Husk leaves contribution to dry matter and grain production as well as N distribution in flint corn (Zea mays L.) genotypes differing in husk leaf area

Significance of husk leaves, i.e., laminae extending from husks which envelop grains for grain production was analyzed. Hybrid lines of flint corn (Zea mays L.) differing in husk leaf area nd on without husk leaves were grown in a field in order to evaluate the contribution of husk leaves to grain production and dry matter production after silking and to the absorption and partitioning of N. Total dry matter production after silking and grain yield were not correlated with husk leaf area in the intact plant. Although total dry matter production after silking and grains yield decreased by the removal of culm leaves, they were not affected by husk leaf removal. When husk leaves alone remained, the dry matter and grain production increased along with the increase in husk leaf area. With a husk leaf area equivalent to about 9.5% of whole plant leaf area, about 42% of whole plant dry matter was produced. The dry matter and grain production per unit husk leaf area was higher than that per unit culm leaf area. These results suggest that husk leaves have a higher potential capacity to produce grain compared to culm leaves