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Increasing delays in the onset of the rainy season and extended dry spells in the Nigerian savannas are complicating the determination of optimal planting dates for rain-fed crops, which increases risks for farmers. This study evaluated the impact of planting dates on soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] performance to identify optimal planting dates for different soybean varieties in two agroecological zones (AEZs) of Nigeria. The study involved six planting dates (15 June, 22 June, 29 June, 6 July, 13 July, and 20 July) and three soybean varieties (TGX-1835-10E, TGX-1951-3F, TGX-1904-6F). Results showed significant differences in growth and yield parameters based on location, variety, and planting date. In the Sudan savanna (SS), AEZ at BUK-Kano, optimal yields (>1500 kg ha−1) were achieved when planting TGX-1835-10E and TGX-1951-3F from 15 to 29 June and TGX-1904-6F on 15 June. Planting beyond 29 June reduces yields by 12–55% for TGX-1835-10E and 27–63% for TGX-1951-3F. For TGX-1904-6F, planting after 15 June reduces yields by 27–90%. In the Northern Guinea savanna (NGS) AEZ at Zaria, optimal yields (>1500 kg ha−1) were obtained when planting TGX-1835-10E and TGX-1951-3F from 15 June to 6 July, and TGX-1904-6F between 15 to 29 June. Delaying planting beyond these dates significantly reduced yields by 18–31% for TGX-1835-10E and 12–20% for TGX-1951-3F and 10–41% for TGX-1904-6F. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on planting dates is crucial for modeling crop development, analyzing crop yield, and evaluating the effectiveness of policy-driven planting windows. Despite their high importance, field-level planting date datasets are scarce. Satellite remote sensing provides accurate and cost-effective solutions for detecting crop phenology from moderate to high resolutions, but remote sensing-based crop planting date detection is rare. Here, we aimed to generate field-level crop planting date maps by taking advantage of satellite remote sensing-derived phenological metrics and proposed a two-step framework to predict crop planting dates from these metrics using required growing degree dates (RGDD) as a bridge. Specifically, we modeled RGDD from the planting date to the spring inflection date (derived from phenological metrics) and then predicted the crop planting dates based on phenological metrics, RGDD, and environmental variables. The ∼3-day and 30-m Harmonized Landsat and Sentinel-2 (HLS) products were used to derive crop phenological metrics for corn and soybean fields in the U.S. Midwest from 2016 to 2021, and the ground truth of field-level planting dates from USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) reports were used for the development and validation of our proposed two-step framework. The results indicated that our framework could accurately predict field-level planting dates from HLS-derived phenological metrics, capturing 77 % field-level variations for corn (mean absolute error, MAE=4.6 days) and 71 % for soybean (MAE=5.4 days). We also evaluated the predicted planting dates with USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) state-level crop progress reports, achieving strong consistency with median planting dates for corn (R2=0.90, MAE=2.7 days) and soybeans (R2=0.87, MAE=2.5 days). The model's performance degraded slightly when predicting planting dates for fields with irrigation (MAE=5.4 days for corn, MAE=6.1 days for soybean) and cover cropping (MAE=5.4 days for corn, MAE=5.6 days for soybean). The USDA RMA Common Crop Insurance Policy (CCIP) provides county- or sub-county-level crop planting windows, which drive producers' decisions on when to plant. Within the CCIP-driven planting windows, higher prediction accuracies were achieved (MAE for corn: 4.5 days, soybean: 5.2 days). Our proposed two-step framework (phenological metrics-RGDD-planting dates) also outperformed the traditional one-step model (phenological metrics-planting dates). The proposed framework can be beneficial for deriving planting dates from current and future phenological products and contribute to studies related to planting dates such as the analysis of yield gaps, management practices, and government policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Optimum planting date and appropriate fertilizer module are essential facets of chrysanthemum cultivation, to enhance quality yield, and improve soil health. A field-based study was undertaken over multiple growing seasons in 2022 and 2023, where six different planting dates, viz., P1:June 15, P2:June 30, P3:July 15, P4:July 30, P5:August 15 and P6:August 30 and two fertilizer modules, FM1:Jeevamrit @ 30 ml plant−1 and FM2:NPK @ 30 g m−2 were systematically examined using a Randomized Block Design (factorial), replicated thrice. Results P6 planting resulted in early bud formation (44.03 days) and harvesting stage (90.78 days). Maximum plant height (79.44 cm), plant spread (34.04 cm), cut stem length (68.40 cm), flower diameter (7.83 cm), stem strength (19.38˚), vase life (14.90 days), flowering duration (24.08 days), available soil N (314 kg ha−1), available P (37 kg ha−1), available K (347 kg ha−1), bacterial count (124.87 × 107 cfu g−1 soil), actinomycetes count (60.72 × 102 cfu g−1 soil), fungal count (30.95 × 102 cfu g−1 soil), microbial biomass (48.79 µg g−1 soil), dehydrogenase enzyme (3.64 mg TPF h−1 g−1 soil) and phosphatase enzyme (23.79 mol PNP h−1 g−1 soil) was recorded in P1 planting. Among the fertilization module, minimum days to bud formation (74.94 days) and days to reach the harvesting stage (120.95 days) were recorded with the application of NPK @30 g m−2. However, maximum plant height (60.62 cm), plant spread (23.10 cm), number of cut stems m−2 (43.88), cut stem length (51.34 cm), flower diameter (6.92 cm), stem strength (21.24˚), flowering duration (21.75 days), available soil N (317 kg ha−1), available P (37 kg ha−1) and available K (349 kg ha−1) were also recorded with the application of NPK @300 kg ha−1. Maximum vase life (13.87 days), OC (1.13%), bacterial count (131.65 × 107 cfu g−1 soil), actinomycetes count (60.89 × 102 cfu g−1 soil), fungal count (31.11 × 102 cfu g−1 soil), microbial biomass (51.27 µg g−1 soil), dehydrogenase enzyme (3.77 mg TPF h−1 g−1 soil) and phosphatase enzyme (21.72 mol PNP h−1 g−1 soil) were observed with the application of Jeevamrit @ 30 ml plant−1. Conclusion Early planting (P1) and inorganic fertilization (NPK @ 30 g m−2) resulted in improved yield and soil macronutrient content. The soil microbial population and enzymatic activity were improved with the jeevamrit application. This approach highlights the potential for improved yield and soil health in chrysanthemum cultivation, promoting a more eco-friendly and economically viable agricultural model.

