The yield of mechanically harvested rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) can be increased by optimum plant density and row spacing

• DOI: 10.1038/srep18835
• Publication Date: 2015-12-21T11:14:12Z
• Authors: Jie Kuai; Yingying Sun; Qingsong Zuo; Haidong Huang; Qingxi Liao; Chongyou Wu; Jianwei Lu; Jiangsheng Wu; Guangsheng Zhou
• Keywords: Hectare; Plant Density

Abstract To determine the effects of plant density and row spacing on mechanical harvesting rapeseed ( Brassica napus L.), field experiments were conducted. Higher produced fewer pods reduced yield per plant. Wider at higher densities increased seeds pod 1000-seed weight, resulting in a The highest yields achieved 45 × 10 4 plants ha −1 (D45) combination with 15 cm (R15) because mortality associated competition as both increased. leaf area index (LAI) (PAI) showed similar relations to hectare they positively correlated percentage intercepted light, whereas radiation use efficiency (RUE) was population biomass. Reduced height root/shoot ratios led decreased culm lodging index. Improved resistance shattering also observed angle lowest 5 branches under D30 D45. All these structural changes influenced operations, mechanically D45R15.