[Numerical simulation on maize growth in a regular windbreak system in Huanghuaihai Plain]

The modified production ecological model SUCROS was used to simulate the growth process of summer corn with the protection of windbreaks in Huanghuaihai Plain, and the simulated result was compared with the field monitoring data. The effects of various physiological and ecological factors that affect the growth of the summer corn were analyzed. The modified SUCROS could simulate the growth process successfully. The leaf area index and organ biomass simulated by the model could be fairly consistent with the monitoring data when the effects of insect and disease pests and weeds were considered simultaneously. As compared with the simulated data in the monoculture field, the corn yield in the windbreak system was about 6.8% higher due to the improved microclimate. Based on the simulation of the relationships between sowing density, sowing date and seed production, the density standard for high yield in the region was 6.75-7.50 plants.m-2, even high as 9.00 plants.m-2 in the fields with sufficient soil nutrients and water supply. It is suggested that the optimal sowing period is from May 21 to June 5. Through simulating the influence of "cool summer" on the growth of summer corn in southern Huanghuaihai Plain, it was found that the growth period of corn would extend 3 to 4 days if the average air temperature during the growing period lowered by one degree. The "less radiation" and correspondent "lower temperature" were the direct reasons of yield reduction in "cool summer".