Effect of sowing dates, climatic variables on major insect pests population, and host plant resistance with special reference to pod borer Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) in pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) ecosystem was studied on two cultivars namely, ICPL 87 and ICPL 88039. The insect pest population on two cultivars differed significantly across sowing dates. ICPL 87 was most vulnerable to insect pests as it suffered more damage by the pod borer H. armigera, pod sucking bugs (Clavigralla tomentosicollis Stal.) than ICPL 88039. The maximum leaf/pod feeding insect population was recorded on first sowing and then gradually decline for the rest of the plantings. Maximum H. armigera egg population exhibited 21.10 on ICPL 87 in first sowing and at least 1.23 on ICPL 88039 in sixth sowing. Web forming insect pests Maruca virata (3.95) and leaf webber (4.66) weremaximum recorded on ICPL 88039 in second and first planting respectively. The leaf feeding beetle was recorded highest 6.29(ICPL 87) in the third planting. Amid two cultivars maximum insect-pests population was recorded on ICPL 87 when compared to ICPL 88039 except web forming insect Maruca and leaf webber due to its indeterminate genotypic character of ICPL 88039. Between the two genotypes, the sucking pests more preferred to ICPL 87 when compared ICPL 88039. Maximum jassids were recorded 12.76 and 8.38 (ICPL 87) in fourth sowing and third sowing respectively. It was observed that highest spider population recorded 2.23(ICPL 88039) in first and second sowing. Ladybird beetle Coccinella transvasalis population recorded a maximum 8.52 (ICPL 87). The leaf webber (r= 0.449**) and pod bug (r= 0.421**) showed a highly significant positive correlation with maximum temperature and H. armigera larvae population exhibited highly significant positive correlation with minimum temperature (r= 0.491**) and morning relative humidity (r= 0.528**). Solar radiation also exhibited and showed a significant positive correlation with leaf webber (r= 533**). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is an important concern worldwide. This huge change is causing a negative impact on crop productivity throughout the whole world and shows some drastic effects on sensitive crops including sweet pepper and other kinds of chilies. These stresses have a negative effect on vegetable growth, fruit quality, and fruit yield. Besides these stresses, accurate planting time is the utmost factor in increasing the crop potential and its productivity. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the optimal planting date and best-performing cultivar for sweet pepper to maximize crop productivity, growth, yield, and fruit shelf life under the impacts of climate change. The experiment was conducted in Multan, Pakistan (30° 25 N and 71° 30 E). In this experiment, four planting dates (10 January, 25 January, 10 February, and 25 February) with three cultivars (Ganga, Winner, and Savio) were grown with three replications (each year) during 2020 and 2021. Our findings showed that plant growth, fresh and dry biomass, yield, and yield attributes were statistically higher in earlier plantings, and lower in delayed planting. Regarding the cultivars in both years, 'Winner' performed better in all growth and yield parameters as compared to other growing cultivars. Lower weight loss and decay incidence were reported in 'Winner' cultivar. Additionally, 'Winner' cultivar showed a higher sensory score as compared to the other cultivar in both years. From the results, we conclude that the nursery of sweet pepper plants should be planted on the 25 January to attain higher crop productivity, and the cultivar 'Winner' showed promising effects so it should be planted for better yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Optimum planting date and appropriate fertilizer module are essential facets of chrysanthemum cultivation, to enhance quality yield, and improve soil health. A field-based study was undertaken over multiple growing seasons in 2022 and 2023, where six different planting dates, viz., P1:June 15, P2:June 30, P3:July 15, P4:July 30, P5:August 15 and P6:August 30 and two fertilizer modules, FM1:Jeevamrit @ 30 ml plant−1 and FM2:NPK @ 30 g m−2 were systematically examined using a Randomized Block Design (factorial), replicated thrice. Results: P6 planting resulted in early bud formation (44.03 days) and harvesting stage (90.78 days). Maximum plant height (79.44 cm), plant spread (34.04 cm), cut stem length (68.40 cm), flower diameter (7.83 cm), stem strength (19.38˚), vase life (14.90 days), flowering duration (24.08 days), available soil N (314 kg ha−1), available P (37 kg ha−1), available K (347 kg ha−1), bacterial count (124.87 × 107 cfu g−1 soil), actinomycetes count (60.72 × 102 cfu g−1 soil), fungal count (30.95 × 102 cfu g−1 soil), microbial biomass (48.79 µg g−1 soil), dehydrogenase enzyme (3.64 mg TPF h−1 g−1 soil) and phosphatase enzyme (23.79 mol PNP h−1 g−1 soil) was recorded in P1 planting. Among the fertilization module, minimum days to bud formation (74.94 days) and days to reach the harvesting stage (120.95 days) were recorded with the application of NPK @30 g m−2. However, maximum plant height (60.62 cm), plant spread (23.10 cm), number of cut stems m−2 (43.88), cut stem length (51.34 cm), flower diameter (6.92 cm), stem strength (21.24˚), flowering duration (21.75 days), available soil N (317 kg ha−1), available P (37 kg ha−1) and available K (349 kg ha−1) were also recorded with the application of NPK @300 kg ha−1. Maximum vase life (13.87 days), OC (1.13%), bacterial count (131.65 × 107 cfu g−1 soil), actinomycetes count (60.89 × 102 cfu g−1 soil), fungal count (31.11 × 102 cfu g−1 soil), microbial biomass (51.27 µg g−1 soil), dehydrogenase enzyme (3.77 mg TPF h−1 g−1 soil) and phosphatase enzyme (21.72 mol PNP h−1 g−1 soil) were observed with the application of Jeevamrit @ 30 ml plant−1. Conclusion: Early planting (P1) and inorganic fertilization (NPK @ 30 g m−2) resulted in improved yield and soil macronutrient content. The soil microbial population and enzymatic activity were improved with the jeevamrit application. This approach highlights the potential for improved yield and soil health in chrysanthemum cultivation, promoting a more eco-friendly and economically viable agricultural model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenological models serve as a potent tool in management practices and determining flowering time in ornamental crops. Schwab's staging system for development of gladiola that relies on easily identifiable visual characteristics was used in the study to describe the detailed developmental stages and requirement of agrometeorological indices for each stage. The study was conducted with five gladiolus varieties planted at four different times to characterize the varieties for planting time. Plants under September and October plantings completed their phenological development in less time and accumulated fewer agrometeorological indices because of favourable temperature and short day conditions. The phenological model revealed that Punjab Lemon Delight and Punjab Glance could be planted in September as their blooming was delayed by 32 and 17 days, respectively and corm harvesting by 48 and 43 days respectively, when planted in December. The delay in blooming was 18 and 15 days respectively for Punjab Glad 3 and CPG and corresponding values for corm harvesting were 30 and 26 days when planting was done in December indicating that these varieties could be suitable for late planting. White Prosperity could be planted in October or November because when comparing planting in these 2 months, the number of days to bloom and the number of days to corm harvesting were similar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing delays in the onset of the rainy season and extended dry spells in the Nigerian savannas are complicating the determination of optimal planting dates for rain-fed crops, which increases risks for farmers. This study evaluated the impact of planting dates on soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] performance to identify optimal planting dates for different soybean varieties in two agroecological zones (AEZs) of Nigeria. The study involved six planting dates (15 June, 22 June, 29 June, 6 July, 13 July, and 20 July) and three soybean varieties (TGX-1835-10E, TGX-1951-3F, TGX-1904-6F). Results showed significant differences in growth and yield parameters based on location, variety, and planting date. In the Sudan savanna (SS), AEZ at BUK-Kano, optimal yields (>1500 kg ha−1) were achieved when planting TGX-1835-10E and TGX-1951-3F from 15 to 29 June and TGX-1904-6F on 15 June. Planting beyond 29 June reduces yields by 12–55% for TGX-1835-10E and 27–63% for TGX-1951-3F. For TGX-1904-6F, planting after 15 June reduces yields by 27–90%. In the Northern Guinea savanna (NGS) AEZ at Zaria, optimal yields (>1500 kg ha−1) were obtained when planting TGX-1835-10E and TGX-1951-3F from 15 June to 6 July, and TGX-1904-6F between 15 to 29 June. Delaying planting beyond these dates significantly reduced yields by 18–31% for TGX-1835-10E and 12–20% for TGX-1951-3F and 10–41% for TGX-1904-6F.

