Application of DSSAT CERES-Maize to Identify the Optimum Irrigation Management and Sowing Dates on Improving Maize Yield in Northern China

The increase in irrigated maize plantings Northern China has increased the demand for irrigation water region, resulting chronic shortages drier years. Efficient and use are essential sustainable development management of resources area. This research applied DSSAT-maize Loess Plateau (Fenhe basin) to determine suitable optimum sowing dates ensure stability spring production. model was calibrated using full treatment 2017–2019 growing seasons. Crop data, such as plant phenological phases, aboveground biomass, crop yield, leaf area index, were used calibration. calibration showed great consistency between measured simulated with nRMSE (normalized root mean square error) ranging from 0.77% 21.6%. field values LAI, soil content, efficiency evaluate model’s performance, evaluation found be satisfactory acceptable 1.9% 25.3%. Optimum productivity 15 25 May. timing volume application 85 mm at tasseling phase grouting respectively. Therefore, yield can by applying altering date case rainfall is insufficient satisfy crops Fenhe basin.