Quantifying contributions of leaf area and longevity to leaf area duration under increased planting density and nitrogen input regimens during maize yield improvement

Leaf area and its longevity are the key factors driving dry matter accumulation and yield formation in maize ( Zea mays. L). Both factors are influenced by cultivation management measures. The objective of this study was to utilize a quantitative framework to better understand the contribution of leaf area and longevity to leaf area duration (LAD) and yield in maize plants at varying plant densities and nitrogen application rates. A two-year field experiment was conducted using a factorial combination of two plant densities and four nitrogen levels. Leaf area and longevity were measured at each leaf position in two different maize cultivars. We calculated the LAD at the single-leaf, individual-plant, and whole-population scales and quantitatively analyzed the contribution of leaf area and longevity to LAD. The results showed that in the upper leaves, leaf area had a larger proportional contribution to LAD (54.1–95.7%), whereas in the lower leaves, leaf longevity contributed more to LAD (51.8–74.1%). Both were greatly affected by variations in plant density and nitrogen application. At the individual-plant scale, the proportional contribution of leaf area to LAD (57.3%) was similar to that of leaf longevity (57.2%); at the whole-population scale, leaf area accounted for a larger contribution to LAD (87.0%). The increase in LAD (which integrating increases in leaf area and longevity) was positively associated with an increase in dry matter at maturity and grain yield. Yield gain was achieved by reasonable increases in density and nitrogen fertilizer application to promote LAD. The quantitative evaluation of leaf area and longevity described in this study provides a theoretical basis for increasing maize yield under increased plant density and nitrogen input conditions. • Density and nitrogen affect upper leaves’ area and lower longevity of canopy. • Leaf area and longevity contribute equally to LAD variations at individual scale. • Contribution of leaf area to LAD variation was greater at population scale. • Nitrogen application offset the negative effects of increasing plant density partly.