Factors influencing maize seed recycling and their implications to hybrids
1997
Akulumuka, V.C. | Mduruma, Z.O. | Kaswende, J.S. | Nkonya, E.M.
Earlier research on maize in Tanzania focused on breeding open pollinated varieties rather than hybrids for low- and midaltitude dry areas. Consequently, open pollinated varieties were planted more than hybrids. At present the proportion of hybrids developed and released for these areas is increasing. Surveys conducted in eastern and northern Tanzania revealed that farmers are recycling open pollinated varieties for over four years and hybrids for three years contrary to recommendations. Farmers reported the high cost of hybrid seed was a factor leading to that practice. Also, the practice of recycling open pollinated varieties seems to have a carryover effect on hybrids. Farmers do not notice a significant yield reduction on recycled hybrids. Farmers have to sell three bags (300kg) of grain maize if they want to buy ten kilograms of hybrid seed. This paper recommends that the price of hybrid seed should correspond to the price of grain maize. In addition, farmers need to be made aware of potential hybrid performance and be encouraged to improve their seed management techniques. Short of that, the future of hybrid maize in low- and mid-altitude dry areas, and probably other areas, is questionable.
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