If successful, all Syngenta seed brands, including Garst, Golden Harvest and NK, will incorporate the water optimisation technology Photo: Syngenta

Syngenta is developing hybrid maize that is designed to prosper in both excessive and limited rainfall conditions.  By using selective breeding of native and biotechnology traits, alongside water optimisation technology, the crops are designed to yield well in a variety of weather conditions. Current trials have achieved consistently positive yield results in both dryland and irrigated maize line trials in North and South America.

Wayne Fithian, maize product business lead for Syngenta in Golden Valley, Minnesota, highlighted the benefits of the research. “Water optimisation technology could revolutionise maize production in the western and central Corn Belt where moisture is usually the limiting factor to yields and irrigation is a major expense,” he explained.

“Multiple factors interact to influence how well a corn plant is able to produce yield when available soil moisture is below optimum including pollination success, ability to maintain photosynthesis and root system strength. The impact that drought has on a corn crop is very complex, but the real yield killer is poor kernel set on the ears”.

“Our goal is a crop that sets full ears under normal conditions, but also does an excellent job of setting kernels under drought conditions. These hybrids could also allow farmers to reduce the amount of water applied through irrigation.”

If successful, all Syngenta seed brands, including Garst, Golden Harvest and NK, will incorporate the water optimisation technology.  Mr Fithian emphasised its usefulness in helping maize growers manage risk, reduce crop stress and produce consistent annual yields less dependent on rainfall.

“Syngenta is committed to being a leader in developing agriculture-based solutions to address pressing global issues, including variable climatic conditions,” Mr Fithian said. “This rapidly emerging water-optimisation science will help our customers meet our growing demand for food, feed and fuel.”
By Rebecca Debens

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