Effect of harvesting schedules on grain yield and quality of scented rice varieties

摘要

Field experiment was conducted to study the effect of harvesting schedules on grain yield, grain quality and net returns of the scented rice varieties, Pusa basmati-1 (semi dwarf) and Taroari basmati (tall). Pusa basmati-1 recorded significantly higher grain yield (25.26 percent) than that of Taroari basmati (2.89 ha~(-1)). Among different schedules of harvesting, maximum grain yield 0.68 tha~(-1)) was recorded under 36 days after 50 percent flowering. Pusa basmati-1 recorded maximum net returns ofRs. 11,600 ha~(-1) with a B:C ratio of 1.79. Among harvesting schedules, highest net return of Rs. 11,900 ha~(-1) with a B:C ratio of 1.83 was recorded by harvesting of crop at 36 days after 50 percent flowering. Pusa basmati-1 has distinct yield advantage over Taroari basmati. Among different quality traits, Pusa basmati-1 recorded maximum values of head rice recovery, kernel length after cooking and water uptake, while the other quality traits were similar to Taroari basmati. Harvesting at 36 days after 50 percent flowering also recorded maximum values for most of the quality traits. Early harvesting at 27 to 30 days recorded lower values for all quality parameters, while late harvesting at 42 days showing a reduction in grain and milling quality traits. Considering both grain and quality features, harvesting scented varieties around 36 days after 50 percent flowering appears to be appropriate as well as remunerative practice and may be recommended for the Deccan Plateau Region of Andhara Pradesh.