2025
Producers in the southern regions of Ukraine prefer mid-early corn hybrids.
They note that FAO (the Food and Agriculture Organization maturity index) is an indicator of the maturity of corn hybrids. It determines the length of the growing season from emergence to full maturity:
- Early-maturing hybrids: FAO 100-199.
- Mid-early: FAO 200-299.
- Mid-season: FAO 300-399.
- Mid-late: FAO 400-499.
- Late-maturing: FAO 500-599.
"The higher the FAO, the longer the ripening period and, usually, the higher the potential yield — but also the greater the risks due to weather stresses," explain the specialists.
Experts give five reasons why farmers choose precisely mid-early hybrids.
1. An optimal balance between ripening speed and yield. Mid-early hybrids combine high productivity with stable ripening even with a limited amount of precipitation. This gives farmers confidence that the harvest will ripen within a favourable climatic window.
2. Reduction of climatic loss risks. The climate in many regions is increasingly characterised by sharp temperature fluctuations and frequent heat periods. Mid-early FAO hybrids have higher chances of ripening in time, without falling under peak heat.
3. Rational use of winter moisture. These hybrids can be sown already at a soil temperature of +7...+8°C, i.e. at the beginning of April. They effectively use the reserves of winter-spring moisture, which is especially important for the southern regions. Harvesting falls at the end of August-September, which makes it possible to prepare the field for the next crop.
4. Increased drought tolerance. Mid-early hybrids have a genetically determined resistance to soil and air drought. This makes it possible to preserve a stable yield even in years with a precipitation deficit — without significant losses of grain and quality.
5. Convenience in technological planning. For a farmer it is important not only to grow the harvest but also to optimally distribute time and resources. Mid-early hybrids make it possible to finish harvesting on time and prepare the field for sowing winter crops or for repeat sowings. For help in choosing a hybrid for your field, you can turn to an LNZ Group manager in your region.
