Optimizing Sowing Time and Spacing for Enhanced Seed Yield and Component Traits in BJRI Deshi Pat Shak 1 (Corchorus capsularis L.) (BJC-390)

Abstract

A field study was carried out during the 2024–2025 season at two experimental sites the Jute Agriculture Experimental Station in Manikganj and the Jute Research Regional Station in Rangpur to assess how different sowing dates and plant spacings influence the seed yield and yield-related traits of BJRI Deshi Pat Shak-1 (BJC-390). The treatments comprised three sowing dates (1st August, 11th August and 22nd August) and three spacing levels (30 cm × 20 cm, 35 cm × 20 cm, and 40 cm × 20 cm), arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Results revealed that 11th August sowing at 30 cm × 20 cm spacing produced the highest seed yield (630 kg ha⁻¹) at Rangpur, associated with the highest pod and seed numbers per plant. In contrast, the lowest seed yield (400 kg ha⁻¹) was observed in the 22nd August sowing with 40 cm × 20 cm spacing. In Manikganj, spacing and sowing dates had less pronounced effects on yield, although wider spacing (40 cm × 20 cm) combined with early sowing showed relatively higher productivity. The findings suggest that mid-August sowing combined with closer spacing is optimal for maximizing seed yield of BJRI Deshi Pat Shak-1, particularly in Rangpur agroecological conditions.