What is Plant density?
One hectare equals 10 decares, so plants per hectare divided by 10 gives plants per decare. Plant density can be calculated from plant spacing (row and in-row distance); conversely, the in-row distance can be worked out from a target plant count.
The right density depends on the variety’s growth habit, irrigation, soil fertility and whether the crop is grown for grain or silage. Lower densities are generally preferred in dry, rain-fed conditions and higher densities in irrigated, fertile fields.
Why does it matter when choosing seed?
Reading plant density correctly is essential for calculating seed quantity, setting up the planter and reaching the density recommended for the variety. Check whether the sheet uses decares or hectares as the unit.
CasSeed varieties related to this topic
The relevant characteristics are listed on each variety’s technical sheet.
FAO 500–550 · Hybrid maize seed
Early, drought-tolerant and widely adaptable — the leader of its maturity group.
Related terms
Plant spacing
Plant spacing shows how far apart seeds are sown within the row and how far apart the rows are; for maize it is given in centimetres as in-row and between-row distance.
Thousand kernel weight
Thousand kernel weight is the weight in grams of 1,000 kernels and indicates how large and well filled the kernels are.
Germination and emergence vigour
Germination is the seed taking up water and putting out a root and shoot; emergence vigour is the germinated seed’s ability to reach the soil surface quickly and strongly.