Assuming that drought affects corn seed performance, such conditions were simulated in this study in order to examine their effects on seedling geminability and length in several corn genotypes. The study showed that the tested seeds tolerated the stress conditions up to a certain point. The studied genotypes differed in level of resistance to the stress conditions. Salt concentrations were determined, which were capable of negatively affecting seed germinability and seedling growth.

Assuming that drought affects corn seed performance, such conditions were simulated in this study in order to examine their effects on seedling geminability and length in several corn genotypes. The study showed that the tested seeds tolerated the stress conditions up to a certain point. The studied genotypes differed in level of resistance to the stress conditions. Salt concentrations were determined, which were capable of negatively affecting seed germinability and seedling growth.

The mechanism of leaf growth inhibition was investigated in eight maize genotypes differing in drought resistance and maturity groups. In controlled conditions the effects of drought, nitrogen deficiency, pH and ABA on leaf growth were investigated. In soil drying experiment measurements of water potential and its components and leaf growth and development parameters were carried out.

The effect of drought on cell-wall peroxidase activity (bulk and spatial) was observed parallel with leaf growth parameters (leaf elongation rate - LER and segmental elongation rate - SER) in the third leaf of six maize genotypes differing in maturity grouping and drought resistance.