Accumulation and translocation of dry matter and nitrogen in different purple corn hybrids (Zea mays L.)

In this study, five purple corn hybrids (ZS7615, ZF7139, FS7011, FG5701, 68G1) and one commercial grain hybrid ZD958 were studied to investigate the changes in accumulation, partitioning and translocation of dry matter and N. Results indicated that the total aboveground dry matter of all hybrids increased from anthesis to maturity. Conversely, the dry matter of vegetative organs significantly decreased. All hybrids exhibited an obvious trend of decrease in concentrations of N from seedling stage to maturity. However, N accumulations had reversely changes. Of all the purple corn hybrids, the hybrid 68G1 had a relatively higher grain yield, grain N and dry matter of husk and cob which had the highest anthocyanins. The harvest index and N harvest index of 68G1 were also higher than other purple corn hybrids. There was a significant correlation between grain yield and harvest index and grain N. The findings are helpful to make a nutrient regime recommendation for purple corn production. It also suggests a further genetic improvement for breeding new purple corn hybrid which had both higher grain yield and aboveground dry matter.