MASHUK 172 is a mid-early three-line hybrid corn (Zea mays L.) characterized by high productivity and resistance to adverse conditions. Plants reach a height of 210-220 cm, with wide leaves and ears positioned at a height of 65-70 cm. The 1000-grain weight is approximately 280 g. The hybrid exhibits resistance to root lodging, stem breakage below the ear, stalk rot, and common smut, ensuring reliable cultivation in various regions, including Central, North Caucasus, Volga, Lower Volga, Ural, and Far Eastern.
Studies conducted in the Stavropol Krai during 2019–2021 showed that reducing plant spacing from 0.143 to 0.125 m² when increasing planting density from 70 to 80 thousand plants per hectare did not affect the vegetative period duration, which averages 109 days. Plant height remained stable, averaging 203 cm. With increased planting density, there was a slight increase in green mass yield — approximately 0.62 t/ha (1.8%), while grain yield remained virtually unchanged, at around 5.4 t/ha.
Hybrid yield depends on weather conditions during the growing season. Under conditions of insufficient rainfall during critical growth stages, grain yield decreased due to reduced plant spacing. The highest yield structure parameters, including ear length and weight, as well as number and weight of kernels, were recorded at larger plant spacing and optimal planting density of 70 thousand plants per hectare. Hybrid MASHUK 172 is suitable for cultivation in areas with adequate moisture and demonstrates stable performance under various agronomic regimes.
