Temporal–Spatial Patterns of the Water Deficit in the Main Maize-Cropping Regions of China
Understanding the imbalance between precipitation and crop-water requirements (water deficits) is vital for adaptive water management and ensuring food security. This study examines the water deficits in China’s three main maize-cropping regions—the Northern Spring Maize Region (NS), the Huanghuaiha...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-03-01
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| Series: | Agronomy |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4395/15/3/728 |
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| Summary: | Understanding the imbalance between precipitation and crop-water requirements (water deficits) is vital for adaptive water management and ensuring food security. This study examines the water deficits in China’s three main maize-cropping regions—the Northern Spring Maize Region (NS), the Huanghuaihai Summer Maize Region (HS), and the Southwest Mountain Maize Region (SWM). Using meteorological and crop data from 1981 to 2017, effective precipitation, water requirements, and water deficit rates are calculated. The results show that the average water deficit rate across all regions was 33%, with only 15.4% of precipitation meeting maize-water needs. NS had the highest deficits, especially during the jointing–tasseling stage (average: 54%), while HS had the lowest deficits, with sufficient precipitation at 54% of stations. In drought years, water deficits were significant across all regions, with NS experiencing the most severe challenges (average: 63%). Trends indicate declining effective precipitation in NS and SWM, while water requirements in NS have increased. These findings reveal critical regional disparities in the maize-water supply–demand balance and emphasize the need for targeted water management strategies to enhance the resilience of maize production to climate change. |
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| ISSN: | 2073-4395 |