An experiment utilizing a split-plot design was done to ascertain the optimal plant population and weed management strategies for enhancing yield, net income, and energy efficiency in high-density rainfed cotton cultivation. The primary plot treatments comprised three spacing configurations: 100x10 cm, 150x50x10 cm, and 175x50x10 cm. Six weed management approaches were evaluated as subplot treatments, with each treatment replicated three times throughout the 2023-24 rabi season. These practices included power weeding on 20 and 45 days after sowing (DAS), intercropping with black gram, hand weeding on 20 and 45 DAS, herbicide application of Metolachlor (pre-emergence) on 5 DAS, and a combination of Pyrithiobac sodium plus Quizalofop ethyl (post-emergence) on 20 DAS, along with weedy check and weed-free check. The 100 x 10 cm spacing combined with power weeding proved superior, achieving higher yield parameters, greater yield, increased income (Rs. 67238/ha), a benefit-cost ratio of 2.27, energy productivity of 0.38 Kg/MJ, net energy productivity of 30334 MJ/ha, and an energy use efficiency of 4.0 in high-density planting. The narrow-row spacing (100x10 cm) with power weeding also optimized plant population and enhanced per-plant productivity. This configuration also supported proper soil tilling and aeration, enabling a higher uptake of inputs with minimum energy expenditure for weeding, leading to improved overall performance.
Read full abstract