The activity of the maize experimental unit

Over the past sixty years, varietal breeding programs have increased maize yields, and considerable progress has been made, particularly in the plant's life cycle and architecture. However, can this type of crop cope with global changes ? How can we develop varieties that meet the needs of the industry while respecting the environment ?

Following the 1930 International Maize Congress, and at the request of farmers, public policy makers, and scientists, the Saint Martin de Hinx Maize Experimental Unit was established as a station dedicated to maize genetics.

The maize Experimental Unit focuses primarily on the evaluation of plant material in the field. Bringing together expertise in phenology, genetics, plant material description, phenotyping, maize cultivation, seed production, and farm management, the unit's team has the opportunity to work on the complete life cycle of maize.

First and foremost, the unit's mission is to safeguard the maize genetic heritage. Labeled a 'Biological Resource Center' for maize lines, the unit propagates, conserves, and distributes INRAE ​​collections, as well as others from European partners.

Also, and in the context of climate change, the unit provides research support through scientific experiments: early flowering dates, integration of exotic drought-tolerant material. The experiments conducted can also be oriented toward new agroecological practices : promoting soil biodiversity, reducing nitrogen fertilizers, sustainable irrigation, and strategies for resistance to borer insects.

The unit is the only site in France responsible for expertise in the varietal control of maize parents for the seed sector, and seed certification, whether it be late material for studies by the Variety and Seed Study and Control Group, or for all parents used in France by the interprofessional seed and plant organization.

Finally, the unit participates in the teaching and popularization of science through numerous visits to the site for high school students from agricultural vocational establishments, BTS level interns, and doctoral students for their field experimentation needs.