Maize Genomics and Genetics 2025, Vol.16, No.1, 1-9 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 5 is transplanted into plastic steel frame greenhouses, and fresh ears are harvested in mid May, which is one month earlier than open field cultivation. The selling price of fresh ears is over 15 yuan per kilogram, and the output value reaches 150 000 yuan/hm2 (Zhao et al., 2020). 6 Regional Applications of High-Efficiency Cultivation Techniques 6.1 Characteristics of fresh-eating corn cultivation in different ecological zones Fresh-eating corn cultivation varies significantly across different ecological zones due to variations in climate, soil type, and water availability. In semi-arid regions, techniques such as ridge-furrow precipitation harvesting with plastic mulching have been shown to improve water use efficiency and maize yield by enhancing soil water storage and balancing hormonal changes in maize seeds (Wang et al., 2020). In dry semi-humid areas, the ridge-furrow with plastic film mulching practice has been effective in increasing maize productivity and resource use efficiency, particularly in wheat-maize double-cropping systems. In the Huang-Huai-Hai region, optimizing planting density and nitrogen application rates has been crucial for enhancing maize yield and resource utilization efficiency (Xin and Tao, 2019). 6.2 Adaptability and promotion strategies for regionalized technologies Adaptability of cultivation techniques is essential for their successful implementation across different regions. In semi-arid and dry semi-humid areas, the ridge-furrow system has been adapted to improve water use efficiency and yield by modifying planting density and fertilization methods (Wu et al., 2024). Promotion strategies include educating farmers on the benefits of these techniques and providing support for the adoption of innovative practices such as surface drip fertilization and optimized nitrogen application. Additionally, integrating genotype-environment-management interactions can enhance productivity and eco-efficiency in maize cultivation. 6.3 Case studies of regional high-efficiency cultivation techniques Several case studies highlight the success of high-efficiency cultivation techniques in different regions. In the semi-arid regions of China, the ridge-furrow precipitation harvesting technique with plastic mulching significantly improved maize yield and water use efficiency (Li et al., 2017). In the Huang-Huai-Hai region, surface drip fertilization combined with increased planting density and reduced nitrogen application rates led to higher yields and resource efficiency. In the North China Plain, optimizing genotype-environment-management interactions has been shown to enhance productivity and reduce environmental risks in wheat-maize rotations. These case studies demonstrate the potential of tailored cultivation techniques to improve maize production across diverse ecological zones. 7 High-Efficiency Cultivation and Sustainable Agriculture 7.1 Impact of high-efficiency cultivation on soil health High-efficiency cultivation techniques, such as conservation tillage and diversified cropping systems, have been shown to positively impact soil health by enhancing soil nutrient balance and reducing greenhouse gas emissions (Liu, 2024). For instance, zero tillage (ZT) systems have demonstrated higher levels of available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the soil compared to conventional tillage systems, thereby improving soil fertility and structure. Additionally, practices like integrated soil-crop system management (ISSM) that combine organic and inorganic fertilizers have been effective in maintaining soil health while achieving high maize yields and nitrogen use efficiency (Agbodjato and Babalola, 2024). 7.2 Practices of eco-friendly cultivation techniques Eco-friendly cultivation techniques include the use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), integrated nutrient management (INM), and conservation agriculture practices. PGPR can enhance root development and nutrient absorption, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, thus promoting sustainable agriculture (Zhang et al., 2024). INM strategies, which blend organic and inorganic fertilizers, optimize nutrient availability and reduce environmental impacts such as nutrient runoff and soil degradation. Conservation agriculture practices, including crop residue retention and no-till farming, contribute to improved soil carbon sequestration and eco-efficiency (Babu et al., 2020).
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