Best Time for Sowing Maize and Best Equipment for Higher Yield

Key Highlights:

• The ideal maize sowing period is from 15 June to 15 July.

• Use planters, GPS tractors, and no-till seeders.

• Apply herbicides like Atrazine and Tembotrione early.

• Protect the crop from Fall Armyworm with timely sprays.

• UP govt offers ₹15,000/quintal seed subsidy to farmers.

As monsoon activities are expected to begin across most parts of India, maize farmers are gearing up for the Kharif season. Sowing maize at the right time with the right techniques and equipment is crucial to achieving high-quality and high-yield crops. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and other agriculture experts have provided important guidance for farmers looking to get the best results from maize cultivation this season.

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Best Time to Sow Kharif Maize

According to ICAR, the ideal time to sow Kharif season maize is between 15 June and 15 July. This window is best suited for rainfed maize cultivation. Sowing should be done only after sufficient rainfall of more than 50 mm, ensuring the soil has the right moisture content for seed germination.

Choose the Right Machinery for Better Results

Today’s maize farming relies heavily on modern agricultural machines to improve accuracy, efficiency, and crop output. Here are some recommended tools:

• Tractors with GPS: For precise field mapping and planting.

• Planters: Ideal for even and deep sowing without disturbing the soil structure.

• Seed Drills and Disc Seeders: Especially useful in no-till farming for placing seeds directly under previous crop residues.

• Combine Harvesters: Reduce manual effort and protect soil quality during harvesting.

These tools help improve productivity while maintaining soil health.

Maize Cultivation: A Profitable Deal

Kharif maize is emerging as a profitable option for farmers, especially due to increased demand from ethanol production and poultry farming. Farmers can benefit from government support as well:

• Uttar Pradesh Government Subsidy: ₹15,000 per quintal seed subsidy under the Quick Maize Development Program.

• Subsidised Seeds: Farmers can avail of hybrid, desi popcorn, baby corn, and sweet corn seeds at subsidised rates.

• High-demand areas such as tourist regions prefer baby corn, sweet corn, and popcorn, making them good options for better income.

No-Till Maize Farming: A Smart Technique

No-till farming means sowing directly into the soil without ploughing. This method:

• Improves soil structure and moisture retention

• Promotes carbon storage

• Reduces soil erosion

Farmers can use disc seeders or no-till seed drills to implement this method efficiently. Though it requires proper management and machinery, it helps increase yields and maintain soil fertility over time.

Recommended Seed Quantity Based on Maize Variety

ICAR has given specific seed rate guidelines:

Herbicide Application:

Apply Atrazine within 2-3 days of sowing to control weeds. Use:

• 2 kg/ha in light soil

• 3 kg/ha in heavy soil

• Mix in 500 litres of water

This ensures effective weed control for up to 30 days post-sowing.

Weed Control in Zero Tillage Maize Farming

To manage weed issues in normal and zero-till maize farming, follow these sprays at 15 to 18 days (four-leaf stage):

• Tembotrione 34.4% SC @ 287.5 ml/ha + Atrazine 50% WP @ 1000 g/ha

• Or Topramezone 33.6% SC 75 ml + Atrazine 1000 g/ha

• For the Cyperus weed problem: Use Halosulfuron methyl @ 100 g/ha in 500 litres of water

Advanced Irrigation Method for Maize

Use center-pivot irrigation systems to provide a uniform water supply across the field. This system includes:

• A rotating pipe mounted on wheels

• Sprinkler heads deliver water precisely

• Ability to mix fertilizers and nutrients with irrigation water

This ensures crops receive the right amount of water and nutrients at every stage.

Protecting Maize from Fall Armyworm

Fall Armyworm (FAW) is a destructive pest of maize crops. ICAR suggests a mix of cultural, mechanical, and chemical control methods:

Preventive Measures:

• Deep summer ploughing

• Remove and destroy eggs

• Sow border crop using grain sorghum (4 traps/acre)

• Intercrop with cowpea

Organic Sprays:

• Azadirachtin 10000 ppm @ 2 ml/litre (10–15 days)

• EPN or BT sprays @ 2 ml/litre (15–21 days)

Insecticide Spray Schedule for Higher Yield

Follow this spray routine to control Fall Armyworm and increase maize production:

These measures help protect the crop from pests while improving its quality and quantity.

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CMV360 Says

Maize farming in the Kharif season can bring high profits to Indian farmers, provided they follow scientific practices. Sowing maize between 15 June to 15 July, using modern machines like planters and no-till drills, adopting zero tillage and organic techniques, and following proper pest control and irrigation methods will significantly enhance yield and crop health. With government subsidies and growing demand in the food and ethanol industries, this is the right time for farmers to invest in smarter maize cultivation.