transfer these results to farm practice in the future, complemented by the background support of recent digital tools. -
Comparative evaluation of yield results and generative parameters of maize hybrids (2025)
21-44Views:97There were significant differences in yield and morphology among the maize hybrids included in the experiment based on the 2025 growing season. The H6 hybrid proved to be the best performing genotype, excelling in terms of yield (21.20 t/ha), individual grain weight (258.19 g), number of kernels, and thousand kernel weight (488.72 g), and achieved significantly better results than the other hybrids in several traits. The H3 hybrid also showed high yield potential (19.36 t/ha) and resulted in high grain weight and favorable SPAD values, proving to be the second most productive genotype. The H5, H4, and H2 hybrids can be classified as normal performers, producing stable but more moderate yield levels and grain weight, but there were significant differences in yield among these hybrids. SPAD values and NDVI values showed clear differences between the hybrids. The H4, H3, and H5 hybrids achieved outstanding SPAD values during the vegetative stage, indicating rapid initial development, while the H6 and H2 hybrids showed balanced SPAD dynamics throughout the entire growing season. Based on NDVI values, the H2 and H5 hybrids proved to be the most stable in the generative stage, indicating their good stress tolerance. Overall, the study showed that yield is influenced by grain weight, grain number, and plant condition indicators, and that the H6 and H3 hybrids represent outstanding agronomic value based on several parameters. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that different genotypes responded differently to the agrometeorological effects present during the unfavorable growing season of 2025, even with the use of drip irrigation. -
Smart parameter analysis of maize hybrids with different FAO numbers (Zea mays L.)
5-20Views:181Maize is a heat-intensive crop and requires a lot of water. Rainfall is the main meteorological factor determining the yield, and water scarcity is the biggest problem in maize production. When the growing season is dry and temperatures are above average, soil drought typically develops in the summer. The dry autumn-winter period preceding the growing season increases the risk of drought. In our research, we studied five different FAO maize genotypes using intensive cultivation techniques, determining the yields that can be obtained and the main yield parameters that determine the yields and the relationships between them. In our experiment, all five maize hybrids showed excellent yield performance. The highest yield was obtained by hybrid H11 (18.4 t/ha), which exceeded the values of the other tested hybrids by about 5.7–22.8%. Significant differences were measured between the individual grain weight values of the hybrids. Hybrid H13 stood out with the highest individual grain weight value, exceeding the other genotypes by 1.6–25.9%. Based on the correlation analysis between the individual parameters, we demonstrated a significant (p<0.05) positive correlation of individual grain weight with individual grain number values (r=0.568) and also with grain moisture at harvest (r=0.592). Our results indicate that each of the measured individual yield parameters contribute differently to high yield, resulting in significant effects. -
Analysing the smart parameters of maize hybrids
21-36Views:166In this research, excellent maize hybrids grown over a large area in Hungary were tested in a super intensive drip irrigation experiment. The experiment was set up at the University of Debrecen, Institutes for Agricultural Research and Educational Farm, Debrecen Educational Farm and Landscape Research Institute (DE AKIT DTTI) the Látókép Crop Production Experimental Station. In our study, eight hybrids with different FAO numbers were analysed under field conditions in drip irrigation long-term experiments. The yield of each genotype and the yield components determining the yield were estimated on the basis of individual sampling after physiological maturity. After sampling, the average individual grain weight, individual grain number, thousand grain weight and yield of each genotype were determined by individual sample processing. Despite unfavourable agro-meteorological factors, intensive production techniques resulted in yields of genotypes H3, H5 and H6 all exceeding 15 t ha-1, indicating high yield stability of the examined genotypes. Two factors, individual grain number and individual grain weight, are of primary importance in the development of yield. Genotype-specific evaluation of these factors revealed that the genotype H6 was prominent in the values of individual grain number, outperforming the other examined hybrids by about 9–34%. In addition, in the experiment, the H5 hybrid also had an individual grain number exceeding 600 grains per ear, significantly outperforming the other tested hybrids. The genotype H4 proved to be the most outstanding in terms of thousand grain weight with a value of 465.71 g. These results showed that the hybrid had 10–27% higher thousand grain weight compared to the other tested genotypes. Of the examined hybrids, H2 and H3, which exceeded 400 g thousand grain weight, showed outstanding values despite the fact that they are short maturity hybrids. -
Examination of drought tolerance in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and maize (Zea mays L.)
