Maize production: the first 40 days
FAST FACTS
Maize plants grow rapidly during the first 30 to 40 days after planting, and should be provided with adequate nutrients during this period.
The key yielddetermining stage for maize is called the switching point, which occurs during the plant’s vegetative stages. This is the point of development were the yield potential is determined.
Weeds can significantly reduce maize yield. It is therefore important to start the production season with a clean land that is free of weeds.
Maize farmers who properly understand the growth and development of their plants are better able to apply the correct production and management practices at the right time, and thereby achieve optimal yield.
While producers have no control over environmental stress conditions such as rain or drought, they can mitigate these risks. For example, they can choose a hybrid cultivar, improve their tillage methods, improve the condition of the soil, apply fertiliser, rotate crops, irrigate, and control pests and diseases.
There are two developmental phases in the life cycle of the maize plant: the vegetative phase (V phase) and the reproductive phase
