AGROCLIMATIC APTITUDE FOR MAIZE CROP IN REGIONS OF MATO GROSSO STATE, BRAZIL

Abstract

Background. The maize crop is strongly influenced by climatic variables such as precipitation and air temperature, directly influencing its adaptation to a specific location and climate. Objective. To determine the agroclimatic adaptability of the maize crop for different agricultural regions of the Mato Grosso State, Brazil. Methodology. This work was developed at the State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), on the dependences of the Centro Tecnológico de Geoprocessamento e Sensoriamento Remoto (CETEGEO-SR). A study was carried out on the adaptability of maize in the municipalities of Rondonópolis, Cuiabá, Tangará da Serra, Campo Novo do Parecis, Sorriso, and Sinop, in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. The climatic variables of precipitation and air temperature, calculated on ten-day periods, were used for each municipality as provided by the Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia (INMET). Based on the climatic requirements of the crop, the adaptability of maize during the year was classified. Results. The recommended sowing of the season maize in the municipalities is between the 30th and 33rd ten-day periods and for off-season maize it is between the 1st to 5th ten-day periods, without damage to the development, productivity, and crop harvest. All municipalities are considered suitable for growing maize with the average air temperature. Regarding precipitation, maize is classified as moderated by excess water for cultivation in the spring and summer periods. Implications. This study provides knowledge and technical recommendations on the use of water in the maize crop, as well as the correct sowing date and cultivation of this crop for the study region. Conclusion. The maize crop is suitable for cultivation in the municipalities studied, with recommended sowing between October to February.