Maize hybrid seed production manual

Abstract

Maize hybrid seed provides farmers with varieties containing improved genetics, such as high yield potential and unique trait combinations to counter diseases and adverse growing conditions. However, the quality of hybrid seed depends greatly on field production methods, both in adherence to quality assurance standards and implementation of appropriate agronomic management. While open pollinated maize seed production is relatively straightforward, hybrid seed production requires additional field practices that are critical to success. Hybrid maize seed production involves deliberately crossing a female parent population with a male parent in isolated fields. Thus, from the very start of hybrid seed production, the identity and arrangement of the two parent populations determine the outcome. Each hybrid variety is composed of a specific combination of a female (seed bearing) and male (pollen providing) parents. The field management of the two parents is also important and requires attention to timing of planting, elimination of off-types, removal of tassels from the females before pollen shedding, separate harvesting of the female seed and careful shelling and processing of the seed to maintain seed quality. The sequentially dependent nature of the process means that any errors in earlier stages have a significant impact on following stages and major errors or problems can result in complete failure or rejection of the crop. This manual provides a guide to maize hybrid seed production, with particular reference to field procedures, so that seed growers and seed companies can cost-effectively obtain productive and quality seed suitable for farmers.