The breeding programme is manned by two research officers. Current breeding objectives include high grain yielding ability under stress and optimum growing condition, early to medium maturity, resistance to foliar diseases (grey leaf spot, maize streak virus and turcium leaf blight) and ear rots (Diplodia, Fusarium, Aspergillus), insect resistance (stem borers, maize weevil and large grain borer), drought and low nitrogen tolerance, low soil pH and high nutritional quality (QPM). The breeding programme collaborates with CIMMYT in some of its research projects.
The Zimbabwe Maize Variety Catalogue developed by the program
Popular maize (OPVs) varieties released by the institute include:
a) ZM309
Early maturing (125-130 days), white, semi-flint OPV
- An Excellent yielder (5-7t/ha) for a early maturing variety
- Excellent tolerance to drought and low soil fertility stress
- Moderate to good tolerance to MSV, GLS, Northern Leaf Blight Common Rust and ear rots
- Good standability and excellent husk cover
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b) ZM401
- Early maturing (125-135days), white, semi-dent OPV
- Good yielder (5-7t/ha) with a good looking long cob
- Excellent tolerance to drought and low soil fertility stress
- Good tolerance to MSV, GLS, Northern Leaf Blight and Common Rust