Maize

Maize (Zea mays), also known as corn, belongs to the Poaceae family and it is native to Mexico and Central America. Maize has become a staple food in many parts of the world and also, some of the maize production is used for corn ethanol, animal feed and other maize products, such as corn starch, corn syrup and raw material in industry.

Maize is widely cultivated throughout the world (from 58° N latitude in Canada and Russia to 40° S latitude in South America), and a greater weight of maize is produced each year than any other grain. The plant is a tall annual grass with a stout, erect, solid stem. Commercial classifications, based mainly on kernel texture, include dent corn, flint corn, flour corn, sweet corn, and popcorn.

Climate: Maize requires a temperature of 25 to 30 ° C, enough incidence of sunlight and in those humid climates its performance is lower. Germination requires temperatures between 15 to 20ºC. It can withstand minimum temperatures up to 8ºC.

Soil: It requires deep, rich in organic matter and well drained soils. Maize is very sensitive to root asphyxia and salinity.

pH: 6-7