Oilseed Brassica Species Diversification and Crop Geometry Influence the Productivity, Economics, and Environmental Footprints under Semi-Arid Regions

Abstract

The article presents the findings of three-year field experiments conducted during 2017–2020 on the productivity, economics, and environmental footprints of the oilseed Brassica (OSB) with species diversification and crop geometry alterations in semi-arid regions of India. The objectives of the field experimentation was to assess the system of mustard intensification (SMI) in enhancing productivity and profitability with ensuring fewer environmental footprints. The results revealed that Brassica carinata gave a maximum seed productivity (3173.8 kg ha−1) and net returns (USS 11,417.2 ha−1) under a crop geometry of 60 cm × 60 cm. Further, an increase of 38% and 54% in seed yield and net returns from B. carinata was observed over the existing traditional Brassica juncea with conventional crop geometry. The maximum energy output was also recorded from B. carinata (246,445 MJ ha−1). The broader crop geometry (60 cm × 60 cm) also resulted in maximum energy output. The environmental footprint was lesser due to increased carbon gain (CG), carbon output (CO), and carbon production efficiency (CPE) and lower greenhouse gas intensity (GHGi) in B. carinata. However, the maximum water-use efficiency (WUE) was recorded in B. juncea (19.15 kg per ha-mm), with a minimum water footprint (WFP), whereas, greater crop geometry (60 cm × 60 cm) resulted in lower WFPs and better irrigation water use. Enhanced seed yield, economics, and fewer environmental footprints were observed at broader crop geometry in B. carinata over remaining OSBs.

Development of non‐destructive models to predict oil content and fatty acid composition of Gomenzer (Ethiopian mustard) using near‐infrared reflectance spectroscopy

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“…Mustard is a worldwide significant oilseed crop; therefore, studying the genetic diversity of different germplasm collections is crucial for its genetic improvement 2 . It is an important edible oil crop, broadly includes rapeseed and mustards which are used as a food, especially in the arid and semi‐arid areas 3,4 . In addition, rapeseed is used to substitute for fossil diesel fuel.…”

Primary multistep phosphorelay activation comprises both cytokinin and abiotic stress responses in Brassicaceae

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Re-visiting of nitrogen and sulphur requirements in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) under irrigated conditions

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