Performance of Planting Methods of Gobhi Sarson in Pigeonpea-Gobhi Sarson Cropping System in Sub-tropical Zone

The study evaluated the performance of different planting methods of Gobhi sarson in the pigeonpea-Gobhi sarson cropping system to identify the most effective establishment technique. The study was conducted during Rabi 2023-24 and 2024-25 at PAU, Ludhiana, using a randomized complete block design with three planting methods- relay cropping, direct seeding and transplanting. Planting methods significantly influenced growth and yield. Relay cropping performed best due to early establishment, better plant stand and efficient use of residual moisture, resulting in higher growth vigour and superior yield attributes. Direct seeding showed moderate performance, while transplanting exhibited comparatively lower growth and yield. Overall, relay cropping proved most suitable for maximizing productivity. The growth, yield attributes and yield of Gobhi sarson were significantly affected by pigeonpea-based cropping systems. Relay cropping systems (pigeonpea + cowpea - Gobhi sarson - summer moong) recorded highest growth traits (plant height, dry matter accumulation and LAI), owing to better moisture conservation, improved soil structure and residual fertility from preceding legumes. Relay cropping also enhanced yield attributes, including number of siliquae plant-1 and seeds siliquae-1, while test weight remained non-significant. The highest seed yield was obtained in pigeonpea (AL 882) + cowpea (F) - Gobhi sarson (relay cropping) - summer Moong (24.26 q ha-1), statistically at par with T1 (24.13 q ha-1), but significantly higher than direct-seeded and transplanted treatments. Improved yield under relay cropping resulted from timely establishment, better plant stand, efficient resource use and an extended effective growth period. Overall, relay cropping proved to be the most suitable, efficient and sustainable establishment method for maximizing productivity of Gobhi sarson in pigeonpea-based cropping systems, followed by direct seeding and transplanting.