Status and Perspectives of Organic Maize Production in Serbia

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L., Poaceae family) is the most domesticated plant species in the world. At the global level, the growing trend of expanding the area under organic plant production is evident. The use of genetically modified hybrids is prohibited in organic production. One of main prerequisites for the successful organic maize production is the use of hybrids that are well adapted to local conditions and tolerant of most abiotic and biotic stress factors. Among the most widely grown are NS 3014, NS 4015, NS 5043, NS 540, NS 6010, NS 6030, NS 640 and NS 7020, which belong to different FAO maturity groups and are well adapted to the agro-ecological conditions of the country. In Serbia, organic crop production takes place on an area of 25035.11 ha, while cereal production is in second place with an area of 3838.54 ha. Considering the importance of maize as a field crop and the place it occupies among types of cereals, the goal of this paper was to point out the importance and state of certified organic maize production. Among all grain types, wheat occupies the largest area under organic plant production (1128.77 ha), while oats (636.4 ha) are in second place, and maize occupies the third position with a total of 591.18 ha (maize for silage occupies an additional 303.98 ha). As for the regional distribution, largest areas are represented in area of Vojvodina (384.65 ha) and slightly less in the region of Šumadija and Western Serbia (160.58 ha). There is a growing trend in the demand for organic corn around the world. Considering the needs of the market, maize organic production in Serbia is small, especially in comparison with the areas under conventional production. Organic production is Serbia’s export opportunity.