This study aimed to investigate the impact of fertilizer application under two planting dates on soil chemical properties and cassava production. Field studies were conducted at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) and Psaltry International Limited (PSALTRY), Nigeria. The trials were laid out in a split plot arrangement with planting dates (early and late plantings) as main plot and fertilizer application (nill versus fertilized) as sub plot. The fertilized plots received 75 kg N, 20 kg P, and 90 kg K per hectare sourced from NPK 15:15:15, Urea and Muriate of Potash. The treatments were fitted into a Randomized Complete Block Design with four replicates. Soil textures were sandy clay loam (FUNAAB) and loamy sand (PSALTRY). Post-harvest soil properties were significantly affected by location. Total nitrogen was 40.2% higher for late planting at FUNAAB and 3.7% higher at PSALTRY compared to early planting. Potassium had similar trend as N but differs for organic carbon. Fertilized plots had higher soil nutrients than unfertilized plots, which was 36.3% and 18.2% higher at FUNAAB and 10.3% and 90.9% higher at PSALTRY for cation exchange capacity and organic carbon, respectively. Growth and yield parameters significantly differed with planting date at both locations, with higher root yield for late planting at FUNAAB and early planting at PSALTRY. Fertilizer application resulted in 62.3% and 24.7% increase in root yield for early and late plantings, respectively. Fertilizer application improved soil properties and cassava growth, but results varied by planting dates and locations. Thus, sitespecific fertilizer recommendations are needed to boost cassava production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global climate change is a serious threat to food and energy security. Crop growth modelling is an important tool for simulating crop food production and assisting in decision making. Planting date is one of the important model parameters. Larger-scale spatial distribution with high accuracy for planting dates is essential for the widespread application of crop growth models. In this study, a planting date prediction method based on environmental similarity was developed in accordance with the third law of geography. Spring maize planting date observations from 124 agricultural meteorological experiment stations in China over the years 1992–2010 were used as the data source. Samples spanning from 1992 to 2009 were allocated as training data, while samples from 2010 constituted the independent validation set. The results indicated that the root mean square error (RMSE) for spring maize planting date based on environmental similarity was 10 days, which is better than that of multiple regression analysis (RMSE = 13 days) in 2010. Additionally, when applied at varying scales, the accuracy of national-scale prediction was better than that of regional-scale prediction in areas with large differences in planting dates. Consequently, the method based on environmental similarity can effectively and accurately estimate planting date parameters at multiple scales and provide reasonable parameter support for large-scale crop growth modelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted at the Vegetable Research field of Horticulture Research Centre Division, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Gazipur, Bangladesh, during October 2018 to March 2019 to find out the effect of growing condition and planting date on yield and yield attributes of squash. The experiment comprised two sets of treatments viz., (a) Growing conditions: (i) Open cultivation (C1); (ii) Net protected cultivation (C2) and Cultivation with barrier crop (C3) and (b) Planting dates: (i) 1 November (D1); (ii) 15 November(D2); (iii) 1 December (D3) and (iv) 15 December (D4) in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The variety BARI squash-1 was used in this experiment. The results showed that net protected cultivation showed significantly the highest fruit plant-1, fruit length, yield plant-1 and yield ha-1. Growing condition did not affect quality parameters of quash. Early planting (1 November) showed significantly higher yield, yield attributes and quality parameters than late planting. Fruit diameter did not showed any significant difference irrespective of planting date. The interaction between growing condition and planting dates was significant for yield and quality parameters. Based on the study results it is concluded that maximum yield (49.33 t ha-1) and quality of BARI squash-1 could be achieved through cultivation under net protected condition with 1 November planting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the performance of six bread wheat genotypes introduced by a national wheat research program. These genotypes were sown at four planting dates 20th October, 10th November (recommended), 30th November and 20th December during two winter seasons of 2019/2020 and 2020/2021. The separate experiments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications in each environment. The combined analysis of variance showed that mean squares due to environments were highly significant for number of spikes m-2, 1000-kernel weight as well as grain yield (ard/fed) this result indicated that the studied genotypes exhibited different effect from environment to other. Mean squares due to genotypes x environments were highly significant for all studied traits except number of spikes/m2. Parameters of phenotypic stability indicated that wheat genotypes Giza 171 and Misr3 are considered a stable verity for studied environments for grain yield (ard/fed), respectively, where had a coefficient of regression don’t significantly differ from one and less amount of S2di and adapted.

A field experiment was carried out at the Agricultural Research Station of the College of Agriculture, University of Anbar for the season 2021- 2022, in order to study the effect of different levels of potassium fertilization and planting dates on the growth and yield of local garlic. Four levels of potassium fertilization were used 0, 150, 200, 250 kg ha-1, they were added at three dates 15/9, 1/10, 15/10. The study was carried out as a factorial experiment in a randomized complete block design (R.C.B.D.) with three replications. Plants fertilized at the level (250 kg ha-1) were significantly outperformed in vegetative growth, yield and quality (leaf area, total yield and oil percentage) and reached (7.33 dm2 and 14.48 ton ha-1 and 14.18%) respectively compared to the unfertilized plants that gave the lowest value was (3.73 dm2 and 10.33 tons ha-1 and 12.39%) respectively. The results also showed that the first (early) date was significantly superior in the characteristics of vegetative growth, yield and quality (leaf area, total yield and oil percentage) with 7.08 dm2, 17.23 tons ha-1, and 13.84% respectively, compared to the third planting date with the lowest leaf area, yield, and oil percentage (6.34 dm2 plant, 2.86 tons ha-1, and 12.67%) respectively. The interaction between the factors was significant difference, as the early date and fertilization level of 250 kg ha-1 were superior in the vegetative growth, yield and quality characteristics amounted to (7.64 dm2, 19.70 tons ha-1, and 14.80%) compared to the lowest amount achieved by the late date and non-fertilized plants for the same traits, which amounted to 5.31 dm2, 2, 7.35 tones ha-1 and 12.39% respectively.

