Analysis of the climatic constraints to maize production in the current agricultural region of Argentina, a probabilistic approach

MADDONNI, G. A.,

THEORY & APPLICATION CLIMATOLOGY

SPRINGER WIEN

Lugar: Hamburgo; Año: 2012 vol. 107 p. 325 - 345

0177-798X

In this paper a simple method of analysis was proposed to characterize the impact of climatic conditions of a wide region of Argentina on potential maize grain yield (Zea mays, L.), and the occurrence of various climatic constraints (low temperatures and low soil water content during the emergence of seedlings, frost, drought stress and heat stress) along maize cycle. The analysis was based on previous studies of the eco-physiology of maize crops and the use of climate records from six locations of the region under study. Results were analyzed using a probabilistic method, later organized as a checklist to consider when deciding on sowing date in a location of the region. Thus, for each production scenario (combination of location and sowing date), farmers would have a tool that allows them to pay particular attention to the restrictions more likely to occur, to include some cultural practices to avoid or mitigate severe climatic constraints on maize crops.