Performance of early- and intermediate-maturing maize hybrids for grain yield and secondary traits under multiple stress environments.

INTRODUCTION: Maize productivity in Southern Africa remains below global averages due to multiple stress factor. METHODS: This study evaluated 87 early-and intermediate-maturing maize hybrids across 13 environments (stress and non-stress) using an alpha lattie design. RESULTS: Significant variation (P<0.05) was observed. Grain yield ranged from 1.41 to 7.43 t ha-1 across stress conditions. Ears per plant and ear height re key contributors to yield. DISCUSSIONS: Multivariate analysis identified 20 high-perofimng, stable hybrids suitable for multi-environment testing.