Impact of sowing date on growth and yield attributes of Pop Corn grown under different densities

ABSTRACT: The effect of different sowing dates (Jun 5th , Jun 20th, July 6th , July 21th) and densities rates of 60000, 70000, 80000 and 90000 plant/ha on growth and yield components of Popcorn (Zea mays everta Sturt.) was investigated at a research field, in Arak, Iran, during 2009 and 2010 growing seasons. The experiment was carried out using split plots based on randomized complete block design with four replications. Results showed that sowing date effect was significant on number of grains per ear, number of nodes per stalk, ear height, ear diameter, husked green ear weight, 1000-grain weight, plant height and grain yield of Pop corn. Densities significantly affected plant height, ear diameter, ear height, grain yield, husked green ear weight and 1000-grain weight. Interaction effect of sowing date × density was only affected 1000-grain weight, grain yield and husked green ear weight. Whereas the rest of studied traits were remained unaffected. The highest grain yield (7815.16 kg ha-1) was that of July 6th coupled with 80000 plants/ha of density. It is concluded that optimum density /sowing date for popcorn crop is 80000 plant/ha. It is also suggested that further research should be done under different environmental conditions.