Table 3_Performance of early- and intermediate-maturing maize hybrids for grain yield and secondary traits under multiple stress environments.docx

Introduction

Maize productivity in Southern Africa remains below global averages due to multiple stress factor.

Methods

This study evaluated 87 early-and intermediate-maturing maize hybrids across 13 environments (stress and non-stress) using an alpha lattie design.

Results

Significant variation (P<0.05) was observed. Grain yield ranged from 1.41 to 7.43 t ha^-1 across stress conditions. Ears per plant and ear height re key contributors to yield.

Discussions

Multivariate analysis identified 20 high-perofimng, stable hybrids suitable for multi-environment testing.