Year: 1994
Type: article
Abstract: I used a multidisciplinary, multiyear experiment to investigate the effect of interactive application of inputs on growth, productivity, and returns of three mature Washington navel oranges [Citrus sinensis (L.) Obseck] grown on rough lemon rootstock. Seventy-two combinations [made up of three levels of irrigation, two levels of fungicides/nematicides (+/-), two levels of miticides (+/-), two levels of growth regulators (+ /-), and three levels of N fertilizer] were investigated. The productivity measures indicated statistically significant interactive effects in some cases and only main effects with others. However, knowledge of significant treatment effects in one or the other productivity parameters would not have provided a complete picture to the end user without the economic analysis. Using a partial budgeting procedure, returns (after costs) were calculated for each treatment combination. Statistical analyses of variance also were performed to test for significant differences of productivity, crop value, and returns among the treatments and interactions. The results indicate that returns after costs were higher for the + fungicide-nematicide treatment and also were high with increased irrigation. However, the various treatments and their significant roles in productivity and returns are discussed. Also, the impact of water cost increases are analyzed.
Source: HortScience
Author: E. Takele
Institution: Utah State University
Language: English
Subfield: Soil Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2467268533