In the decade period 1998-2007 maize harvested area in Croatia was, depending on year, from 288380 ha to 407272 ha while annual yield variation was in range from 3.93 t/ha to 6.92 t/ha. The region eastern Croatia represents 22 % of the state territory, it participating in maize harvested area near to 50 % and maize yield in this region is near to 20% higher compared to the state level. Mean air-temperature in Osijek for May-August period (the decade 1998-2007) was 20.7 o C  or for 1.5 o C higher compared to 30-year (1961-1990) mean. At the same time, precipitation was for 9% higher. Depending on year, precipitation in May-Aug. period were in range from 104 mm to 567 mm and air-temperatures from 19.1 o C to 22.5 o C or from  –61% to +110% (precipitation) and from -2 % to +17% (air-temperature) deviation from 30-year means. The growing seasons 2000, 2003 and 2007 were less favourable for maize because of drought and the higher air-temperatures. For example, in the period May-August precipitation in Osijek were for 61 % (2000), 39 % (2003) and 40 % (2007) lower (2003) in comparison with 30-year mean. At the same time, air-temperatures were for 2.3 o C, (2000 and 2007) and for 3.2 o C (2003) higher. Under these conditions, maize yields in the region were lower for 28% (2000), 25% (2003) and 18% (2007) compared to the decade mean (6.01 t/ha).

precipitation; air-temperature; yield; maize; Croatia

Presentation: oral