Abstract:The study aimed to assess the influence of varying planting densities on the agronomic traits, biological yield, and nutritional quality indicators of corn silage in the Jiuquan region, with the objective of determining the optimal planting density for corn silage varieties in this area. The Dajingjiu 26 variety was selected as the experimental subject, and three distinct planting densities were implemented: 6.75×104 plants/hm2 (low), 8.25×104 plants/hm2 (medium), and 9.75×104 plants/hm2(high). Measurements were conducted at half maturity when the milky line of the corn kernel reached its midpoint.The findings revealed a positive correlation between corn silage yield and increased planting density, reaching its zenith at a density of 9.75×104 plants/hm2. High-density cultivation resulted in a notable increase in dry grass yield by 6.5% compared to medium density and an impressive surge of 24.5% compared to low density.Plant height and ear position exhibited incremental growth with higher planting densities while stem diameter decreased proportionally alongside reduced leaf retention rate.Furthermore, there was a significant reduction in crude protein content with escalating planting density (P<0.05). Conversely, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber content demonstrated an upward trend as planting density increased; high-density cultivation led to an increase of 2.2%-7.7% and 3.6%-14.9%, respectively, compared to medium- or low-density cultivation.Considering all pertinent indicators encompassing biological yield, agronomic traits, and quality attributes collectively suggests that Dajingjiu 26 is best suited for cultivation at a density of 8.25×104 plants/hm2 in the Jiuquan region.
