Study of Pollen Traits, Production, and Artificial Pollination Methods in Zea mays L.

The optimization of artificial pollination is crucial in breeding programs for allogamous plants. In maize, achieving a balance between the labor-intensive nature of controlled pollinations and the need for large-scale production of hybrid seeds, along with considerations of germinability and pollen production, determines the success of genetic improvement programs. Breeding programs in maize have resulted in a reduction in the number of tassel branches to increase light interception and plant density in production fields. However, despite this genetic improvement, the decreased pollen production per plant has raised critical concerns regarding pollination and subsequent ear filling, especially under adverse environmental conditions. The aim of this work was the analysis of factors that can contribute to increasing the efficiency of controlled pollination in maize. The data obtained showed that pollen diameter, flavonoid, and phenolic acid content do not influence the percentage of germination and therefore the efficiency of pollination. The quantity of pollen is a central factor in ensuring the efficiency of controlled pollinations, and the data obtained by comparing traditional varieties with modern hybrids of maize showed that an increase in pollen production is determined by the increase in branching of the male inflorescence. Furthermore, we propose the use of a “smart” pollination method to make this step in maize breeding programs easier and faster.