Agronomic assessment of three genotypes of yellow maize under family farming conditions

Abstract

Objective: To agronomically evaluate three yellow corn genotypes under family farming conditions. Methodology: A randomized complete block design was implemented with three treatments and four blocks. Treatments consisted of three genotypes (ARG 8700 T - single hybrid, DRACO 212 - triple hybrid, and Marginal 28T - variety). The variables evaluated were plant height, first ear insertion height, leaf area, number of rows, kernels per row, ear weight, kernel weight, and yield. The data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance using the F test, after assessing normality and homogeneity of variance. Tukey's test at 5% was applied to compare means. SISVAR 5.6 statistical software was used. Results: For plant height, first ear insertion height, and leaf area, the highest values were obtained by the Marginal 28T variety, significantly superior to the other genotypes. For productive components and yield, the single (ARGT 8700 T) and triple (DRACO 212) hybrids stood out, significantly outperforming the Marginal 28T variety. Conclusion: The agronomic evaluation of yellow corn genotypes under family farming conditions revealed statistically significant morphological and productive differences, attributable to the genetic makeup of the materials evaluated. The genotypes that stood out in yield were the triple hybrid (DRACO 212) and the single hybrid (ARGT 8700 T). However, the conservation and improvement of traditional varieties remains strategic to ensure sustainability, resilience, and genetic autonomy in these production systems.