Comparison of Dekalb(DK) MAIZE DK 8031 vs DK 777, which highland maize variety is better

Choosing the right variety is critical for any crop, but with maize, there is so much choice, where do you begin?

Last season, a study was conducted in four fully replicated maize variety trials in the highlands: Timau, Rumuruti, Nakuru, and Eldoret, to independently compare a range of maize varieties and provide farmers with knowledge.

We grew up to 17 maize varieties at each site based on their suitability to the area and harvest yield. Here's what we discovered...
 

The 6218 Maize Variety

Starting our assessment with Kenya Seeds, the 6218 variety pleasantly surprised us with its resilience and high yields. Its robust disease resistance, notably against Grey Leaf Spot at the Eldoret site, outshone many other varieties even with the application of two fungicides. However, it's worth noting that 6218 isn't ideally suited for mechanical harvesting due to its tall cob height, posing a real challenge. While grain quality was slightly above average, initial seed germination rates were satisfactory.

The 6213 Maize Variety

In comparison, 6213 performed less favorably across all sites, yielding approximately 5% lower than 6218 as expected. While disease resistance was acceptable, the tall cob height limited its appeal, especially for those considering mechanical harvesting. In summary, 6218 represents a notable advancement over 6213.

624 & 629 Maize Seed

Further evaluations of 624 and 629 revealed even lower yields compared to 6213, offering minimal agronomic or quality advantages.

Pioneer Maize Seed 30G19

Moving on to 30G19 from Pioneer, this widely-used maize variety disappointed across all sites. Struggling with grain quality and particularly withstanding higher plant populations, it raises concerns about its performance. While it may offer good grain quality if harvested promptly, its weak stems make it susceptible to performance issues akin to entering a football match barefoot when the rest of the team is equipped.

Pioneer P3812W

Another Pioneer variety, P3812W, impressed consistently across all sites with its robustness and cob droop. Excelling under typical maize crop populations, it requires diligent rust management but demonstrates exceptional evenness and smooth seed flow through planters. Moreover, its tolerance to nicosulfuron positions it as a valuable asset for future herbicide management.

PAN 691

The reliable PAN 691 variety consistently performed well but lagged behind in grain quality and yield compared to top varieties at each site, registering a 15-20% deficit.

PAN 15

PAN 15 showcased excellence, ranking among the top three varieties at three sites. However, concerns arise regarding grain quality due to Diplodia presence in some cobs and Watery Rots across all sites. Prompt harvesting is recommended to manage these issues.

DK 90-89

From Monsanto, DK 90-89 consistently ranked in the top third for yield, offering excellent quality white grain. While it requires diligent rust management, its robustness against Grey Leaf Spot and outstanding standing power make it a noteworthy contender.

DK 777

DK 777 emerged as a surprise in the trials, displaying exceptional evenness and "fix ear" characteristics. Yielding approximately 10% above 90-89 and slightly below the top varieties, it boasts excellent grain quality.

DK 8031 & DK 8033

DK 8031 and 8033, early-stage materials, showcased significantly lower yields compared to high-altitude varieties, suggesting unsuitability except for specific regions like Rumuruti. Nonetheless, it prompts consideration for double cropping opportunities, perhaps with peas, to diversify cropping systems.

DK 777 has a slight advantage over DK 8031/8033, its maize quality and durability during hard  times is better.

Other Maize Varieties

7m-81 and Syngenta's SY 594 excelled in warmer environments, offering even cob fill and short plants facilitating late foliar applications. While both yielded in the top 10%, lodging risk requires careful management.

SC Twiga 83 and 600-23A yielded below average with lodging issues in 600-23A, yet provided ample green material for forage.

In conclusion, amidst varying conditions and planting dates, it's crucial to select proven varieties with reliable grain quality and support them with accurate planting, nutrition, and weed control for optimal performance.