A pot experiment was performed in the open field of Ornamental Plants and Landscape Gardening Research Department Nursery, Horticulture Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Giza, Egypt, during 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 seasons to improve the quality of Gladiolus grandiflorus ‘Peters Pears’ growth and flowering. To achieve this goal different planting dates (July, October and February) and various soil drench additions (yeast and garlic extracts) were employed, while different parameters i.e. plant height (cm), leaf number/plant, spike stem length (cm), spike fresh and dry weights (g), corms fresh and dry weights (g), and pigments content of the fresh leaves (chlorophyll a, b and carotenoids; mg/g f.w.) were measured. The obtained results showed that planting on 15th October in addition to soil drenching with yeast extract produced the highest values in most studied characters except for corms' fresh and dry weights (g) which were increased by planting on 15th February in addition to soil drenching with yeast extract. So, to obtain the best results it is recommended to plant Gladiolus grandiflorus ‘Peters Pears’ corms on 15th October in addition to soil drenching with yeast extract (2 g/l three times at 15-day intervals)

This article discusses a study conducted in Southern Odisha, India, to determine the optimal planting dates and varieties of pole type French beans. The study evaluated four planting dates and five French bean varieties. The results showed that planting on October 17th yielded the highest plant height, number of green pods per cluster, and green pod yield per hectare. The varieties Ayoka-427 and Raikia Bean performed well in terms of growth, flowering, and yield. The study suggests that these varieties can be recommended to farmers for cultivation in October in Southern Odisha. The article also discusses the effects of planting dates and varieties on flowering traits, yield, and yield attributing traits in French beans. The study found that early flowering and early maturing varieties are preferable for off-season cultivation as they fetch higher market prices. Planting in October resulted in higher green pod yield compared to September planting. Varieties also showed differences in various traits such as days to first harvest, average green pod weight, and green pod yield. The variety Ayoka-427 performed the best in terms of green pod yield. The study concluded that planting dates and improved varieties can significantly increase productivity, with the best results observed in the second fortnight of October planting with Ayoka-427 and Raikia Bean in the Southern part of Odisha. [Extracted from the article]

Maize is one of the most important staple food crops for most low-income households in the Southern African region. Erratic and inconsistent rainfall distribution across maize-growing areas is a major threat to maize production. Late rains in recent years have forced farmers to plant later than the optimal planting dates, leading to poor maize quality being reported by industry, which raised the question of the influence of later planting dates on grain yield and quality traits of maize. Three yellow and three white maize hybrids were evaluated at three planting dates in three different production environments for three consecutive seasons using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The second and third planting dates caused a significant yield decrease of 23.37 % and 53.73 % from the first planting date across environments, respectively. Planting date three was associated with decreased grain yield, starch content, and increased protein but no significant change in fat and fiber content. Some hybrids yielded relatively well at all planting dates. In conclusion, the early planting date was the most suitable for maize grain yield and starch production in the maize-growing areas of the country. However, planting in January should be avoided at all costs, as it leads to very low yield and poor grain quality.

Selecting the appropriate date for planting rice can be one of the viable solutions for proper growth and development of rice to avoid unsuitable conditions that can lead to lower productivity. Two experiments were conducted in the field of Al-Mishkhab Rice Research Station in Najaf City / Iraq during 2020 and 2021. In each season, eight genotypes used and two germination dates (15 and 30 Jun). After 20 days, seedlings were transferred to the field and planted on 5th and 20th of July respectively. The experiment was based on a three-blocks in RCBD design to study the performance of eight genotypes at two planting dates in two seasons. Results showed significant differences for genotypes and planting dates for all traits, while seasons showed significant differences only for the number of days to 50% flowering and panicle length. The values of heritability in the broad sense (h2 BS %) were medium for all studied traits, which in turn led to an increase in the values of expected genetic advance as a percentage of the general mean (GA %), which was slightly high for grain yield (13.66 %). The genotypes showed a significant response to the late sowing date of 20th July compared to the early date of 5th July in the two growing seasons for most of the studied traits, including grain yield. The stability of the genotypes in four environments was highly variable. Genotype T93 had the most stable grain yield and the highest 1000-grain weight, while Forat1 showed a response to late sowing. Furthermore, the Forat1 responded to suitable environmental conditions of the number of days to 50% flowering, 1000-grain weight, and grain yield. Therefore, the genotypes which have superiority and stability over various environments could be successfully used as crucial material in the future breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Kirkuk University for Agricultural Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Iraq Journal of Market Research & Consumer Protection / Al-Mağallaẗ al-ʿIrāqiyyaẗ li-Buḥūṯ al-Sūq wa-Ḥimāyaẗ al-Mustahlik is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Anbar Journal of Agricultural Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Sowing dates are an important factor in determining grain yield as they fall within the climatic changes, as the temperature plays an important role in increasing the yield. For the purpose of evaluating the planting dates during the winter season, a field experiment was conducted at Experiments Station, affiliated to the Department of Field Crops/College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Baghdad during 2020-21. The aim was to study the effect of planting dates on soft wheat cultivar (KM5180). A randomized complete block design (R. C. B. D.) was used with three replications. Sowing dates were used as main parameters viz., November 22nd (D1), December 6th (D2) and December 20th (D3). The results showed the superiority of the sowing date (D1) by giving the highest average grain yield of 5.740 t/ha as a result of the superiority of the plants of this date in the number of spikes/m2 (441.7), the biological yield (17.896 t/ha), the harvest index (32.09%) and the plant height (101.387 cm) and the weight of 1000 grains/g was 39.97 g, significantly superior to dates (D2) and (D3), which gave an average of 4.423 and 2.428 t/ha, 358.3 and 331.7 spikes/m2, 14.556 and 11.353 t/ha, 30.38 and 21.39%, 89.033 and 85.387 cm and 39.11 and 28.28 cm, respectively, The reason for the superiority was due to the appropriate environmental conditions accompanying during the growth period, including the appropriate temperature that gave the products of photosynthesis sufficient to meet the requirements to complete the stages of its growth and form the initiators of its organs in an optimal form, which was positively reflected on the components of the appointment (D1). As for the delay in the dates D2 and D3, the high temperatures coincided with the critical growth stages of plant growth, which reflected negatively on some traits. 7. Sequentially a grain/spike and (11.43, 11.54 and 11.29 cm, respectively. While date D3 was significantly superior in terms of the number of spikelets/spike with an average of (16,800) spikelets/spike over dates D2 and D1, and they gave an average of (16,300 and 16,200) spikelets/spike, respectively. In the light of the obtained results, we conclude that the shares of the total dates (D2) and (D3) reached 54% higher than the contribution of the sowing date (D1), which amounted to 46%, while the late sowing date (D3) achieved half of the share of the share in the grain yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selecting the appropriate date for planting rice can be one of the viable solutions for proper growth and development of rice to avoid unsuitable conditions that can lead to lower productivity. Two experiments were conducted in the field of Al-Mishkhab Rice Research Station in Najaf City / Iraq during 2020 and 2021. In each season, eight genotypes used and two germination dates (15 and 30 Jun). After 20 days, seedlings were transferred to the field and planted on 5th and 20th of July respectively. The experiment was based on a three-blocks in RCBD design to study the performance of eight genotypes at two planting dates in two seasons. Results showed significant differences for genotypes and planting dates for all traits, while seasons showed significant differences only for the number of days to 50% flowering and panicle length. The values of heritability in the broad sense (h2BS %) were medium for all studied traits, which in turn led to an increase in the values of expected genetic advance as a percentage of the general mean (GA %), which was slightly high for grain yield (13.66 %). The genotypes showed a significant response to the late sowing date of 20th July compared to the early date of 5th July in the two growing seasons for most of the studied traits, including grain yield. The stability of the genotypes in four environments was highly variable. Genotype T93 had the most stable grain yield and the highest 1000-grain weight, while Forat1 showed a response to late sowing. Furthermore, the Forat1 responded to suitable environmental conditions of the number of days to 50% flowering, 1000-grain weight, and grain yield. Therefore, the genotypes which have superiority and stability over various environments could be successfully used as crucial material in the future breeding programs.

