Evaluation of pre release hybrids of maize for yield potential in rainfed ecosystems of coastal Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the phenological, morphological, and yield related performance of 12 prerelease maize hybrids under rainfed conditions in Coastal Andhra Pradesh during Kharif 2022. Significant genetic variability was observed among genotypes for traits such as days to 50% pollen shedding, silking, plant height, ear height, ear yield, kernel yield and shelling percentage. Hybrids like PH 420186, NK 6240, PAC 751 and PDHM 171213 demonstrated strong performance. Notably, PH 1534 combined early maturity, compact plant structure and a competitive yield, making it suitable for moisture-stressed environments. The findings emphasize that improving maize resilience and yield in coastal ecosystems requires a focused approach to hybrid selection.