Скачать или смотреть ভুট্টা চাষে উত্তরাঞ্চলের চাষীদের ভাগ্য বদল। Maize Cultivation in North Bengal in Large Scale

Corn (Zea mays) is one of the most widely grown cereal crops in the world, used for food, animal feed, and industrial products. Successful corn cultivation requires careful planning and management. Here’s a complete guide:

1. Selecting the Right Variety
Choose a variety based on climate, soil type, and intended use (grain, silage, sweet corn, or popcorn).

Hybrid varieties often offer better yield, disease resistance, and adaptability.

2. Climate and Soil Requirements
Temperature: Corn thrives in warm temperatures (20–30°C).

Rainfall: Requires 500–800 mm of rainfall during the growing season.

Soil: Well-drained loamy soils with a pH of 5.8–7.0 are ideal.

3. Land Preparation
Plow and harrow the field to achieve a fine seedbed.

Add organic matter or compost to improve soil fertility.

Use soil testing to determine fertilizer needs.

4. Planting
Best Time: Planting time varies by region; usually, it's done in spring or at the onset of rains.

Spacing: 60-75 cm between rows, 20-25 cm between plants.

Seed Rate: 18–25 kg per hectare.

Depth: Sow seeds 3–5 cm deep.

5. Fertilizer and Nutrient Management
Nitrogen (N): 120–200 kg/ha (split into basal dose and top dressing).

Phosphorus (P): 60–90 kg/ha for root and grain development.

Potassium (K): 40–80 kg/ha to enhance disease resistance.

Apply organic fertilizers like farmyard manure or compost for better soil health.

6. Irrigation
Corn requires regular watering, especially during germination, tasseling, and grain filling.

Drip or sprinkler irrigation is recommended for water efficiency.

7. Weed and Pest Control
Weeds: Use pre-emergence herbicides and manual weeding (twice within 30–45 days).

Pests:

Fall armyworm, stem borers, and aphids can attack corn.

Use biological control, neem oil, or chemical pesticides if needed.

8. Disease Management
Common Diseases: Maize streak virus, rust, blight, and downy mildew.

Control Measures: Use resistant varieties, crop rotation, and fungicides.

9. Harvesting
Corn is ready for harvest when kernels harden and moisture content is around 20-25%.

For grain corn, dry to 13-14% moisture before storage.

Silage corn is harvested at the dough stage for maximum nutrition.

10. Post-Harvest Handling
Drying: Sun-dry or use mechanical driers to prevent mold.

Storage: Store in airtight containers or silos to avoid pests.

Processing: Corn can be processed into flour, animal feed, ethanol, or corn syrup.

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