Yield and economics of mustard (Brassica Juncea) as influenced by sowing time and moisture conservation practices in rainfed condition

An experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2010–11 and 2011–12 at the Research Farm, College of Agriculture Gwalior to study the effects of sowing time and moisture conservation practices on yield attributes and yield of mustard (Cv. Pusa bold). On the basis of two years data results reveled that sowing on 11th October gave significantly higher seed yield over 31st October sowing but statistically at par with 21st October. Application of moisture conservation practices (MCP) was found significantly superior to the control in terms of yield and yield attributes, among MCP paddy straw mulch resulted in higher seed yield over weeding, pearlmillet husk and grass mulch. Application of mulching @5 t/ha produced significantly higher seed yield over 2.5 t/ha at the same meterial. Highest seed yield (2440 kg/ha) and net return (Rs. 66393/ha.) and B: C ratio (3.63) were recorded with one weeding + paddy straw mulch @ 5.0 t/ha.