Shading and waterlogging interactions exacerbate summer maize yield losses by reducing assimilate accumulation and remobilization processes

Persistent overcast rain was an essential limiting factor for summer maize production, of which immediate impact was the dual pressure of waterlogging and shading. However, the mechanism of independent and combined effects of waterlogging and shading induced maize yield losses are rarely studied, especially at different growth stages. Denghai 605 (DH605) was selected to be subjected shading, waterlogging, and their combined stress at the 3rd leaf stage (V3), the 6th leaf stage (V6), and tasseling stage (VT). Results showed that shading, waterlogging and their combination significantly limited the expansion of leaf area, and decreased leaf net photosynthetic rate () and net assimilation rate (NAR), thus reducing the crop growth rate (CGR) and biomass accumulation. At the same time, compared to control, the process of lignin synthesis was inhibited under stressed treatment, resulting in reduced stem mechanical strength and a poor development of the vascular system, of which change significantly reduced efficiency of assimilate remobilization to the ear and ultimately grain yield. The most significant effects of waterlogging and combined stresses on yield were occurred at V3 stage, followed by the V6 and VT stages. The most significant effects of shading were occurred at VT stage, followed by the V6 and V3 stages. Moreover, the compound stress exacerbated the damage brought about by a single stress. It is predicted that climate change will increase the frequency of abiotic stress assemblages, and the results of these findings provide some direction for further research on maize breeding in summer maize under continuous rainy conditions in the future.