Reduced stem nonstructural carbohydrates caused by plant growth retardant had adverse effects on maize yield under low density.

Enhancing maize lodging resistance with plant growth retardants (PGRs) is common in maize production. However, the underlying mechanisms of yield formation as affected by PGRs are still poorly understood. A field experiment contained PGR application (a mixture of ethephon and cycocel, EC) with normal (T1) and double (T2) doses and water control (CK) was conducted at four maize plant densities (4.

Heat Stress After Pollination Reduces Kernel Number in Maize by Insufficient Assimilates.

Global warming has increased the occurrence of high temperature stress in plants, including maize, resulting in decreased the grain number and yield. Previous studies indicate that heat stress mainly damages the pollen grains and thus lowered maize grain number. Other field studies have shown that heat stress after pollination results in kernel abortion.