In India Maize is grown over an area of 5.7 million hectares with total production of about 6 million tons. Though the maximum acreage and the productivity is in Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka gives the highest average yield per hectare (2995 kg) followed by Himachal Pradesh (1672 kg). The average maize yield in India is only 1043 kg per hectare which is much lower than in most of the maize growing countries of the world.

Maize is a warm weather plant. It grows from the sea level to 3000 meter altitudes. It can be grown throughout the year and under diverse conditions. Maize requires considerable moisture and warmth from germination to flowering. The most suitable temperature for germination is 21 degree centigrade and for growth 32 degree centigrade. 50-75 centimeter of well distributed rain is conducive to proper growth.

For Maize Kharif (monsoon) season is the main growing season in north India. In the south the best time is between April and October.

Maize is best adapted to well drained sandy loam and silty loam soils. It thrives on heavy clays, especially low lands. It can be grown successfully in soils with pH ranging from 5.5-7.5.