Impact of Planting Windows on Growth, Yield and Economics of Potato Production under Climate Change Scenario in Central India

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted to study adaptation of potato to climate aberrations at Central Potato Research Station, Gwalior, India which is located in Central Plains of India. Potato cultivar Kufri Jyoti was planted with five planting windows (planting dates) viz 15^th September, 30^th September, 15^th October, 30^th October and 15^th November for two consecutive years during 2009−10 and 2010−11. Treatments were replicated four times. Early planting at higher temperature delayed tuberization, reduced tuber number (1,80,399) and finally there was drastic reduction in tuber yields (11.4 t ha^-1). Highest tuber yield (31.6 t ha^-1) was recorded with 15^th October planted crop which was significantly higher over early planting windows. Net returns were negative in 15^th and 30^th September planting windows due to reduction in tuber yields. Highest N uptake (92 kg ha^-1) was recorded with 15^th October planted crop however it was lowest with 15^th September planted crop. Highest water use efficiency (126 kg tuber/mm^-1 water) was also recorded with the same treatment because of higher tuber yield and lesser evapo-transpiration demand during crop growth period. Delayed planting of 15^th November also reduced tuber yield due to increased temperature at the active bulking period of the potato. Thus, 15^th October planting window is most suitable date for planting ware potato crop for the region to get good yield, net returns and increase input use efficiency.