CSM-CSCRP-Cassava Evaluation of the potential of the CSM-CSCRP-Cassava model

Abstract

The application of crop growth simulation model for cassava (CSM-CSCRP-Cassava) to determine the suitable technologies for cassava production in a particular area is an alternative means to increasing cassava productivity. However, before using the model, it is necessary to evaluate its potential capability first. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of the CSM-CSCRP-Cassava model. Three cassava cultivars (Rayong 9, Kasetsart 50 and Huay Bong 80) were grown on 27 November 2009 (early dry season), 3 April 2010 (late dry season) and 10 July 2010 (mid-rainy season) at the Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University. A randomized complete block (RCB) design with three replications was used. Plot size was 180 m2 and plant spacing was 1 m × 1 m. Data  were recorded on soil, weather, management and plant characteristics for each planting date. The genetic coefficients of the three cassava cultivars were determined using the experimental data from the early and the late dry seasons. The results from genetic coefficient determination showed that the CSM-CSCRP-Cassava model could simulate days to primary branching for both planting dates reasonably well. The model also provided good simulations of total dry weight, stem dry weight, root dry weight and leaf dry weight. For the results of model evaluation using the experimental data from the mid-rainy season, the model provided good simulations for total and root dry weights, and gave fair simulations for stem and leaf dry weights. These results indicated that the CSM-CSCRP-Cassava model could be an alternative tool for decision making in agriculture under the environments of Thailand.