43-46Views:63The experiments were set up in the foil tent in Szarvas, at the Galambos experimental site belonging to the MATE KÖTI Department of Irrigation Development and Land Improvement. 10 liter white plastic buckets were used as cultivation pot. The diameter of the bucket is 27.5 cm, so the ground surface is 593.6 cm2. The wheat experiment was set up on November 4, 2020, with 3 wheat varieties, at 3 water supply levels (Field Water Capacity „FWC”; FWC40%, FWC60% and FWC80%) in 3 repetitions, in a total of 27 cultivation pots. The maize experiment was set up on April 19, 2021, with 5 maize hybrids, at 3 water supply levels, in 3 repetitions, in a total of 45 cultivation pots.
In the soil we use, the amount of parts that can be silted is 31.6%, so it is a sandy loam physical type soil, the chemistry is weakly acidic (pHH2O 6.54), based on the total salt content soluble in water, it has a low salt content (salt%<0.1).
In the experiment, the drought tolerance of 3 different wheat varieties (MV Nemere, GK Szilárd and Sothys) and 5 maize hybrids (GKT 4486 (Lehel), GK SILOSTAR, GKT 372, GKT 376, GKT 3385) was investigated under conditions deprived of natural precipitation.
The following phenological parameters were measured in the experiment: Relative chlorophyll content (SPAD) with a Konica SPAD 501 instrument, Leaf area (cm2) (CI-203 Handheld Laser Leaf Area Meter), Leaf area index (LAI m2/m2), Plant height (cm), Leaf and stem weight (g), Root weight (g), Ear/Tube weight (g) and yielding parameters.
In the experiment, all three wheat varieties responded very well to the increase in water content. Total biomass and root mass also increased, but the change from FWC40% to FWC60% was on a larger scale than from FWC60% to FWC80%.
When examining the amount of grain yield, in the case of the lowest water supply (FWC40%), the most yield was produced by Sothys (34.15 g/cultivation pot; 5.75 t/ha), while the lowest yield was given by Mv Nemere (26.69 g/cultivation pot); 4.50 t/ha). The largest yields were obtained in the case of the best water supply. Sothys produced a very good yield (69.58 g/cultivation pot; 11.72 t/ha) with a water supply of FWC80%, and the lowest yield here was also achieved by MV Nemere (56.70 g/cultivation pot; 9.55 t/ha) with yield.
The quality test results of the wheat showed that the quality parameters of the three investigated varieties uniformly deteriorated as a result of the increased water supply. The value of the larger amount of available water increases the yields, which negatively affected the quality.
From the results of the maize experiment, it can be deduced that the chlorophyll content of the maize hybrids was higher with good and average water supply (FWC80% and FWC60%), and that the hybrids remained green longer and photosynthesized longer, that is, the growing time of the maize hybrids was extended with good water supply.
In dry conditions (FWC40%), the performance of two hybrids was outstanding. Under these conditions, the maize hybrids GKT 372 and GKT 376 gave 65% more cob mass than the hybrids following them. The other important investigated property is the "irrigation reaction" of the hybrids. Based on our tests, GK SILOSTAR is a maize hybrid with a good reaction to irrigation but sensitive to drought, while GKT 376 is a maize hybrid with an excellent reaction to irrigation and also drought tolerance. -
Correlation between quality and quantity of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in different crop years
103-118Views:75Winter wheat is one of the most popular arable crops in Hungary and worldwide. Its cultivation dates back thousands of years and it is one of the most versatile crops. Its most important role lies in human nutrition, as it is an important staple food for mankind. The global population boom has led to an increasing demand for food raw materials of sufficient quantity and quality. The most important quality parameters for winter wheat are protein content, gluten content, gluten content, starch content and Zeleny index.
