Native varieties (landraces) of maize are essential for food security, sustainable agriculture, and biodiversity, increasing resilience and supporting traditional agriculture. This study evaluated the performance of native maize varieties under two levels of organic fertilization at UFSJ, Sete Lagoas, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The experiment used pots with a soil and cattle manure ratio of 1:2, planted on 12/20/2023. Ten maize varieties (Cunha, Tunicata, Pipoca Roxa, SP 080, Catetinho, Jalisco 279, MG 102, Preto Chileno, Branco, Arco-Íris) were tested with fertilization levels of 50 and 100% (based on N-P-K requirements) in a 10 × 2 randomized factorial scheme, with five replications. The variables analyzed included ear weight (with and without straw), ear size (length, diameter), grain/ear count, grain weight/ear, 100 grain weight, and plant height. The results showed that 100% fertilization improved performance, increasing ear size by 20%, diameter by 10% and weight by 30%. SP 080, MG 102 and Arco-Íris had the tallest plants (294–321 cm). Jalisco, Branco and Tunicata stood out in grain-related metrics. Jalisco produced the heaviest ears and grains, followed by MG 102 and Branco. These varieties have demonstrated high production potential, highlighting their value for sustainable cultivation.