Crop physiological considerations for combining variable-density planting to optimize seed costs and weed suppression

Abstract High crop densities are valuable to increase weed suppression, but growers might be reluctant implement this practice due increased seed cost. Because it is also possible lower planting in areas with no or low interference risk, the area allocated each density must optimized considering cost and productivity per plant. In study, growth yield of maize ( Zea mays L.), cotton Gossypium hirsutum soybean [ Glycine max (L.) Merr.] were characterized response arrangements. The results used develop a bioeconomic model optimize devoted high- low-density plantings suppression without increasing Physiological differences seen varied tested; however, was only that had (per area) between densities. When high used, showed most plasticity planted (g −1 ) compensate for high-density unit. Maize grown at 75% compared high-planting (200%) by 229%, return 43%, profit 79% while decreasing needed area. Cotton 25% 200% 1,099%, 46%, 62% contrast, morphological did not translate into changes optimization, as maintained return, profit, 1:1 ratio compensation. This optimization could allow use variable large scales minimizing costs producers.