Hybrids that are well-adapted to low plant populations generally have a robust plant type, sturdy stalks and big, hanging leaves. Commonly these hybrids correspondingly have a larger root mass. When these attributes are coupled with strong prolificacy, one would expect that this type of hybrid would be better adapted to varying climatic conditions such as those experienced in the western part of the maize production area. These hybrids generally perform better under drought stress situations since lower plant populations enable some buffering of water use during dry spells They can, however, compensate under good production conditions by producing a second ear.