MODEL FOR ESTIMATING LEAF AREA INDEX OF THE MAIZE CROP

This study proposes a model for estimating leaf area index of the maize crop, as a function of relative crop development and plant population. Based on the data obtained by Lima (1995) and Basanta (1999), the proposed model was made considering the temporal variation of daily air temperature during the crop cycle, using plant population from 40,000 to 65,000 plants.ha-1. The proposed model was evaluated by regression analysis using two criteria: (i) parameters range (must not be equal to zero using confidence interval of 95%), and (ii) variance analysis (F Test). The results showed a satisfactory adjust of the model to the observed values and that it can be used in different crop conditions.