Evaluation of Targeted Yield Precision Model for Soybean and Toria Crops on Farmers' Fields under Sub-Humid, Sub-Tropical, Northwestern Himalayas

Abstract

Twenty seven on farm trials were conducted on soybean (Glycine max L.) and toria (Brassica campestris L. ssp oleifera) on farmers' fields during 2003–2006 to verify targeted yield precision models for achieving specific yield targets in the sub-humid, sub-tropical, northwestern Himalayas. Experimental results revealed that grain yield, as well as additional yield gains and additional net profits over the farmers' practice, were higher in targeted yield precision modeled treatments compared to conventional fertilizer recommendations. The cost ratio was also found to be higher (>10) in each targeted yield-led treatment in both of the oilseeds compared to other fertilizer recommendation approaches. The targeted yield precision model for fertilizer recommendations were found to be more precise over other conventional approaches to achieve targeted yields besides higher profits. Studies further revealed that targeted yield approach could work effectively up to 1.5 and 2.0 t ha−1 of targeted yields in soybean and toria crops, respectively, under the sub-humid, sub-tropical, northwestern Himalayas.