Cotton crop is an imperative role in Pakistan’s economy. It faces several environmental situations which check its growth and production. Climate changes bring a head new pressure for cotton cultivation in the Pakistan especially in Sindh province. The present study was carried out at Nuclear Institute of Agriculture (NIA), Tandojam in 2021. Four advance lines NIA-88, M-32, NIA-Bt. 89 and NIA-Bt.90 along with two local check varieties IUB-2013 and CRIS-121 were evaluated under two planting dates viz. 1st April and 1st May having three replicates under randomized complete block design with factorial arrangements. The data depicted that crop sown on 1st April produced more seed cotton yield (2855.5 kg ha-1) than sown on 1st May with (1674.4 kg ha-1). Comparing the average varietal performance in both sowing dates, NIA-88 produced maximum seed cotton yield (2339.2 kg ha-1) while minimum seed cotton yield (2137.2 kg ha-1) was exhibited by check variety CRIS-121. Boll retention % was maximum (44%) in advance line NIA-88. The maximum number of bolls plant-1 (42.0), sympodial branches plant-1 (26.0), ginning out turn percentage (42.0), seed index (8.1g) and staple length (29.0mm) respectively was obtained in 1st April sowing date while minimum number of bolls plant-1, sympodial branches plant-1, ginning out turn percentage, seed index and staple length (33.0), (15.0), (36.3), (6.0g) and (27.0mm) took in 1st May sown crop. Associating the average varietal performance in both sowing dates NIA-88 produced maximum number of bolls plant-1(44.0), sympodial branches plant-1 (23.0), ginning out turn percentage (40.4), seed index (9.0g) and staple length (29.0mm) respectively. The results indicated that the planting dates and genotypes influenced on seed cotton yield and associated traits in current changing climate scenario for cotton crop.

Global climate change is a serious threat to food and energy security. Crop growth modelling is an important tool for simulating crop food production and assisting in decision making. Planting date is one of the important model parameters. Larger-scale spatial distribution with high accuracy for planting dates is essential for the widespread application of crop growth models. In this study, a planting date prediction method based on environmental similarity was developed in accordance with the third law of geography. Spring maize planting date observations from 124 agricultural meteorological experiment stations in China over the years 1992–2010 were used as the data source. Samples spanning from 1992 to 2009 were allocated as training data, while samples from 2010 constituted the independent validation set. The results indicated that the root mean square error (RMSE) for spring maize planting date based on environmental similarity was 10 days, which is better than that of multiple regression analysis (RMSE = 13 days) in 2010. Additionally, when applied at varying scales, the accuracy of national-scale prediction was better than that of regional-scale prediction in areas with large differences in planting dates. Consequently, the method based on environmental similarity can effectively and accurately estimate planting date parameters at multiple scales and provide reasonable parameter support for large-scale crop growth modelling.

Leaves are photosynthetic organs that greatly affect plant growth and yield. In an intercropping system, leaves often experience shade stress, so it is necessary to adjust the planting dates between intercrops. This study aimed to determine the effect of additive intercropping of sorghum with peanut relay-planted at different dates on yield of sorghum and its relationship with leaf characteristics of the sorghum plants. The experiment, carried out in the IP2TP NTB experimental farm located East Lombok (Indonesia) from September 2020 to January 2021, was arranged according to a randomized block design with four treatments, namely W0 (sorghum monocrop), W1 (peanut relay-planted 14 days before sorghum planting), W2 (peanut relay-planted on the same day as sorghum planting), W3 (peanut relay-planted 14 days after planting (DAP) of sorghum). The experiment was made in 4 blocks (replicates). Results indicated that additive intercropping of sorghum with peanut relay-planted at different dates between rows of sorghum did no affected characteristics of sorghum leaves, but those leaf characteristics showed significant correlation with grain yield of sorghum especially the greenness levels of the leaves at 60 and 80 DAP and greenness levels of the flag leaves, which all showed significant correlation coefficients. However, those intercropping treatments had a significant effect on grain yield, dry stover weight and harvest index of sorghum, with the highest dry grain yield of 46.87 g/plant (or 3.35 ton/ha) was obtained on sorghum intercropped with peanut relay-planted on the same day as sorghum planting date.

Freesia (Freesia x hybrida) is one of the most cultivated species of cut flowers, ranking sixth in the international market. Pheno- logical processes occurring during the crop cycle are controlled by endogenous mechanisms and the environment, which in turn influence the duration and occurrence of the development phases. This study aimed to analyze the effect of planting dates (Feb 15, March 19, April 16, May 21, and June 21, 2021) on the occurrence and duration of the development phases of two freesia varieties (Blue Bayou and Yvonne). The trial was conducted in a high tunnel. The crop cycle was divided into vegetative, reproductive, and senescence phases. The number of leaves was counted daily. The development phases were significantly shortened with the delay of planting. The vegetative phase ranged between 2269.78 ± 19.22 and 736.50 ± 19.22 GDD for Blue B., and between 1864.48 ± 19.22 and 667.09 ± 19.22 GDD for Yvonne. The reproductive phase lasted 459.50 ± 20.99 and 379.51 ± 20.99 GDD for Blue B., 461.43 ± 20.99 and 487.29 ± 20.99 GDD for Yvonne. The senescence phase was shortened with delayed planting dates only for Yvonne. Plants cultivated at later dates (May 21, and June 21), and consequently exposed to increased photoperiod, had a lower number of leaves at flowering (7.85 ± 0.10) and were less exposed to inductive temperatures than plants cultivated earlier. The transition to the reproductive phase was determined by the interaction between photoperiod, temperature and plant age.

