Maize Genomics and Genetics 2025, Vol.16, No.1, 1-9 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 2 practical guidance for improving the efficiency of corn production. This study can guide farmers and agricultural stakeholders to adopt efficient cultivation techniques that can both increase productivity and ensure the sustainable use of resources. This is particularly important in the context of global challenges such as climate change and resource shortages, as efficient agricultural practices play an indispensable role in maintaining food security and economic stability. 2 Growth Characteristics and Technical Demands for High-Efficiency Cultivation of Fresh-Eating Corn 2.1 Growth cycle and physiological characteristics of fresh-eating corn Fresh-eating corn, such as waxy corn, exhibits specific physiological characteristics that are influenced by cultivation techniques. For instance, the physiological traits like root system vigor, leaf area duration (LAD), and chlorophyll content can be enhanced through methods such as seedling transplanting and ground film covering, which ultimately lead to higher yields (Wang and Hu, 2021). The growth cycle of fresh-eating corn is also affected by the timing of sowing, with early spring planting recommended in certain regions to optimize growth conditions. Additionally, the selection of corn varieties with desirable traits such as early maturity and high yield potential is crucial for successful cultivation (Pereira et al., 2020). 2.2 Technical demands and challenges for high-yield, high-efficiency cultivation of fresh-eating corn Achieving high yield and efficiency in fresh-eating corn cultivation requires addressing several technical demands and challenges. Key techniques include the selection of high-quality varieties, isolation cultivation, and appropriate sowing times to maximize growth potential. The use of controlled-release urea (CRU) has been shown to enhance nitrogen use efficiency and increase fresh ear yield, particularly when applied at specific soil depths. However, challenges such as pest and disease management, as well as the need for precise field management practices, remain critical to achieving optimal yields (Resende et al., 2019). 2.3 Key factors in the planting and management of fresh corn Effective planting and management of fresh corn involve several key factors. Rational planting density and timely harvesting are essential to maximize yield and quality (Liu et al., 2019). The application of fertilizers, particularly nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, must be carefully managed to ensure nutrient availability without causing environmental harm. Additionally, irrigation techniques, such as subsurface drip irrigation, can significantly impact growth and yield, with deeper irrigation depths often resulting in better outcomes. The integration of plant growth-promoting bacteria can also enhance nutrient uptake and improve overall plant health and productivity (Shahini et al., 2023). 3 Key High-Efficiency Cultivation Techniques 3.1 Variety selection and optimization Variety selection is crucial for optimizing maize yield and efficiency. Selecting high-yielding and disease-resistant varieties can significantly enhance productivity. For instance, the study on summer maize in Hebei Province emphasizes the importance of choosing suitable varieties to achieve high yield and efficiency (Ghosh et al., 2020). Additionally, integrating density and fertilizer management can optimize biomass and nutrient distribution, which is essential for selecting the right variety that can thrive under specific cultivation patterns.Fresh corn varieties such as 'Xue Tian 7401' (Zhe Shen Yu 2018003), 'Zhe Tian 19' (Zhe Shen Yu 2020002), and 'Zhe Nuo Yu 18' (Zhe Shen Yu 2021005) have been widely promoted and applied in Zhejiang Province in recent years due to their good quality and suitable growth period (Figure 1). 3.2 Sowing density and rational crop rotation systems Optimizing sowing density is a key factor in improving maize yield. High-density planting, as demonstrated in maize-soybean relay intercropping, can significantly increase yield by enhancing light interception and photosynthetic productivity (Figure 2). Moreover, rational crop rotation systems, such as the wheat-maize double-cropping system, can improve resource use efficiency and maintain high productivity (Kanampiu et al., 2018). These systems help in better utilization of available resources and reduce the pressure on soil nutrients.
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