In the second and final edition of the Seed Co article series on maize, we discuss seeding rates, depth of planting, nutritional requirements and crop protection.

Seeding rates and depth of planting

Seeding Rates: The recommended average plant population for maize for grain in Zambia is currently at 50,000 plants per hectare. With our certified germination percentage in the range 95 to 100%, we always advise to plant 5 to 10% more seed than the target final plant stand so that the average of 50,000 plants per hectare is guaranteed. At Seed Co, our 25kg bag of seed will give anything from 49,000 to 62,000 seeds, depending on grade size. Large rounds and flats will be the least in a bag, but are most useful when dry-planting, whilst small flats and rounds are the most per bag. The inter-row spacing is dependent on implement width, and will either be 75 cm or 90 cm from one row to another. Spacing in the row (from plant to plant) will also vary from 15 cm to 25 cm.