The current experiment was executed to study impact of different planting dates during 2016-2017 (July 01, July 16, July 31, August 15 and August 30) and two cutting types i.e. Hard wood and Semi-hard wood cuttings on rooting response of Silvery treated with various concentrations of IBA (control, 2000, 4000, 6000 and 8000 ppm) at Ornamental Nursery, Horticulture Department, The University of Agriculture Peshawar. The trial was arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with split-split plot arrangement. Planting dates were reserved in main plot, cutting types were taken in the sub plot and IBA concentrations were in sub-sub plot. The average results of two years showed that planting dates, cutting types and IBA treatments and their interactions significantly affected all the growing and rooting parameters. Cuttings planted on July 16 revealed minimum days to sprouting (12.52), more number of sprouts (5.79), high sprout length (44.80 cm), more number of leaves (123), more number of roots (4.73), and plant survival percentage (61.78 %) as compared to the cuttings planted on August, 30 in both the years. Regarding cutting types, semi hard wood cuttings took minimum days to sprouting (16.91), more number of sprouts (4.30), sprout length (32.74 cm) number of leaves (113), number of roots (3.66) and higher plant survival percentage (40.81 %) in comparison to hard wood cuttings. Among various concentrations of IBA, application of IBA at the rate of 8000 ppm resulted in maximum number of sprouts (4.36), number of leaves (113), number of roots (3.61) and plant survival percentage (40.37 %) while minimum days to sprouting (17.07) were noticed at this treatment as compared to the control treatment. Years also exhibited significant impact for all the parameters. The interactive effect of planting dates, cutting types and various IBA concentrations had significant effect on all the parameters. Planting dates and cutting types interaction (PD × CT) significantly affected all the parameters except plant survival percentage. Therefore, it can be determined from the results that, in monsoon season planting of the semi-hard wood cuttings on July, 16 treated with 8000 ppm IBA concentration initiated better vegetative and root growth of Silvery under the climatic conditions of Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus Hort.) is a commercially important open field crop, cultivated for elegant spikes. The development rate is dependent upon temperature so planting date is crucial factor to regulate flower production around the specific days. The present investigation was to validate the application of PhenoGlad model on different varieties grown in Punjab, India so that it could be used as a management tool for meeting market requirements. Five varieties of gladiolus with different developmental cycles were procured from Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, PAU, Ludhiana and planted at monthly interval from September to December at the research farm of Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, PAU, Ludhiana. Punjab Lemon Delight and Punjab Glance took minimum days to reach phenostages whereas Punjab Glad 3 and CPG took maximum days and White Prosperity took intermediate days under all planting dates. Observed days to reach a particular phenostage in our results was close to simulated days under October planting for Punjab Lemon Delight, Punjab Glance and White Prosperity and November planting for Punjab Glad 3 and CPG. Thus, these results validated the use of PhenoGlad model to simulate flowering time of different varieties to regulate the market demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate variability affects crop production in multiple and often complex ways. The development and use hybrid crops with greater productivity and tolerance to climate shocks is one of the approaches to climate adaptation and agricultural intensification. Since hybrid crops are more expensive for the producer, risk management is of paramount importance. Here, we pose that there is high potential for the Colombian maize sector to use crop-specific climate services for risk reduction. We used the CERES-Maize crop model connected to seasonal climate forecasts developed via Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA) across key maize growing areas in Colombia to assess the performance of a maize-specific agroclimatic forecast to inform two key decisions, namely, the choice of sowing dates and genotypes. We find that the agroclimatic models perform well at discriminating yield categories (above, below, and normal) with discrimination capacity of up to 70–80 % for the ‘below normal’ and ‘above + below normal’ categories. Consistent with this, agroclimatic forecasts typically predict the optimal planting date with an error of 3 pentads or less. They also predict the optimal choice of genotype correctly around 50–70 % of the time depending on the site or season of interest. Notably, we identify specific cases in which the agroclimatic forecast is misleading but argue that the overall value of the forecasts outweighs these cases. Future work should focus on expanding the scope of the agroclimatic prediction to include other relevant farming decisions that are influenced by climate, and on the improvement of climate forecast performance.

