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Discuss four ecological requirements for cultivation of maize

Discuss four ecological requirements for cultivation of maize

Answers

Faith
1.Soils
Maize can grow on a wide range of soils though it performs best in deep, well drained and well aerated loam, silt loams or alluvial soils (medium textured) with good water holding capacity of pH of 5.5 – 7. These are medium textured soils as it is intolerant of water logging. During germination, the crop is salt tolerant but as salinity increases detrimental effects are observed.

2.Altitude
It can grow in a wide range of agro-ecological zones in Kenya ranging from 0-2200mabove Sea Level depending on variety. Very low or high altitudes results in poor yields.

3.Temperature
The optimum temperature for good yields is 300C. Cold conditions extends the maturity period whereas high temperatures lower the yields.

4.Rainfall
Maize grows well with 600 – 1000mm of rainfall. The rainfall should be well distributed throughout the growing period. The rainfall is most critical at flowering and silking stage. Drought at flowering time interferes with pollination and drastically reduces yield. Towards harvesting, dry conditions are required to facilitate drying of the grain.
Titany answered the question on August 16, 2021 at 07:26

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