Abstract:Based on the daily meteorological observation data and maize observation data of 13 agrometeorological experimental stations from 2010 to 2017, the canopy rainfall interception and its variation of main maize production areas in China are studied by using the rainfall interception model for maize. The results show that under different climatic conditions and growth conditions, the interception of maize canopy is quite different. The average interception is 4.3-23.5 mm. When the precipitation from jointing to matur-ity is less than 70 mm, the interception is less than 8 mm. With the increase of precipitation, the interception is first affected by both precipitation and maximum leaf area index (LAImax) and then becomes more sensitive to LAImax. The average interception rate is 1.9%-11.6%, and the interception rate is relatively stable in Huang-Huai-Hai summer maize planting area. The interception rate exceedes 10% in areas with precipitation less than 120 mm in growing season. Furthermore, the average interception rate range is given according to the classification of main maize production area and climatic dryness and wetness. The canopy interception and interception rate in different areas can be estimated according to precipitation from joining to maturity, LAImax and the rule of interception change. The interception research based on the actual growth and natural rainfall provides scientific basis for effective precipitation assessment, drought index correction, and farmland water cycle, and so on.