The article presents data on the impact of agrotechnical measures on the yield and quality of Virginia type tobacco in Uzbekistan. The optimal terms and schemes of planting, irrigation terms, doses of mineral fertilizers of large-leaf tobacco, as well as the influence of these factors on yield and quality indicators were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food production on ever-dwindling agricultural land is a severe problem in Ethiopia, necessitating the adoption of more efficient and sustainable land-use strategies to feed the country's growing population. The benefits of intercropping are known to be limited by a variety of factors such as companion crop sowing date and variety. The present study was therefore initiated to evaluate the effect of varieties and planting dates of lupines in bread wheat-lupine under an additive design intercropping system in Northwest Ethiopia. Field experiments were conducted for two years in Adet and Debre Tabor experimental sites. The treatments consisted of four planting dates of lupines and two varieties of lupine. Moreover, the sole crop of bread wheat (Triticum aestivume L.), local lupine (Lupinus albus L.) and sweet lupine (Lupinus angustiflolius L.) were also included. The experiments were laid out in factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The results showed that at the Adet experimental site, the highest land equivalent ratio (LER) was recorded in the simultaneous planting of sweet lupine and bread wheat (1.3), followed by the planting of sweet lupine two weeks after bread wheat (1.23). While at Debre Tabor experimental site, the highest LER was recorded in planting sweet lupine two weeks after bread wheat (1.67). A greater area time equivalent ratio (ATER) was reported in the simultaneous planting of sweet lupine and bread wheat (1.29), followed by the planting of sweet lupine after bread wheat (1.22) at the Adet experimental site. A greater ATER was also recorded in the planting of sweet lupine after bread wheat (1.53) had the highest ATER in Debre Tabor, followed by simultaneous planting of sweet lupine after bread wheat (1.39) intercropping. This revealed that sole cropping would necessitate 29 and 53% more area, respectively, to attain the same yield as intercropping. In Adet, the simultaneous planting of sweet lupine and bread wheat intercropping, while in Debre Tabor, planting of sweet lupine two weeks after bread wheat boosted productivity, and production efficiency and is a viable option for increasing household food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research is aimed at studying the growth, development, formation of the crop of tops and tubers, indicators of productivity, yield and storability, depending on the timing of planting seedlings of new sweet potato varieties as the main and secondary crops, and on their basis to determine the optimal timing for planting seedlings of sweet potato varieties, both main and secondary. Field experiments were carried out in 2019-2021 under the conditions of irrigated typical gray soils of the Samarkand region. Varieties of sweet potato Khazina (standard), Sochakinur, Tailoki, Filial with planting dates of April 10 (control), April 20, April 30, April 10, 20, and May 30, 2005 in the main culture were comparatively evaluated, and in the secondary culture, the seedling planting dates of June 20, 30, and July 10 were compared (control). The seedling planting scheme for all periods was 90x20x1 cm. Sprouted seed tubers weighing 120-150 g were taken from sweet potato varieties, they were planted in a film nursery at a depth of 4-5 cm, soil moisture was maintained at least 65-70%, after 45-48 days of care, seedlings with 4-5 leaves were grown, ready for planting in the field. It was revealed that when cultivating varieties of sweet potato as the main and secondary crops, depending on the timing of planting, the seedling yield from each seed tuber was 12.8-20.7 pieces, the largest seedling yield (15.4-20.7 pieces) was observed in varieties Sochakinur, Tailoki, Filial. The duration of the growing season for the standard was 132-142, and for new varieties 119-136 days. The vegetation period of the studied varieties in the main culture was extended by 2-7 days compared to planting as a second crop. It has been established that under the conditions of irrigated typical sierozem soils of the Samarkand region, in order to obtain a high yield (50 t/ha and more as the main crop, and 35-40 t/ha in the secondary crop), it is advisable to cultivate sweet potato varieties Sochakinur, Tailoki, Filial, plant seedlings of these varieties in the main culture on April 20-30 and in the secondary culture on June 20-30 according to the scheme 70x25 and 90x20 cm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Egyptian Journal of Agronematology is the property of Egyptian Society for Agronematology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The present study attempts to determine the best planting date and concentration of spraying with gibberellin to improve the performance and quality of maize's growth and yield traits. This investigation was carried out in the district of Tarmiyah - Baghdad governorate to study the effect of planting dates and spraying with gibberellin on the growth and yield of corn (Zea mays L.) of the variety (Buhooth 106) for the summer farming season in 2020. The experiment was applied according to the Randomized Complete Block Design (R.C.B.D) with the split plot system, using four planting dates (1/7, 10/7, 21/7, and 28/7/2020) and four concentrations of gibberellin (0, 150, 250, and 350 mg. Liter-1). The best significant superior value was recorded on 21/7/2020 by interference with a concentration of 350 mg. L-1 in most of the traits, as it was recorded (221.14 cm) for the height of the plant, (45.39%) for chlorophyll, (300.33 g) for the weight of 1000 kernel, (13.54 tons. h-1) for the grain yield, (18.84 rows. ear -1) for the number of rows in ear, (14.27%) for protein, and (5.22%) for oil. Whereas it significantly exceeded the date 28/7/2020 by an interference with the concentration of 350 mg. L-1 in the two traits of the number of grains in the row and the gibberellin content in leaves, its values were (44.62 grain. row-1 and 46.09 μmol) respectively. Accordingly, it is concluded that the optimal intervention mixture is determined to be an intrusion with a concentration of 350 mg. L-1 at the date of 21/7/2020 was included in the majority of the traits tested.

A field experiment was carried out during the winter season 2020-2021 in the AL-Sufia area, east of Ramadi, to estimate effect of spraying cytokinin on the growth and yield of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). By using the split plot plate arrangement by randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications, the study included two factors, the first factor, three concentrations of cytokinin 0 (K1), 30 (K2) and 60 (K3) mg L-1. taken and sprayed on the vegetative part in equal parts for two sprays, each spraying 0, 15 and 30 mg L-1 when the first vegetative branch appeared. The second factor is the planting dates and they were Oct 25th , Nov 10th, Nov 25th and Dec 10th, and the symbols (D1, D2, D3, D4) were taken. Concentration of 60 mg L-1 of cytokinin significantly affected the yield characteristics and its components, as this concentration recorded the highest average in the characteristics number of grains in the spike, weight of 1000 grains, and grain yield was 26.20 grains in the spike-1 and 53.77 g. and 5.633 ton H-1 respectively. The planting dates also had a significant effect on the yield characteristics and its components, second date superior Nov 10th in most of the studied traits, and the yield traits recorded the highest rates in the trait of the number of spikes 402.7 spikes m-2 and number of grains spike 26.17 grain spike-1, and grain yield amounted to 6.198 ton h-1

The study was conducted during spring season (2022), to determine the effect of early planting for four planting dates (18/ 1, 2/ 2, 17/ 2 and 4/3/2022), and four levels of potassium fertilizer (30, 60, 90 and 120) kg ha-1, on the yield and fullness of sunflower grains, cultivar Shamoos, was carried out by arranging the split panels according to a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replicates The results of the experiment showed significant effects of planting dates on growth, yield and quality traits, as the D4 planting date was superior to vegetative growth traits (50% flowering and plant height) by giving it the highest average of these two traits, which amounted to 84.58 days and 274.30 cm. giving it the highest average for the trait, which reached 4.35% As for the yield traits and its components, the planting date D1 exceeded the characteristics (number of full seeds, weight of 1000 seeds and yield of individual plant) as it gave the highest average of these traits amounted to (1281.13 seeds disc-1, 128.65 g and 165.12 g) respectively. The results of the experiment showed a significant effect of potassium levels on the characteristics of vegetative growth, yield and quality, as the K4 fertilization treatment gave the highest average for the traits (50% inflorescence and the number of full seeds), which reached (84.58 days and 1047.30 seeds disc-1) respectively, while the K2 fertilization treatment gave The highest mean of potassium content in leaves and weight of 1000 seeds was 4.29% and 120.78 gm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to evaluate the influence of various sowing times on flowering, pollen viability and seed yield of zinnia (Zinnia elegans) cultivars 'Lilliput' and 'Super Yoga' under Faisalabad, Pakistan conditions. Seeds of both Zinnia cultivars were sown in 128-cell plug trays at 20 days interval from March 14 to August 20, during 2019. Seedlings were transplanted in thoroughly prepared field beds after 15 days of each sowing, according to factorial arranged randomized complete block design, with three replications. Data were recorded for various growths, flowering traits, pollen viability and seed related parameters. Super Yoga excelled over Lilliput for most the studied traits except number of lateral shoots, flowers per plant, unopened flower buds, pollen viability and seed yield per plant; values of these traits were higher for Lilliput than Super Yoga. Significant variation among various sowing times was recorded in both cultivars. Seeds sown on March 14, 2019 performed best compared to later sowing times for plant height, number of lateral shoots per plant, length of the lateral shoots, leaf area, number of flowers per plant, flower diameter, pollen viability, seed yield per plant and seed viability. However, total number of un-opened flower buds, seed weight per flower and 100-seed weight were more in April 03 sowing, although statistically similar to March 14 sowing. Seed yield declined gradually with delay in sowing; 66% less seed yield in June 20 sowing. Further delay in sowing did not produce seed. It was concluded that Zinnia should be sown by mid-March for getting high seed yield of good quality; later sowing, even during first week of April, resulted in 17.5% decrease in seed yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted at the nursery of ornamental plants, Faculty of Agriculture, Minia University during 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 seasons to study the effect of three planting dates (November 1st, November 15th and December1st) and three plant spacings (10, 15 and 20 cm) on growth, yield and chemical composition of quinoa plants to obtain the best agricultural transactions under the conditions of Central Egypt. The results showed significant effects of planting dates on all the studied traits, except for plant height, weight of 1000 seeds and protein% in both seasons, with the planting date of November 15th being the best date. The effect of plant spacing was significant for all studied characters, except for weight of 1000 seeds and protein % in the first season. Planting quinoa seeds at 15 cm. was superior to the other spacings in most cases. The interaction between planting dates and plant spacing between plants was insignificant except for number of panicles/plant and yield of seeds/plant (g) in both seasons and the weight of 1000 seed (g) and seed yield/fed (ton) in the second season. Therefore, it is recommended to cultivate the quinoa on November 15th at a distance of 15 cm apart under the conditions of Central Egypt because it gave the best values ​​for economic characteristics

