An inverstigation on the effects of maize seed size and planting depth on seedling emergence and seedling vigour

Abstract

This study examined how maize seed size and planting depth affect plant growth and development. A two-way factorial experiment, arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD), tested three seed sizes (small, medium, large) and three planting depths (3 cm, 5 cm, 8 cm). Both factors significantly influenced (p < 0.05) germination percentage, germination rate, mean germination time, leaf count, plant height, leaf length, leaf area, and leaf width. Large seeds planted at a shallow depth (3 cm) yielded the highest germination percentage (93.3%), germination rate (8.8), mean germination time (4.3 days), leaf count (9.33), plant height (65.27 cm), leaf length (24.23 cm), leaf area (110.42 cm²), and leaf width (6.07 cm). Conversely, small seeds at the deepest planting depth (8 cm) produced the lowest values for these traits. The study recommends using large seeds and a 3 cm planting depth for optimal maize production and emphasizes their importance in maize farming systems. These findings offer practical insights for maize farmers and agricultural practitioners, supporting the development of more efficient maize production strategies.