EFFECT OF HYDRO GEL AND VERMICOMPOST ON CORN PRODUCTION

The increasing of frequency and intensity of drought are the most critical factor in the agricultural production in rainfall areas. Evaluate different doses of hydrogel and vermicompost as soil moisture retainers and its impact on photosynthesis and the production of maize (Zea mays L.) was the objective in this study, in Bermejillo, Durango. Randomized block design in a split plot arrangement was used. Hydrogel doses of 0, 12.5 and 25 kg ha(-1) were applied in main plots, and doses of vermicompost of 0 and 20 t ha(-1) were applied in subplots. Applying 12.5 and 25 kg ha(-1) of hydrogel favored the growth and productivity of corn, it increasing the average 31.5 % the moisture content of the soil, in relation to the control. Grain yield increased 44.7% when applied 25 kg ha(-1) of hydrogel to produce 19.1 t ha(-1) compared to 13.2 t ha-1 produced by the control. This was associated with better ear size and higher rates of photosynthesis and biomass production. Vermicompost did not influence the growth and yield of corn.