Copyright of Iraqi Journal of Desert Studies is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A field experiment was carried out in Al-Muthanna Governorate, Warka District, for the season 2020-2021. To find out the effect of planting dates and the splitting of nitrogen fertilizer on the yield and its components for the wheat crop, the experiment was carried out according to the arrangement of the split-plot design, using the Randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The transactions were randomly distributed within each block, the total of the experimental units was 27 experimental units. The planting dates were 15 October, 1 November and 15 November which took the symbols D1, D2 and D3 respectively, put in the main plots. At the same time, fertilizer fractionation of nitrogen into (two, three and four batches) was placed in different growth stages with a fertilizer level of 200 kg N.ha-1 in the sub plots. The results of the experiment showed the superiority of treatment that included four batches in most of the characteristics of the experiment, as it gave the highest averages in the characteristics of grains number, the weight of 1000 grains, grain yield, biological yield and harvest index, amounted to (49.63 grain.spike-1, 38.21 g, 5.74 t.ha-1, 21.02 t.ha-1 and 28.11%), respectively, while the treatment three batches were superior in spikes number, it gave the highest average of 439.3 spikes.m2. As for the planting dates, the planting date D3 was significantly superior in all the characters of the experiment by giving the highest averages of (425.8 spikes.m2, 48.20 grains. spikes-1, 36.40 g, 5.65 t.ha-1, 20.42 t.ha-1 and 27.61%) in spikes number, the number of grains per spike, the weight of 1000 grains, the grain yield, the biological yield and the harvest index on the sequence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate and operational indicators of the start of growing season (SOS) are critical for crop modeling, famine early warning, and agricultural management in the developing world. Erroneous SOS estimates–late, or early, relative to actual planting dates–can lead to inaccurate crop production and food-availability forecasts. Adapting rainfed agriculture to climate change requires improved harmonization of planting with the onset of rains, and the rising ubiquity of mobile phones in east Africa enables real-time monitoring of this important agricultural decision. We investigate whether antecedent agro-meteorological variables and household-level attributes can be used to predict planting dates of small-scale maize producers in central Kenya. Using random forest models, we compare remote estimates of SOS with field-level survey data of actual planting dates. We compare three years of planting dates (2016–2018) for two rainy seasons (the October-to-December short rains, and the March-to-May long rains) gathered from weekly Short Message Service (SMS) mobile phone surveys. In situ data are compared to SOS from the Water Requirement Satisfaction Index (SOSWRSI) and other agro-meteorological variables from Earth observation (EO) datasets (rainfall, NDVI, and evaporative demand). The majority of farmers planted within 20 days of the SOSWRSI from 2016 to 2018. In the 2016 long rains season, many farmers reported planting late, which corresponds to drought conditions. We find that models relying solely on EO variables perform as well as models using both socio-economic and EO variables. The predictive accuracy of EO variables appears to be insensitive to differences in reference periods that were tested for deriving EO anomalies (1, 3, 5, or 10 years). As such, it would appear that farmers are either responding to short-term weather conditions (e.g., intra-seasonal variability), or longer trends than were included in this study (e.g., 25–30 years), when planting. The methodologies used in this study, weekly SMS surveys, provide an operational means for estimating farmer behaviors–information which is traditionally difficult and costly to collect.

Wheat cultivation under a dual-purpose (DP) system holds great potential to provide additional fodder for livestock with marginal grain reduction. This study explores the potential of wheat as a DP crop for improving both, forage and grain cropping system by finding out optimal sowing dates and cultivars suitable for DP cropping. Field experiments with four cultivars (Saleem-2000, Bathoor-2007, Fakhre Sarhad-99 (FS-99) and Siran-2008), three sowing dates (October 15, October 30 and November 15) and two cutting treatments (cut and no-cut) determines the effects on yield and physiology of wheat. Wheat sown either in mid or end of October resulted in 11 and 8% increase in grain yield while 13 and 9% in biological yield over mid November sowing, respectively. This increase in yield was due to higher grain spike−1, chlorophyll content, transpiration rate and relative water content. The cultivars Siran-2008 and Saleem-2000 had higher biological and grain yields than other cultivars across cutting and sowing dates treatments. Biological and grain yields were reduced by 4% and 3%, respectively under the DP wheat compared with no-cut treatment, but grains N content was unaffected. Conclusively, DP wheat system (cut treatment) had higher profitability (11.2%) than wheat crop sown only for grain purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two years field trail was conducted for evaluating the effect of different bio-liquids (vermiwash) sources on sunflower sown at different sowing dates. Experiment was comprised of three sowing dates viz. 20th February, 1st March and 10th March, with three levels of vermiwash viz. alligator @ 15%, alfalfa @ 15% and alligator @ 7.5% + alfalfa @ 7.5% along with control. Foliar application of bio-liquid was sprayed at bud formation, flower initiation and seed (achene) formation. Results revealed that during both the years of study, sowing dates and vermiwash sources significantly affected the yield and quality attributes. Moreover, sunflower planting on 20th February alongside alligator weed bio-liquid @ 15% produced significantly maximum height of the plant (246 and 241 cm), stem circumference (2.36 and 2.31 cm), head circumference (18.6 and 18.2 cm), 1000- achene's weight (64.72 and 66.18 g) and achene yield (3237 and 3310 kg ha-1). This combination also significantly improved the quality traits of sunflower like achene oil contents (50.79 and 49.89%), protein contents (19.67 and 19.32%), oleic acid (30.99 and 30.44%)) and linoleic acid contents (59.94 and 58.88%). It can be concluded from the study that sunflower planting on 20th February with bio-liquid alligator (Alternanthra) weed 15% exhibited maximum morphological and quality performance of sunflower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]