Maximizing castor yield through drip irrigation and nitrogen under different planting geometries in sandy clay loam soil

An experiment was conducted on sandy clay loam soil of Agricultural Research Station for irrigated crops, Anand Agricultural University, Thasra, Gujarat during late kharif season of the year 2006-07 and 2007-08 in order to maximize castor yield through drip irrigation and nitrogen levels under different plant geometries. Higher values of seed yield and yield attributing characters were recorded under pair row planting (180-60-180 cm) x 60 cm as compared to the normal planting (120 x 60 cm). Irrigation at 0.8 alternate day fraction pan evaporation (ADFPE) through drip recorded the highest growth and yield attributes and castor yield. Application of 100% RDN through fertigation produced significantly the highest castor yield. Castor crop sown through pair row planting (180-60-180) x 60 cm apart and irrigated through drip at 0.8 ADFPE in conjunction with nitrogen fertigation @ 100% recommended dose (30% basal and 70% in four equal splits at one month interval).