Study on phosphorus concentration of corn hybrids adapted in South Dakota, USA

This research aims to quantify the phosphorus (P) concentration in the commercially adapted ten corn hybrids in South Dakota and to determine if selection can be carried out for these traits to develop useful inbred lines; to determine the effect of planting densities on P concentrations and dry matter (DM) yields. Ten commercially adapted corn hybrids were planted, in randomized complete block design with three replications, in three different locations, and in two planting density. Results showed that hybrid were significantly different for phosphorus concentration. High population density plants contained low mean P concentration in the environments having high mean P concentrations. DM yields were highly dependent on hybrids’ genetics but were altered by the environments where they were grown. Based on the results, it is possible to carryout selection based on P concentration without giving up DM yields. However, effect of environments should be considered while establishing a selection program, as P concentration of plants interacts with the environmental effects. It is suggested to include more and diversified germplasm for further study.