MECHANIZED DETASSELING TECHNOLOGY FOR CORN SEED PRODUCTION: GLOBAL PROGRESS, KEY CHALLENGES, AND OPTIMIZATION STRATEGIES
Detasseling the female parent plants is a critical operation in hybrid corn seed production. This article systematically reviews global developments in mechanized detasseling technology for corn seed production. First, it provides an in-depth analysis of two key technologies supporting mechanized detasseling: the biomechanical characteristics of corn tassels and intelligent tassel-detection technologies based on machine vision and photoelectric sensing. Second, the current development of mechanized detasseling equipment is reviewed, and the technical parameters and field performance of representative domestic and international machines are compared in detail. The comparison identifies four major constraints limiting the wider adoption of this technology in China: an insufficient single-pass detasseling rate, poor coordination between machinery and agronomic practices, a high crop-damage rate, and low acceptance among farmers. Finally, three targeted optimization strategies are proposed: developing intelligent and precision detasseling equipment, promoting closer integration of agricultural machinery and agronomy, and strengthening field demonstration and extension activities. This review aims to provide a theoretical basis and practical reference for improving mechanized detasseling processes and supporting the development of more effective detasseling equipment.