Evaluation of yield and yield components of grain corn under the influence of planting date and hybrid in winter cultivation

In Orzoiyeh region, water deficit is the most important environmental stress limiting plant growth and production. A field experiment was conducted over two years 2010-2011 in Orzoiyeh Research Station to determine the most suitable of planting date and hybrid for winter cultivation of corn . This study was conducted as a split- plot in randomized complete block design with four replications. Main plots were planting date with four levels ( 3 February, 17 February, 2 March, 18 March) and sub plots were four different corn hybrids (TWC 600, TWC 647, SC 704, SC 720). Results showed that there weren’t any significant difference between planting dates for grain yield and yield components, but planting in 18 March had the highest plant height and ear diameter. Between corn hybrids, SC 720 produced highest grain yield (10.48 t ha-1). Grain yield in SC720 hybrid was 2.02 t ha-1 higher than control (SC 704). SC720 hybrid had the highest amounts of ear diameter and number row per ear than others. Based on these results, can be concluded that in Orzoiyeh region, cultivation of corn in the range of 3 February to 18 March is possible, but 18 march is the best planting date. As well as SC 720 as a new hybrid can be introduced in this region.