Efecto de la práctica de la Dobla sobre el rendimiento del maíz en la región huetar atlántica de Costa Rica (ING)

Abstract

A study was carried out in Huetar Atlantica region of Costa Rica, in order to measure the effect of different timing of the “dobla” in the maize final yield. The “dobla” is a cultural practice performed 40 days after silking and consists of bending down the stalk to put the cob upside down.  The objective of this practice is to protect the grains from the heavy rainfall, winds and birds. The results reveal a negative effect over the dry weight of the kernel when the “dobla” is performed early after silking; however, it does not stop the kernel growth. On the other hand, it was observed that the “dobla” did not affect the kernel yield when the grains humidity was around 46%, that is reached, 30 days after silking. According to the results it is advisable that the peasant-farmers of the region perform the “dobla” 30 days after silking, instead of the usual 40 days, thus preventing damages caused by early birth attack and winds.