A comprehensive evaluation of the growth performance of 26 silage maize genotypes using grey correlative degree analysis

The grey correlative degree analysis was applied to comprehensively evaluate the growth performance of 26 silage maize genotypes by seven characteristics. The 10 genotypes, including Zhongnongdaqingzhu 67, Jinling 18, Yayuqingzhu 79491, Jinling 17, Jinling 21, Qingzhu 772, Yayuqingzhu 29, Donglingbai, Jinling 37, Zhongbeiqingzhu 410, performed well, whereas the 3 genotypes had relatively low suitability in the Chifeng region. The order of weight index in the grey correlation analysis was height length＞ear leaf area＞biomass＞plant fresh weight＞plant dry weight＞ear fresh weight per plant fresh weight＞ear fresh weight. This study will provide the scientific evidence for introducing and extending silage maize in the Chifeng region, and even ecotone of agriculture and animal husbandry of Inner Mongolia.