In this comparative genotype experiment, the quality parameters and the relationship between the quantity and quality of winter wheat of different genotypes were investigated in two different rainfall years: a drought year (2021/2022) and a rainfall year (2022/2023). The obtained results show that in the rainy year, the genotypes had significantly higher yield averages and on average higher values for moisture and protein content. Pearson's correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between the quantity and quality of yield for each genotype in both growing seasons and averaged over the two growing seasons. It was found that quality parameters were negatively correlated with yield quantity when averaged over the two examined years and genotypes. -
The effect of soil scraping on topography and yield on soil with heavy texture and endangered by excess water
45-60Views:49In this study, the authors examined the applicability of scraping on an agricultural field in Békés County with a heterogeneous topography and a high risk of inundation by excess waters. The impact of the intervention was analysed through the homogeneity of the topography and yield data. It was found that the level differences of the originally created height categories on the plot have decreased, the surface of the plot has become more homogeneous, as a result of which no inundation has developed in the area since the scraping in 2020. The previously detected significant differences between the yields of the height categories were reduced, and the homogeneous topography resulted in a homogeneous crop yield on the whole plot. The crop yields achieved since the intervention exceeded the yields of previous years and resulted in a large yield surplus compared to the regional averages. Based on the obtained results, scraping can be considered an effective landscape-forming operation that can be recommended in areas with high risk of excess waters. -
Yield and water use efficiency of maize hybrids with different nitrogen responses in a long-term experiment
35-48Views:158Precision crop production and precision nutrient supply are essential factors in modern agricultural practice. The positioning of new maize hybrids is possible with accurate knowledge of the nutrient needs and responses of plants. As our climate becomes increasingly extreme, the exposure of crop production to weather conditions continues to increase, which requires the cultivation and breeding of hybrids that successfully adapt to the environment. In this study, we tested two Syngenta maize hybrids in a long-term experiment at six nitrogen rates (control N0 kg/ha dose and level 60 kg/ha with nitrogen doses increasing to 300 kg/ha), on irrigated and non-irrigated platforms. The experiment was carried out in a drought year (2021), which is not ideal for maize, with poor rainfall. Based on the results, the hybrids showed two different fertilizer reactions.
We can classify SY Minerva as a “workhorse”. This group of hybrids is characterized by the fact that they give sufficient yield even on variable soils, their nitrogen response is already marked at low doses (possibly even without nitrogen application, N0+PK 7.23 t/ha and 9.55 t/ha on non-irrigated and irrigated platforms), at higher doses the nitrogen response is more moderate, and yield depression is also experienced, as in the experimental results (the difference between N240+PK and N300+PK levels was -1.77 t/ha on the non-irrigated platform). The initial (N0 kg/ha active ingredient) nitrogen response of the “racehorse” SY Solandri hybrid is low, however, by increasing the nitrogen dose to a high level, they show an outstanding increase in yield under ideal, near-ideal environmental conditions. This can be seen from the yield response to No+PK and N240+PK levels on both platforms.
On non-irrigated and irrigated platforms, N0+PK levels were 4.62 t/ha and 6.11 t/ha, respectively. N240+PK also produced yields of 10.94 t/ha and 13.25 t/ha under non-irrigated and irrigated conditions. SY Minerva showed outstanding water use results in both treatments with values of 44.4 kg and 40.1 kg/mm in the control plots (N0+PK). SY Solandri had significantly better WUE (Water Use Efficiency) and IRRWUE (IRRigated Water Use Efficiency) values (28.3 and 25.7 kg/mm). Irrigation showed outstanding results for both hybrids in both platforms with optimal N240+PK supply. SY Solandri had an extremely high value of 67.1 kg/mm in the non-irrigated treatment.
Based on results, it can be concluded that genotype plays a major role in the development of water use efficiency, fertilization positively influenced the WUE and IRRWUE values of both tested hybrids related to the control plot. -
Effect of different fungicides on yield and seed infestation of white lupin (Lupinus albus L.) and common vetch (Vicia sativa L.)
