Boosting Maize Yield in China: Optimizing Planting Density for Sustainable Intensification and Climate Adaptation

Population growth and economic development in China have increased the demand for food and animal feed, and the limitation in available cropping area poses the challenge of increasing and stabilizing maize (Zea mays L.) yield under climate change. From the perspective of global maize production, increasing planting density is a vital avenue to increase production, land use efficiency and food security for sustainable intensification in major maize area in China. Based on field data, literature data and meteorological data, we combined field trials and data-driven analysis to identify yield improvements with the optimized planting density across China. At the same time, we explored maize yield responses to climatic factors, including temperature and vapor pressure deficit (VPD) under denser planting. The study aims to provide workable theoretical and technical supports for further maize yield improvement, sustain food security and climate adaption.