Among the given options, minimum tillage is the most suitable method for maize cultivation.
Maize is a crop that requires a well-aerated soil, which can be achieved through tillage. However, excessive tillage can result in soil erosion, loss of organic matter, and soil compaction, which can be harmful to the growth of maize.
Minimum tillage involves loosening the soil only in the planting rows, leaving the rest of the field undisturbed. This method helps to maintain soil structure and reduce erosion, while still providing the necessary soil aeration for maize growth. Additionally, minimum tillage can help to conserve soil moisture and reduce labor and fuel costs.
Zero tillage, on the other hand, involves no tillage at all, which may not be ideal for maize cultivation as it can result in weed infestation and poor soil aeration. Maximum tillage, which involves extensive soil cultivation, can result in soil degradation and increased erosion. Contour ridges, which involve shaping the soil into ridges to control erosion, may not be necessary for all maize fields and can be more appropriate for areas with high rainfall and steep slopes.