Author : Than Da Min

Summary : In plant breeding programmes, potential genotypes are usually evaluated in different environments (locations and years) before desirable ones are selected. Genotype x environment (G x E) interaction is associated with the differential performance of materials tested at different locations and in different years, and influences selection and recommendation of cultivars. Highly stable genotypes are desirable. Furthermore, spatial variability on soil properties and crop yield has been one of the major objectives in investigations related to agriculture production. Performance and stability of grain maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes were evaluated at four locations in Peninsular Malaysia viz. Padang Rengas (Perak), Rhu Tapai (Terengganu), Sungai Udang (Melaka) and UPM, Serdang (Selangor), in two years. The objectives of this study were : (1) to determine the performance of 14 grain maize genotypes for grain yield and yield components at the four locations in two years, (2) to evaluate the G x E interaction effects, (3) to identify high yielding genotypes at each location and their stability by using different stability parameters, (4) to evaluate the spatial variability of soil N,P, and K, plant N,P and K, and their influence on grain yield, and (5) to investigate the relationship among grain yield and soil and plant nutrient variables.