Alterations in plant architecture and physiology allow maize to sustain yield after early defoliation

Maize (Zea mays L.) responses to early defoliation are shaped by genotype-specific physiological and morphological traits, and understanding these responses is essential for improving both breeding strategies and agronomic management. We evaluated the effects of complete canopy defoliation at the V4 vegetative stage on shoot growth, root morphology, chlorophyll fluorescence, and yield stability in four maize genotypes. The dataset comprises individual experimental-unit measurements of growth traits, root characteristics, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, and yield components collected under defoliated and non-defoliated conditions. Early defoliation consistently reduced total leaf area, plant height, and root biomass, while increasing root tissue density and harvest index across genotypes. Despite these structural adjustments, key yield components, including grain yield, were largely maintained. Chlorophyll fluorescence measurements revealed clear genotype-specific physiological resp..., , # Alterations in plant architecture and physiology allow maize to sustain yield after early defoliation

Dataset DOI: [10.5061/dryad.z8w9ghxtc](https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.z8w9ghxtc)

## Description of the data and file structure

### Dataset: Genotype-Specific Responses of Maize to Early Defoliation

### Principal Investigator Contact Information

Name: Thiago Corrêa de Souza

Institution: Federal University of Alfenas

Email: [[e-mail]](mailto:[e-mail])

## Dataset Overview

This dataset documents genotype-specific physiological and morphological responses of maize (*Zea mays L*.) to early canopy defoliation. The data were generated to evaluate how complete defoliation at the V4 stage affects shoot growth, root morphology, chlorophyll fluorescence, and yield components across four maize genotypes grown under controlled conditions. The dataset includes raw, unprocessed measurements collected at the level of individual experimental units. Vari...,