Evaluation of Maize Varieties at Seedling Stage under Drought Stress Based on Morpho-physiological and Biochemical Attributes

A hydroponic pot experiment was driven to investigate the improvement of drought tolerance in six maize varieties (e.g. Gold Star, BHM 14, Paloan, Bharti 981, BHM 9, Pioneer) based on morpho-physiological and biochemical characteristics. Six Maize varieties were used as test crops and the experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design (RCBD) with three replications. Drought stress was imposed 14 days after sowing by using the PEG solution. The results revealed that BHM 14 possessed the longest root length (69.33 cm), higher shoot length (42.67 cm), longest total plant height (112.00 cm), highest fresh root weight (3.32 g), high leaf greenness found in BHM 14 measured by SPAD meter in both top and lower leaves, high amount of proline whereas, Paloan produced shortest total plant height (78.50 cm), lowest fresh root weight (1.52 g), lowest proline after 42 days of sowing under stress condition. The maximal photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm) appeared to measure photosynthesis whereas Pioneer was comparatively higher in stress conditions. The fresh weight of root and shoot was significantly least affected in stress conditions, whereas BHM 14 performed better in stress conditions. On the other hand, varieties had a significant difference in total dry matter of control condition and stress condition. Therefore, it is suggested that BHM 14 showed maximum drought tolerance in respect of growth and morpho-physiological changes under drought conditions.