Irrigated Maize Production on Blain Soils at Douglas Daly Research Farm

F. O'Gara, S. Lucas, C. Ham and M. Hearnden
Department of Primary Industry, Fisheries and Mines
The main objective of this research was to determine the yield potential and agronomic requirements of irrigated maize in the Daly Basin. Maize is a minor crop in the NT but one of the few field crops that lend themselves to centre pivot irrigation in the dry-season. It is a good rotation crop with peanuts and is capable of producing high yields and moderate to good returns under good management. In the past, commercial maize yields have been disappointing due to grower inexperience with the crop under tropical conditions. For the past four years the Department has been evaluating commercial lines of maize under irrigation at Douglas Daly Research Farm (DDRF). The objective was to develop agronomic experience with the crop, to ascertain its potential under irrigation in rotation with peanuts and provide growers with specific recommendations on its production and management in this environment.