Based on our perfect knowledge of growing conditions in arid and semi-arid areas and on different field trials conducted over the years, we have selected varieties which are perfectly adapted to the technical and economical needs of farmers.

• For grain production, the choice of a variety relies on a balance between water requirements (related to yield potential) and water availability. We recommend the use of:
  |- medium-late varieties Panama and Odeon (also suitable for silage production),
  |- late variety Net,
  |- very late varieties Nikaïa and Mas 61 which are also both suitable for forage production.
• For silage production, other than water needs considerations, forage quality should also be a choice factor. If dairy production is important, we can supply productive varieties with outstanding feeding values, such as:
  |- medium-late varietiy Odeon,
  |- very late varieties Nikaïa and Giubileo,
  |- Calcio or Mas 74.G which are both ultra late varieties.

These varieties have all obtained excellent results, especially in Saudi Arabia.

Over the last 50 years, the progress made in corn productivity has been absolutely amazing, far greater than for any other plant. Today, the yield potential of each variety is not even comparable to that obtained 20 years ago, mainly because of genetical progress (Barrière, 2001). Over the same period of time, water efficiency has not been increased. Consequently, productivity improvements have led to higher water requirements (around 50% more according to different research papers).

In arid areas, temperature and sunshine conditions could allow the production of varieties with very high yield potential (late maturity - for grain production); but the necessary water resources may not be available or have proven too expensive and the potential yield may never be reached. The choice of a variety then relies on a balance between water requirements (related to yield potential) and water availability.