Maize is one of the most important crops in India, and it is grown throughout the country. In the northern regions, maize is grown in the summer months, and in the southern regions, it is grown in the winter months. Maize is a warm-season crop and requires a temperature of 20-30°C for germination and growth. The crop is generally sown in the rainy season, but it can also be grown in the summer season, known as Zaid.
Maize is a demanding crop and requires a high amount of water and nutrients. The sowing time of maize in Zaid determines the yield of the crop. In general, the suitable sowing time of maize in Zaid is from June to July. This is because the soil temperature is around 25-30°C, which is ideal for the growth and germination of maize. The rainfall during this period is also suitable for the crop, which helps in its development.
The sowing of maize in Zaid should be done in well-drained soil. The soil should have good fertility, and the pH range should be between 6.0 and 7.5. Before sowing, the soil should be prepared by ploughing and harrowing, and the soil should be made into fine tilth. Maize is generally sown in rows with a spacing of 60-75 cm, and the seeds are sown at a depth of 3-4 cm.
The seeds of maize should be of good quality, and they should be treated with fungicides to prevent seed-borne diseases. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing, which helps in the germination of the seeds. The sowing of maize in Zaid should be done in a way that the crop gets maximum sunlight.
The crop requires good irrigation, and the soil should be kept moist during the early stages of growth. After the appearance of the third leaf, the crop should be thinned out, leaving one plant per 20 cm. The crop should be protected from pests and diseases, and appropriate measures should be taken to prevent them.
In conclusion, the suitable sowing time of maize in Zaid is from June to July. The soil should be well-drained, fertile, and have a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The seeds should be of good quality and treated with fungicides. The crop requires good irrigation, and the soil should be kept moist during the early stages of growth. Proper care should be taken to prevent pests and diseases. With proper management, maize can yield good results during the Zaid season.