Maize Genomics and Genetics 2025, Vol.16, No.5, 276-283 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 279 5.2 GPS-based navigation and autonomous sowing GPS and Beidou navigation systems are very practical when sowing. They can help the seed drill to accurately locate, whether it is manually driven or automatically driven. Now in some places, more than 80% of the seed drills are equipped with automatic navigation, which not only saves about 17% of the operation time, but also avoids missed or repeated seeding, which improves the uniformity of seedlings and yield. There are also some robot seed drills equipped with GPS, laser scanners, and automatic control systems. They can navigate in the field and automatically adjust the width. They can sow seeds to the right position without human operation, which improves efficiency and reduces errors (Chen et al., 2022; Wang et al., 2022; Ayanniran et al., 2024). 5.3 Intelligent machinery and data-driven sowing optimization Today's intelligent seed drills are not just machines, they are also equipped with computer systems, wireless sensors and remote control functions. Through CAN bus or wireless network, the machine can collect data in real time, such as what went wrong and whether the parameters need to be adjusted, and can also be monitored from a distance (Chen et al., 2022; Xie et al., 2024). Online soil mapping and zoning technology can also tell us where to plant more and where to plant less, which can not only ensure yield but also improve resource utilization (Munnaf et al., 2024). Laser sensors plus wireless systems can also control the amount and spacing of seeds, and can immediately alarm and respond if there is a problem (Xie et al., 2021). These technologies combined not only make corn planting faster and more accurate, but also make the production process more environmentally friendly, less labor-intensive, and more adaptable. 6 Case Studies on Region-Specific Sowing Optimization 6.1 Spring maize sowing density and timing in Northeast China In Northeast China, sowing time and variety selection have a great impact on yield. If climate change is not intervened, corn yield may decrease by 11.5% to 34.6% by 2050. However, if the sowing date and variety rotation can be adjusted according to climate conditions, the yield may increase by up to 42.7% (Zhang et al., 2023). In high-latitude and mid-latitude areas, early sowing and the use of long-growing varieties are recommended; while in low-latitude areas, medium-sowing and medium-maturing varieties are more suitable. This practice can reduce the impact of high temperatures and reduce the risk of premature aging or frost (Figure 1) (Han et al., 2022). At present, the sowing date in Northeast China is basically consistent with the optimal sowing date predicted by the model, but there is still room for further improvement in yield by switching to more heat-resistant and drought-resistant varieties. 6.2 Smart seeding implementation in high-yielding North China Plain In the North China Plain, in order to grow corn well and improve efficiency, sowing technology must be "intelligent". This includes choosing the right sowing date, arranging irrigation, and selecting good varieties. Model simulation found that spring corn is best planted from early May to early June. If irrigation is carried out in time during the critical growth period, not only will the yield be high, but also mechanized harvesting will be convenient (Wang et al., 2023). Properly delaying the sowing time can help avoid bad weather, and choosing high-yield and high-quality varieties such as "Zhengdan 958" can further increase the yield (Zhang et al., 2020). Using intelligent sowing technology together with precision irrigation and nitrogen fertilizer management can not only save water and fertilizer, but also stabilize grain quality and yield (Shen et al., 2020). 6.3 Adaptive mechanized sowing in Southwest hilly regions The mountainous and hilly areas in southwest China have complex terrain and changeable climate. In these places, sowing machinery and plans must be adjusted according to local conditions. The sowing period here is greatly affected by soil moisture and temperature. Early sowing is required in dry areas, while late sowing is suitable for relatively wet areas, which is conducive to increasing yields (Shen et al., 2023). If mechanized sowing is used in conjunction with local irrigation conditions and suitable corn varieties, it can effectively deal with problems such as unstable rainfall and complex terrain. Even in a future with increasingly hotter climates and more droughts, yields can be kept stable (Huang et al., 2020; Zhang et al., 2023).
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