Real-Time Monitoring of Canopy Chlorophyll Content Enhances Maize Yield

Strategic Insights -

A recent study published in Scientific Reports has shed light on the importance of real-time monitoring of canopy chlorophyll content for understanding crop growth and guiding precision agricultural management. The research, conducted over two years (2020-2021), focused on the spatiotemporal dynamics of SPAD readings and their correlation with maize yield under rainfed and irrigated conditions. The study, led by researchers from Galgotias University, found that efficient nitrogen management is essential to maximize maize yield, particularly under varying water regimes.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study utilized a strip plot design to investigate the spatiotemporal dynamics of SPAD readings and their correlation with maize yield under rainfed and irrigated conditions.
  • Eight precision nitrogen management practices were implemented, including SPAD at sufficiency index and Green Seeker at response index, achieving ranges of 86-100% and 1.11-1.41, respectively.
  • The findings revealed that irrigated maize produced significantly higher grain yields (6347 kg ha-1) compared to rainfed maize (5262 kg ha-1).
  • The highest yield (9508.2 kg ha-1) was achieved when nitrogen was applied at a sufficiency index of 96-100%.
  • The correlation between SPAD values and grain yield was strongest at reproductive stages (VT and R4), with R-2 values of 0.99 and 0.98 under rainfed conditions.
  • Multivariate analysis indicated critical management stages for optimizing yields in both conditions.

Statistics:

  • Grain yields under rainfed conditions: 5262 kg ha-1
  • Grain yields under irrigated conditions: 6347 kg ha-1
  • Highest yield achieved: 9508.2 kg ha-1 (at a sufficiency index of 96-100%)
  • Pearson's correlation coefficient (R-2) values between SPAD values and grain yield: 0.99 and 0.98 under rainfed conditions, 0.95-0.96 under irrigated conditions

Sources:

  • Spad Dynamics In Maize Crop With Precision Nitrogen Management Under Rain-fed and Irrigated Conditions. Scientific Reports, 2025;15(1).
  • Scientific Reports can be contacted at: Nature Portfolio, Heidelberger Platz 3, Berlin, 14197, Germany.
  • NewsRx. Findings from Galgotias University Broaden Understanding of Maize Crops (Spad Dynamics In Maize Crop With Precision Nitrogen Management Under Rain-fed and Irrigated Conditions). Biotech Week. July 30, 2025; p 517.