Evaluation of grain yield and its components of some experimental, registered and commercial ZP maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids

Abstract

The grain yield and its components of eighteen experimental, one registered and two commercial maize hybrids were examined in six different environments. The main objectives were to identify the best performing experimental and registered hybrids and to select appropriate hybrids for approving and commercialization. Based on the results, many decisions are made. Experimental hybrid Exp.15 is submitted for testing to the Variety Commission of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of the Republic of Serbia. This hybrid, as a high-yielding and a stable one, could enrich the assortment of registered mediumlate maize hybrids in Serbia. First year of its testing for the purpose of being registered is going to be 2020. Further, registered hybrid ZP 685 is suggested for commercialization as one of the best performing in present study. In addition, the goal of this study was also identification of the superior inbred lines for use in future breeding programs. Inbred lines L1 (BSSS) and L4 (Independent heterotic group) are chosen for crossing with an aim to create a new origin population - source for deriving new recombinant inbred lines. Cross L1 x L4 will be a part of maize breeding program at Maize Research Institute “Zemun Polje” in 2020. Lines L1 and L4 are also suggested for crossing with all others Lancaster lines from MRIZP (which are not parental components of tested hybrids) for deriving new experimental F1 hybrids. As well, Lancaster lines L5, L6 and L7 should be crossed between themselves for creating new origin populations for deriving new recombinant Lancaster inbred lines. Hybrid Sister 1 had very high and stable grain yield and as such it is the most cost effective for seed production.