The Effect of Polyethylene Film and Polypropylene Non-Woven Fabric Cover on Cobs Parameters and Nutritional Value of Two Sweet Maize (Zea mays L. var. saccharata Bailey) Hybrids

In 2012–2014, at the Research and Didactic Station of Department Horticulture Wroclaw University Environmental Life Sciences (51°19′06″ N, 17°03′49″ E), field studies were conducted to evaluate responses two sweet maize hybrids sowing dates (early optimum) five methods plant coverings—polyethylene film: perforated (PE), red (PER), green (PEG), polypropylene non-woven fabric (PP), control (C), with non-irrigation systems. Total yield morphological characteristics cobs compared. 2012 soluble sugars carotenoids content measured. The use cover beginning growth (PE PER) significantly influenced number rows, while PE PEG increased grains per cob. Covering sown a later date, polyethylene film fabric, ensured better production effects than using such covers after earlier sowing. Signet F1 hybrid was charact0erized by higher sugar Rustler lutein zeaxanthin levels. application optimum date resulted in cobs, 11.3%, early increase as result applied date. dry matter positively correlated sucrose, glucose, fructose. change also depended on accumulation kernels. study confirmed correlation accumulated growing degree days (AGDD), revealed dependence grain quality grain.