Performance of Philippine Supersweet 1, Azukar var. at different nitrogen levels and planting densities in Capiz [Philippines]

Gutierrez et al. (CapSU) observed the growth and yield performance of sweet corn during the 2005 dry season under three different nitrogen (N) levels (30 kg/ha, 75 kg/ha, and 100 kg N/ha) and three planting densities (45,000 plants/ha, 57,000 plants/ha, and 69,000 plants/ha) at Burias Campus, Mambusao, Capiz. Findings of the study revealed the following: Growth parameters, particularly plant height, number of leaves, and leaf area index (LAI) of the Philippine 1 Azukar var. were not affected by N levels. Biomass weight increased at higher plant density with the highest weight of 53.11 t/ha obtained from 69,000 plants/ha. The increase in plant density had a positive effect on all yield components. The highest yield of 22.38 t/ha and 14.94 t/ha of unhusked and husked ears, respectively were obtained from 69,000 plants/ha. The N level and plant density treatments were found to have significant effects on the following growth and yield parameters: number of leaves, LAI, length of unhusked ears, and weight of husked corn ears. Using the number of ears as basis for computation, the gross income, net income, and ROI varied with N fertilizer levels. On the other hand, there was an increasing trend in gross income, net income, and ROI as planting density increases. The highest gross income and net income were observed from the treatment combination of 100 kg N/ha and 69,000 plants/ha while the highest ROI was recorded in 75 kg N/ha at 69,000 plants/ha treatment combination. Based on the above findings, Gutierrez et al. recommended the best combination of 75 kg N/ha at 69,000 plants/ha in order for farmers to get the highest gross income, net income, and ROI. Moreover, during summer, farmers were encouraged to sell sweet corn on a per weight basis to maximize profits. Further trials using other sweet corn varieties and higher planting densities in other locations during rainy season may be conducted to verify the results obtained.