Adjusting planting time using water balance and rainfall prediction approaches

Abstract

The appropriate planting time is an alternative to avoid loss yield and increase the production of food crops. The objectives of this study were to analyze water balance for adjusting the proper planting time was carried out in three locations with different rainfall patterns and groundwater capacities. The analysis was performed using the water balance approach. Input data used are rainfall prediction potential evapotranspiration and groundwater storage capacity. The results showed that the water balance analysis in Bandar Sidoras Irrigation Area with an equatorial rainfall pattern has a water surplus period of 2 to 3 months longer than the Mrican Kanan and Gadungan Lambuk Irrigation Area, which have a monsoon rainfall pattern. However, the potential cropping pattern applied in each Irrigation Area is the same, Rice-Rice-Maize/Soybean, with the first planting season in Gadungan Lambuk in earlier of May to August. In comparison, the first planting season in the other two irrigation areas is from November to February. The water balance and rainfall prediction approaches are appropriate for determining optimal growth and development of food crops.