Production potential and economics of different sowing dates for babycorn (Zea mays) production under mid-hill conditions of North-western Himalayas

A field experiment was conducted during 1998, 1999 and 2000 at Almora, to find out production potential and economics of different sowing dates for babycorn (Zea mays L.) production. The highest babycorn yield (1,688 kg/ha) net return (Rs 35, 249/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (2.41) were recorded under 2 May sowing, followed by 17 April sowing, with corresponding values 1, 679 kg/ha, Rs 34,753/ha and 2.39 respectively. Crop sown in August was not found remunerative. The highest green fodder yield (377 q/ha) was recorded on 1 June sowing which, however, was at par with sowing done during mid-April to May, but significantly more than all other sowing dates. Maximum days to babycorn initiation (63 days) and harvest duration (13 days) were recorded with 2 April sowing which decreased significantly in subsequent sowing dates. Highest babycorn/plant (2.1) was recorded on 17 April and 2 May sowings which, however, was at par with 2 April sowing but significantly more than all other sowing dates.