Incorporating male sterility increases hybrid maize yield in low input African farming systems

Maize yields in sub-Saharan Africa remain suboptimal. This study describes a hybrid seed production technology that eliminates the need for detasseling, improving efficiency and seed quality. The resulting 50% non-pollen-producing (FNP) hybrids increase yields by approximately 200 kg/ha (10% at national average yield levels) across a range of environments and genetic backgrounds. This represents a significant yield increase achieved using a single gene technology in low-input smallholder farming conditions. Farmer preference for these hybrids suggests high adoption potential.

Sarah Collinson, Esnath Hamdziripi, Hugo De Groote, Michael Ndegwa, Jill E. Cairns, Marc Albertsen, Dickson Ligeyo, Kingstone Mashingaidze, Michael S. Olsen