Characterization of the diversity of maize (Zea mays L.) grown in the province of Kenedougou

For more than a decade, the expected yields of cultivated varieties have fallen short of stakeholders' expectations. However, little research has been done on the type and quality of seeds used by producers. This study was initiated to shed light on the issue for stakeholders by exploring the varietal diversity of cultivated maize in relation to the characterization of cobs and grains. To achieve this objective, samples were collected, and a semi-structured survey was conducted among sixty-four (64) farmers. Agromorphological measurements were then taken on the cobs and grains of the samples collected. These measurements included the average cross-sectional area and length of the cobs, the length and width of the kernels, the percentage of dented kernels, and the weight of 1,000 kernels. The results showed significant varietal diversity in the corn grown. Improved varieties accounted for 78% of the samples collected. Among these, composite varieties are the most widely grown (52.4%). In addition, varieties that mature in less than three months (early varieties) are the most popular among producers, accounting for 55.6% of the total. First-generation seeds are also the most widely used. In terms of acquisition methods, the largest supply is found in state-subsidized seeds, at 46%. In terms of cob and grain characteristics, the samples collected showed a very high variability of cobs and grains for all traits evaluated except for mean cob diameter (MED) and number of rows per cob (NR). This diversity in the varieties grown should encourage stakeholders to promote extension services, participatory selection.