Evaluation of Drought Stress Effects on Yield Components and Seed Yield of Three Maize Cultivars (Zea mays L.) in Isfahan region

ABSTRACT: In order to evaluation of drought stress effects on yield components and seed yield of three maize cultivars, an experiment was conducted in 2010-2011 in a research farm of farming building of Islamic Azad University Khorasgan (Isfahan) Branch located in Khatun abad village (latitude 32o /40ʹ N and Longitude 51o /48ʹ E). A split plot layout within randomized complete block design with 3 replications was used. Main plot were irrigation treatmens Including: 70 (for control), 90 (moderate water stress), 110 and 130 mm (severe water stress) from evaporation pan evaporation class A, and sub plots were cultivars (Sc 704 , Sc 604 and Sc 301). Condition represented the effects of irrigation treatment was significant on number of seeds per row ,1000 seed weight, seed yield, biological yield and harvest index. Control treatment resulted the maximum of all mentioned factors. Effect of cultivar was significant on number of rows in ear, number of seeds per row, 1000 seed weight, seed yield, biological yield and harvest index. The maximum of all mentioned factors related to Sc704 cultivar. Interaction of irrigation and cultivar was significant on number of seed per row, seed yield and biological yield. On the basis of the results obtained, the 70mm treatment and Sc704 cultivar might be suitable for maize productive under the condition similar to the present study.