Abstract :
ABSTRACT: Sustainable development in sunflower production is an issue of growing concern. In order to study the effect of conservation tillage on energy consumption and sunflower yield in Kalpoush dryland region of Shahrood, this research was conducted. The experimental design was RCBD with 5 replications and 4 treatments. The treatments were no-tillage (T1), minimum tillage (T2) and two conventional tillage with and without gathering residue (T3 and T4). Results showed that Only at the 0-10cm of Soil depth, moisture difference was significant. Sunflower yield difference was significant (P < 1%). Maximum and minimum of crop yield was related to T2 and T4 respectively. Sunflower yield difference in T2 and T1 wasnʹt significant. Also maximum and minimum of energy efficiency and energy productivity were related to T2 and T4 respectively. Also, maximum and minimum of energy intensity was related to T4 and T2 respectively. Regarding disk harrow advantages (residue maintain on soil surface and energy saving) and results of this experiment, For sunflower production (dryland), it may be recommended that, plowing can be replaced by disk harrow. Disking for seedbed preparation is sufficient, and plowing isn’t required.
