The planting density effect on wheat yield structure

Abstract

 The importance of an efficient planting in wheat production technology is associated with the seed quality, date and method of planting, planting depth and density. Optima have been determined for almost all the factors mentioned, but there are always certain dilemmas regarding wheat planting density. The creation of new varieties requires determination of their reaction to crop density which should be performed in a number of sites due to the microclimate specificity in different wheat growing regions and in combination with other cultivation practice elements. Optimal seed rates per unit of area have a direct effect on plant spacing with the sown area being most rationally utilized and the plants being provided with adequate growth and development conditions.

Two Novi Sad wheat varieties, Yugoslavia and Rana Niska, sown at five different densities of 300, 450, 600, 750 and 900 germinating kernels per m². For the purpose of certain theoretical explanations, apart from the planting densities most commonly employed ranging from 450 to 750 germ. kern./m², the investigation included those of 300 and 900 germ. kern./m². 

In all the three research years, with the planting density increase the number of spikes also increased. However, the spikes obtained at higher planting densities had a smaller kernel number and lower 1000-kernel weight values. In the first research year, compared to the years to follow, the highest yield was obtained, coupled with the largest kernel number per spike and greatest 1000-kernel weight.

The planting density of the examined winter wheat varieties, at an optimal planting date, should amount to 600 germinating kernels per m2, thus producing a sufficient number of good-quality spikes with adequate yield structure. By solving the regression equations, the results were confirmed by the regression analysis of planting density for a maximum grain yield.