41-58Views:60A fungicide study was carried out in lupin (Lupnis albus L.) and common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) plants on the sandy soil of the AKIT Nyíregyháza Research Institute of the University of Debrecen, Hungary, the number of literature sources on plant protection in these small crops is limited. Various fungal diseases can set back plant development and negatively affect yields, and the vitality of harvested seeds is also important. In both crops, three treatments were applied in mid-June: tebuconazole + prochloraz, mefenoxam + mankoceb and azoxistrobin + cyproconazole. NDVI data were collected using the Trimble GreenSeeker HCS-100 device to monitor vegetation changes. After harvest, the harvested crop was cleaned in the Westrup Kamas laboratory seed cleaner and the amount of crop residue was documented. In addition, we documented the different seed yields and then placed the seeds on Papavizas substrate for seed infection testing. According to the NDVI values recorded in the lupin plots, the highest average NDVI value was recorded in the tebuconazole + prochloraz treated plots after fungicide treatment. The least infested seed according to both dates of recording also came from plots treated with tebuconazole + prochloraz, but these plots did not perform particularly well in terms of seed yield. Based on NDVI values following common vetch fungicide treatment, the highest average NDVI values were found in plots treated with tebuconazole + prochloraz. In the seed infestation test, the control plots had the lowest number of infected seeds at the first evaluation, and at the second evaluation, seeds from plots treated with azoxistrobin + cyproconazole had the lowest number of fungal infected seeds. Based on harvested seed yield values, none of the fungicide treatments caused yield increases in any of the examined plants. No significant difference was found, but the average seed yield of the control plots was the highest for both crops. Some of the active substances used have been or will be removed soon, therefore, new active substances should be included in the research. -
The impact of drought on winter wheat yield under conventional and reduced tillage systems in the Nagykunság region
3-18Views:80In the present study, the effects of reduced and conventional tillage on the grain yield of winter wheat were investigated during the extremely dry 2021/2022 growing season in Karcag, Hungary. The research was conducted within the framework of the local long-term soil tillage experiment, where the reduced tillage plots have been managed since 1997 using non-inversion, loosening-based primary tillage and mulch farming. The soil of the experimental site is a clayey loam textured, deep-saline meadow chernozem. The experiment was carried out in four replications on meso-plots (1890 m²). For the evaluation of the results, key local meteorological data were considered, including precipitation totals, temperature data, and potential evapotranspiration (PET), from which the climatic water balance (CWB) was calculated. Descriptive statistical parameters were determined, and following a (positive) homogeneity test, a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed. Based on the results, reduced tillage achieved an experimental average of 4.45 (±0.10) t ha⁻¹, significantly outperforming (p<0.05) the conventional, moldboard ploughing-based tillage yield of 3.62 (±0.29) t ha⁻¹. The processing and evaluation of meteorological data revealed that the 2021/2022 growing season in Karcag was extremely dry for winter wheat production, particularly during the critical spring vegetative and especially the reproductive stages. This drought intensified the differences in soil water management between reduced and ploughing-based conventional tillage systems. Based on these findings, the previously described soil moisture-conserving effect of reduced tillage was confirmed, and it was concluded that significant yield surpluses can be achieved with reduced tillage in winter wheat production during drought years. -
Results of a water and nutrient management (N dose) long-term experiment
41-55Views:165The results of the field experiments provide a stable orientation basis for the continuous, broad development of agriculture. The long-term complex fertilisation experiment established in 1983 at the University of Debrecen's Látókép Experiment Site provides a unique opportunity to compare the nutrient responses of maize genotypes between non-fertilised control plots and five increasing nitrogen application rates in both irrigated and non-irrigated experimental conditions. Based on many years of experimental results, we found statistically proven yield enhancing effects of all nitrogen fertilisation levels. Nitrogen utilisation efficiency was highest at the 60 kg/ha treatment, resulting in 45.8% higher yields. Evaluating the irrigated experimental version, we found that optimal water supply resulted in an increase in yield stability for both the control and increasing nitrogen doses, with less measurable seasonal variability in yield, with a yield increase of 0.49–2.58 t/ha. The effect of irrigation in increasing crop stability was also reflected in fertiliser use efficiency. On average, 120 kg nitrogen/ha increased maize yield by 62–105% and 180 kg nitrogen/ha by 57–112% compared to control plots. -
