Project-3: Identifying the cropping patterns appropriate for different land classes

Project-3: Identifying the cropping patterns appropriate for different
land classes

Introduction:
The status of any land mass depends on its morphological, physical and chemical properties. Based on these properties we designate the capability classes of any land for its use in agriculture. Cropping intensity, type of crops in the sequence, irrigated or rainfed, fertilizer and tillage management depends on the land capability class. The cropping pattern also depends on the agro-climatic status of the region where the land is situated. Thus for effective production from any land mass we have to search for suitable cropping system.

Objectives:
i) Identifying the existing second crop and land type of any locality
ii) Grow all possible second crops feasible for a particular soil type.
iii) Screen the most suitable second crop

Methodology:

1. Selection of land area
2. Characterization of the area for agricultural use
3. Identify the existing crop pattern/s on the area
4. Select the group of second crops to be tested
5. Present yield level of second crops
6. Comparison of yield potential and the soil quality attributes
7. Establishing relationship between crop/s yield and different land characteristics
8. Develop criteria for crop selection

Experimental
(i) Collection of information about the study area, that includes land history, rainfall status, nature of cultivation, nature of soil, availability of water, groundwater status etc.
(ii) Explore the nature and type of vegetation on the existing system
(iii) Establish the criteria for crop selection
(iv) Grow various types of crops in the sequence after a common first crop
(v) Record the crop yield and compare it with various land characteristics
(vi) Select the second crop on the basis of yield and economic return

Practical Utility:
The project will help to establish criteria for selection of second crop for various land classes

Future scope of Research:
i) Specify the area of crop coverage under diversified cropping.
ii) Identify the cropping pattern appropriate for specific land classes.