Use of native corn (Zea mays L.) from two edaphoclimatic regions of Veracruz with potential as hydroponic green forage

Abstract

Objective: evaluate native corn from two different edaphoclimatic regions, with potential for hydroponic green forage (HGF) without nutrient solution.

Design/methodology/approach: A completely randomized experimental design was used with 5 treatments: T1 hybrid (HR), T2 Almolonga (ALF), T3 Coyutla (CPC), T4 Coyutla (CFJ) and T5 Coyutla (CMJ) each with 3 repetitions.

Results: The ALF treatment was superior in the variables of height (28 cm) and root length (14.7 cm). For leaf width and length CMJ presented the highest values ​​(2.8 and 20.5 cm). However, ALF was superior in yield (36.80 kg·m²), dry biomass (4.89 kg·m²), protein content (29.88%), crude fiber (39.28%) and mineral content (4.95% N, 4.95 P, 5.95 K and 1.97 Kg dry biomass).

Limitations on study/implications: An alternative of native genetic materials is given to be used as HGF.

Findings/conclusions: Native ALF corn with irrigation without nutrient solution presented the best results in agronomic variables, yield, protein content, crude fiber and mineral content in biomass, being an alternative to be used as HGF.