Analysis of the physiological effects of different sowing dates in a maize stand
69-86Views:60The aim of this study is to examine how different sowing times affect the germination dynamics of maize hybrids with different ripening periods, as well as their impact on maize development and yield. The experiment was conducted in Hungary, at the Látókép Experimental Station of the University of Debrecen, on calcareous chernozem soil, in a growing season with average precipitation (2023). In the field experiment, three sowing dates were used: Sowing Date I (April 17), Sowing time II (April 24), and Sowing time III (May 23). The same hybrids were included in the experiment for all three sowing dates (H1: FAO 380, H2: FAO 490). Following the germination dynamics test, plant height and relative chlorophyll content (SPAD value) were measured in the stand at three time points: 6-leaf (V6), 12-leaf (V12), and 50% silking (R1) phenological phases. During the first two days of the germination phase, both early and medium-ripening hybrids germinated at nearly the same percentage (H1: 76%, H2: 75%) in Sowing Date I, while in Sowing Date II (H1: 84%, H2: 88%) and Sowing Date III (H1: 87%, H2: 84%), the difference in the germination dynamics of the hybrids was more significant. Between phenophases V6 and R1, the percentage increase in relative chlorophyll content (SPAD value) was highest for hybrid H1 in Sowing Date I and for hybrid H2 in Sowing Date II, while it was lowest for both hybrids in Sowing Date III. The influence of sowing dates on SPAD values was detectable in the V12 phenophase (Sowing Date II p<0.005) for the H1 hybrid and in the V6 (Sowing time III, p<0.005) and V12 phenophase (Sowing time II, p<0.005). Based on the height data measured in different phenological phases, sowing date influenced the growth of maize hybrids, but this effect was not statistically significant in all cases (R1). For the different maize hybrids, the differences in yield results between the hybrids within the examined sowing dates and within each sowing date were not statistically significant. This suggests that sowing date did not have a pronounced effect on the yield of any of the hybrids. At the same time, however, the best sowing date (H1-Sowing date I. 14.959 t/ha; H2-Sowing date II. 14.208 t/ha) may allow for better water and nutrient utilisation and avoid heat stress or drought periods affecting flowering.
The statistically significant strongest correlations between SPAD value and yield for both maize hybrids were found at Sowing Date I and Sowing Date III in the R1 phenological phase (H1 – Sowing Date I: r=0.990**, Sowing Date III: r=0.999***; H2 – Sowing Date I: r=0.976*, Sowing Date III: r=0.944*). -
Comparative protein content and Phytophthora infestans resistance testing of Sárvári potato cultivar candidates to select a variety suitable for high quality protein production
59-86Views:67Due to the focus on potato protein from a nutritional biology point of view, in our comparative experiment we investigated the content values of multi-resistant Sárvári potato clones suitable as candidate varieties for primary breeding in order to select a candidate for protein extraction for high quality animal- and human supplementation. Prior to our experiment, multi-resistant clones bred from year to year were regularly found to have higher than average protein content (>3%), therefore the focus was on high protein content as a breed trait.
Comparative dry matter, starch- and protein content tests of the most promising candidates were carried out under identical soil conditions, nutrient supply, irrigation and weather factors, and under identical plant protection, keeping in mind the potential for organic production.
In terms of protein content, the candidate variety S05 achieved an outstandingly high result (4.88%), but in terms of yield it was lower than the second best performing candidate variety S10 (2.89%). The shorter duration candidate variety S06 was lower in terms of protein content (2.29%), but better than the standard, also medium-early Kondor, which was also used as a standard for comparison, and had the best yield. In terms of protein yield per hectare, although lower, S05 was the most suitable candidate for the experimental objective, due to its high protein content. In terms of protein yield, the candidate variety S10 yielded almost the same as Sárvári Borostyán (2.66%).
In the comparative experiment, resistance to potato late blight (Phytophthora infestans) was also tested using a susceptible control variety as host and disseminator of local populations of the pathogen. Based on the infestation scale scores for the growing season, the candidate cultivar S05 was found to be the least susceptible, with the lowest score (1.23). The candidate cultivars Sárvári Borostyán and S06 and S10 also showed low infestation (scale scores 1.43–1.67). In comparison, the susceptible cultivar Desiree scored 9 on the scale and the cultivar Kondor scored 7.49.
