Abstract:
Plant architecture is a key factor for optimum productivity in most crops. Unfortunately, this
aspect of maize (Zea mays L.) crop configuration has recieved little attention from researchers in
the rainforest ecologies of Nigeria.We investigated the effects of the environment on canopy
architecture and, in turn, canopy orientation on grain yield of maize in the rainforest of sw
Nigeria. Five maize varieties were planted weekly from March to November of 2016 and 2017 in
randomized complete block experiments at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching &
Research Farm (OAU T&RF). Data were collected on canopy architecture, which was quantified
with upper and lower leaf angle (LAUpper and LALower) and leaf orientation values (LOVUpper and
LOVLower) obtained at the grain-filling stage.-At maturity, grain yield, along with some of its
components (ear length, ear diameter and kernel row number) were also obtained from all plots.
The data were subjectedto ANOVA, correlation, regression, and sequential path analyses to
determine the relationship of grain yield with canopy architecture. The environment and
genotype had significant effects on canopy architecture, grain yield (P = 0.01; R2 ? 80 %), and
yield components. Leaf orientation value of the upper canopy (LOVUpper), with correlation
coefficient r = 0.61** and direct positive causal effect (P = 0.61), rather than LAUpper, LALower
and LOVLower, greatly affected grain yield. In conclusion, LOVUpper was the single most
important leaf architecture index that positively affected grain yield which, in turn, was
influenced greatly by the environment in the rainforest ecology of SW Nigeria. |
