Simulation of the Optimum Planting Windows for Early and Intermediate-Maturing Maize Varieties in the Nigerian Savannas Using the APSIM Model

The Agricultural Production Systems Simulator (APSIM) model was calibrated and validated used to identify the optimum planting windows for two contrasting maize varieties three agro-ecologies in Nigeria savannas. run 11 starting from June 1 repeated every 7 days until 16 August using long-term historical weather data selected sites representing agro-ecological zones (AEZs). evaluation with experimental showed that performance reasonable accurately predict crop phenology, total dry matter (TDM) grain yield both varieties. seasonal date analysis 2009EVDT IWDC2SynF2 depend on variety, agro-ecozones sites. Planting 15 28 simulated highest mean all agro-ecologies. In Southern Guinea savanna (SGS) where length of growing season is 180–210 days, best window 8–July 19 26 Abuja. gives attainable at Yelwa, 15–July 5 8–28 IWDC2SynF2. Northern savannah (NGS) 150–180 Zaria 8–August 2 Sabon Gari. Sudan (SS) 90–120 can be delayed up third week July. For medium-maturing IWDC2SynF2, should done by first Though Yelwa SGS, lower yields narrower sowing were than those other locations. This probably due poor soil fertility this location.