DOI: https://doi.org/10.5513/JCEA01/27.2.4905
Original scientific paper
Optimisation of maize (Zea mays L.) physiological growth under field conditions by targeted water supplementation using a precision drip irrigation system
2026, 27 (2) p. 401-410
Brian SSEMUGENZE, Akasairi OCWA, Joseph ESIMU, Adrienn SZÉLES, Árpád ILLÉS, János NAGY, Csaba BOJTOR
Abstract
The application of precision drip irrigation systems has gained extensive interest as a tool for improving crop yield, growth, and water-use efficiency. This study assessed the impact of precision drip irrigation on the physiological performance and growth of maize during the 2023 growing season. The experimental material included two maize hybrids, namely, FAO290 and FAO490. The examined physiological growth indicators included leaf area index (LAI), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and relative chlorophyll content (SPAD). Data collection was conducted at four growth stages: V12, R1, R4, and R6. Irrigation had a significant effect on SPAD readings (P<0.001), while it had no significant effect on either NDVI or LAI. In comparison with the control, the following values were recorded in irrigation treatments: 17.2%, 9.5%, and 11.4% for LAI, NDVI and SPAD, respectively. FAO490 showed better hybrid performance. Irrigated FAO490 showed 3.1%, 5.3% and 1.4% percent increase for LAI, NDVI, and SPAD values, respectively, compared to the FAO290 hybrid, concluding to a better physiological response to water supplementation of FAO490 compared to FAO290. The study justifies the impact of precision drip irrigation on maize physiological performance and growth, with FAO490 responding more favourably than FAO290. Therefore, the application of precision irrigation systems and the adoption of responsive hybrids act as coping strategies to improve maize growth under water-stressed areas and those with variable rainfall patterns.
Keywords
maize, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, leaf area index, irrigation
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