Effect of different spacings and nitrogen levels on seed yield and quality of hybrid castor (Ricinus communis L.).

摘要

To study the effect of different spacings and nitrogen levels on seed yield and quality of hybrid castor cv. GCH-5, a field experiment was conducted during kharif-rabi seasons of 2002-03, 2003-04 and 2004-05 on sandy loam soil at the College of Agriculture, Agronomy Farm, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, India. The treatments comprised: four spacings (120x60 cm, 120x75 cm, 150x60 cm and 150x75 cm) and four nitrogen levels (60, 80, 100 and 120 kg N/ha). Significantly higher seed yield of castor (GCH-5) 12.6 or 14.7% was recorded under wider spacing 150x60 cm or 150x75 cm over both the narrow spacings. A similar trend was also obtained in oil content and oil yield. Maximum net returns were realized (Rs. 25 675/ha) under 150x75 cm spacing followed by 150x60 cm spacing. The effects of nitrogen were found non-significant on seed yield, oil content as well as on oil yield. Thus, the application of nitrogen at 60 kg/ha and 150x75 cm spacing were found economical under irrigated conditions of middle Gujarat.