BBCH-scale (maize)

BBCH-scale (maize) is a phenological scale used to identify the growth stages of maize (Zea mays). The scale is part of the BBCH-scale system, which is a standardized system used for the growth stages of various plants. It was developed by the Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt, and CHemical industry, hence the acronym BBCH. The scale for maize is specifically tailored to describe the unique developmental stages of this crop, from germination to maturity.

Overview

The BBCH-scale for maize consists of a series of codes, each representing a specific stage in the plant's development. These codes are divided into principal and secondary growth stages, with the principal stages being denoted by the first digit and the secondary stages by the second digit. The scale ranges from 00, representing the germination stage, to 99, indicating the plant's maturity and senescence.

Growth Stages

The growth stages of maize according to the BBCH-scale are as follows:

Germination (00-09)

• 00 - Germination
• 01 - First shoot emerges from soil

Leaf Development (10-19)

• 10 - First leaf through soil surface
• 11-19 - Formation of leaves with or without sheath

Tillering (20-29)

• (Maize does not typically undergo a tillering phase, so this category is often not applicable)

Stem Elongation (30-39)

• 30 - Beginning of stem elongation
• 31-39 - Further elongation of the stem

Booting (40-49)

• (Not applicable to maize as it is more relevant to cereals like wheat and barley)

Inflorescence Emergence (50-59)

• 51 - First tassel visible
• 59 - Tassel fully emerged

Flowering (60-69)

• 61 - Beginning of flowering
• 69 - End of flowering

Development of Fruit (70-79)

• 71 - First kernels visible
• 79 - Kernels fully developed

Ripening (80-89)

• 83 - Kernels hardening
• 89 - Full maturity, kernels ready for harvest

Senescence (90-99)

• 92 - Beginning of leaf senescence
• 99 - Plant dead and dry

Application

The BBCH-scale for maize is widely used in agriculture for various purposes, including the timing of pesticide applications, irrigation scheduling, and the prediction of harvest dates. It provides a universal language for the description of maize growth stages, facilitating communication among farmers, agronomists, and researchers.

Importance

Understanding the BBCH-scale for maize is crucial for effective crop management. It allows for the precise application of agronomic practices at the most appropriate developmental stages, thereby optimizing crop health, yield, and quality.

BBCH-scale (maize) Resources
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