Jiayi Wu , Qian Li

Modern Agricultural Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China
Author    Correspondence author
Maize Genomics and Genetics, 2025, Vol. 16, No. 5   
Received: 10 Aug., 2025    Accepted: 22 Sep., 2025    Published: 11 Oct., 2025

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Maize is a globally important staple crop, and optimizing its yield through agronomic practices remains a primary focus in agricultural research. This study investigates the effects of plant density and fertilization strategies on maize yield optimization, emphasizing their individual and combined influences. We examined how different plant densities, ranging from low to high, affect yield potential under varying environmental and management conditions, and identified the optimal densities for specific agronomic scenarios. Additionally, we explored the role of nutrient management-particularly nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients-highlighting precision and site-specific fertilization strategies that enhance crop productivity. The interaction between plant density and fertilization was also analyzed, revealing their synergistic impact on yield response, plant morphology, and soil health. A regional case study conducted in the North China Plain further demonstrated the practical implications of integrated density-fertilization regimes. This study underscores the significance of genotype × environment × management interactions and points to the need for adaptive, innovative practices to achieve sustainable yield gains. Future research should aim to refine optimization models and promote evidence-based recommendations for diverse agroecological contexts.

Maize yield; Plant density; Fertilization strategy; Agronomic optimization; Sustainable agriculture