The next step was to optimise the cultivation technology and nutrient supply to maximise protein yield by further field trials of promising candidates. -
Analysis of physiological and yield parameters of smart maize hybrids in an intensive drip irrigation long-term experiment in the growing year 2024
5-24Views:65The yield and plant physiological parameters of different FAO maize hybrids grown over a large area in Hungary were examined under drip irrigation conditions. The results of the study showed that hybrid H4 was the best performing hybrid in terms of yield, specific grain weight, ear weight and thousand kernel weight. Hybrid H6 showed similarly good results, especially in grain number, suggesting that it may also play a role in increasing yield. The medium performance of hybrids H5 and H3 indicates that they are potentially competitive. The trends observed in the analysis of NDVI values provide important information on the growth patterns of the examined hybrids. For hybrid H1, the sharp decline in the second half of the growing season is indicative of the stress situation of the plants. Hybrids H1, H2 and H3 developed under optimal conditions in the V12 phenological phase, but could not maintain the early growth stage in the later phases. In contrast, hybrid H4, which had a longer growing season, was able to maintain its vegetative activity after the V12 phase. When SPAD values were examined, the H1, H5 and H6 hybrids maintained growth until the V12 phase, then declined after the R4 phase. Hybrid H4 showed the highest SPAD values in the R5 phase, while hybrids H1, H5 and H6 showed more stable SPAD values, but decreased in the later phases. Overall, the outstanding performance of hybrids H4 and H6 suggests that these hybrids should be preferred in intensive production environments with good yield potential. -
Effect of the year on yield, grain moisture, and quality parameters of maize (Zea mays L.) (2020–2023)
51-68Views:195Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important arable crops in Hungary, whose yield stability and quality have increasingly depended on annual and climatic conditions in recent years. The period between 2020 and 2023 clearly illustrates that variability in temperature and precipitation patterns fundamentally determines yield performance, grain moisture content, and quality parameters. While in 2020 balanced heat and water availability ensured high yields, favorable starch content, and an extended ripening period, in 2022 the extreme drought and record-high temperatures resulted in a drastic yield reduction, low grain moisture, and moderate starch content.
During critical phenological phases – particularly flowering and grain filling – heat stress and water shortage greatly influenced pollination success, dry matter accumulation, and thus overall crop quality. In unfavorable years, an increase in protein and oil content at the expense of starch was often observed, indicating an inverse relationship between quantitative and qualitative parameters. Although lower grain moisture at harvest can offer technological advantages, rapid water loss may lead to structural damage and an increased risk of mycotoxin contamination.
The results of the examined period highlight that extreme weather factors caused by climate change—heatwaves, drought periods, and precipitation deficits—not only limit yield potential but also alter quality traits. Therefore, in the future, adapting to year-to-year variations will play a key role: the use of stress-tolerant hybrids, optimization of sowing dates, adoption of water-conserving tillage practices, and targeted irrigation strategies can collectively enhance the stability of maize production under changing agroclimatic conditions. -
Evaluation of the yield components, NDVI values, and water release dynamics of maize hybrids (Zea mays L.)
77-96Views:65Adapting to climate change is crucial in maize production. Changes in climatic factors are particularly noticeable in Hungary, which is why special attention must be paid to nutrient and water supply when growing maize hybrids.
In our analysis of agrotechnical studies for the year 2025, we focused primarily on the weather characteristics and meteorological conditions during the growing season and their effects, as well as soil and air temperature as the main factors determining crop yield.
We conducted our measurements and observations at the University of Debrecen’s Látókép Experimental Station. Here, we performed important analyses by comparing precise measurement data collected over several years. This time, the subjects of our study were maize hybrids H320 and H420. Based on the results of our long-term experiments, we can conclude that both maize hybrids possess good phenotypic traits, have a stable structure, and exhibit good root and stem characteristics. H320 produced a yield of 15.99 t/ha with relatively rapid water loss dynamics; its grain moisture content at harvest was 16.9%. The H420 corn hybrid achieved a higher yield of 18.12 t/ha with water loss dynamics that can be described as moderate. Grain moisture content at harvest was 17.67%.
Monitoring the plant’s nitrogen supply provides important information. One of the most commonly used methods is the NDVI index. We consistently measured higher NDVI values for the H420 hybrid.
Grain drying proceeded at a moderate rate following physiological maturity; the harvest date was slightly later than in previous years, but weather conditions did not hinder harvesting operations.
For the H320 hybrid, 140 days and 1,399 HU were required from emergence to physiological maturity, while for the H420 hybrid, 145 days and 1,446 HU were required from emergence to physiological maturity.
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