Yield, water use efficiency and economics of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) as influenced by different lateral spacing with drip irrigation and nitrogen levels

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted at the Regional Research Station, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat during rabi season of 2015-16. The experiment comprised of eight treatment combinations with four lateral spacings (drip at 60, 80 and 120 cm and conventional method) and two levels of nitrogen (100% and 75% RDN). The field experiment was laid out in a split plot design with four replications. Grain and straw yields were significantly higher in lateral spacing of 60 cm over rest of the treatments but, it was at par with 80 cm lateral spacing. Water use efficiency was highest under spacing of 60 cm. Highest BCR was obtained with lateral spacing of 80 cm closely followed by 60 cm lateral spacing. Non-significant influence of nitrogen levels was found on yields. Higher water use efficiency, net realization and BCR were obtained with 100% RDN.