Partial return calculator to compare monocrop, relay‐intercrop, and double crop production systems

Abstract

AbstractTo improve profitability, farmers are interested in relay intercrop (RI; planting a second crop prior to harvest of the first crop) and double crop (DC; planting a second crop after harvest of the first crop) systems. Economic comparisons can be challenging due to fluctuations in expenses and crop prices. To compare production systems, an Excel‐based partial return calculator was developed. The calculator includes default values for crop yields, expenses, and prices using current information. Additionally, practitioners have the option to enter and use their own values. The objectives of this management guide are to: (a) provide an overview of the calculator; (b) compare partial return of monocrop (MC), RI, and DC production systems; and (c) provide a mechanism for practitioners to use their own values to compare production systems. The partial return calculator compares six production systems, including winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) only, wheat + straw harvest, soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] only, wheat (grown in 15‐inch row width) with soybean as a RI, wheat with soybean as a DC, and wheat + straw harvest with soybean as a DC. Partial return for each production system was calculated by subtracting costs (including economic value of P2O5 and K2O removed in harvested portions) from gross return. Using default values, wheat followed by DC soybean and straw harvest resulted in the highest partial return while wheat grown as a MC resulted in the lowest return. Although default values provide a comparison, practitioners should enter their own values to compare production systems.