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Application of a Maize Crop Simulation Model in the Central Region of Malawi

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 October 2008

P. K. Thornton ,
A. R. Saka ,
U. Singh ,
J. D. T. Kumwenda ,
J. E. Brink  and
J. B. Dent
P. K. Thornton
Affiliation:
International Fertilizer Development Center, PO Box 2040, Muscle Shoals, Alabama 35662, USA
A. R. Saka
Affiliation:
Department of Agricultural Research, Chitedze Research Station, PO Box 158, Lilongwe, Malawi, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, Scotland
U. Singh
Affiliation:
International Fertilizer Development Center, PO Box 2040, Muscle Shoals, Alabama 35662, USA
J. D. T. Kumwenda
Affiliation:
Department of Agricultural Research, Chitedze Research Station, PO Box 158, Lilongwe, Malawi, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, Scotland
J. E. Brink
Affiliation:
International Fertilizer Development Center, PO Box 2040, Muscle Shoals, Alabama 35662, USA
J. B. Dent
Affiliation:
Institute of Ecology and Resource Management, Edinburgh School of Agriculture, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, Scotland
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Summary

A computer crop simulation model of the growth and development of maize was validated using data sets obtained from field experiments run at various sites in the mid-altitude maize zone of central Malawi between 1989 and 1992. The model was used to provide information concerning management options such as the timing and quantity of nitrogen fertilizer applications and to quantify the weather-related risks of maize production in the region. It was linked to a Geographic Information System to provide information at a regional level that could ultimately be of value to policy makers and research and extension personnel.

Type
Research Article
Information
Experimental Agriculture , Volume 31 , Issue 2 , April 1995 , pp. 213 - 226
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1995

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References

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