Productivity and Profitability of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) as Influenced by Sowing Dates, Irrigation Schedules and Nitrogen Levels

Abstract

Background: Agronomic management practices, particularly sowing time, irrigation scheduling and nitrogen application, have a significant impact on wheat productivity and profitability. The present study was conducted to investigate the combined effects of these factors on the growth, yield and economic performance of wheat. Methods: Field investigations were undertaken during the rabi season of 2020-21 at the Crop Research Farm, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The trial was arranged in a split-plot design with three replications involving two sowing dates (20 November and 20 December), three irrigation regimes and three nitrogen doses (80, 120 and 160 kg N ha-1). Result: Earlier sowing on 20 November resulted in better crop growth and higher productivity than sowing on 20 December. Irrigation supplied at CRI, tillering, booting and milking stages (I3) achieved the highest grain production (3.36 t ha-1). Similarly, application of 160 kg N ha-1 (N3) produced the greatest grain yield (3.41 t ha-1) and biological yield (7.96 t ha-1). The treatment combination D1I3N3 generated the maximum net income (₹ 47,777 ha-1) and benefit-cost ratio (2.19). Overall, appropriate sowing time, sufficient irrigation and higher nitrogen availability contributed to enhanced crop performance and economic returns.