Optimum size and shape of plots in field experiments with cashew

Abstract

The data from a uniformity trial were analysed to find the optimum size and shape of plots and blocks. Considerable variability was observed in the yields of trees eventhough they were raised from the same parental stock. The relative percentage information was found to be maximum in single tree plots both in the case when the plots are arranged in blocks and when they are not arranged. Thus single tree plots could be recom.nended as optimum for conducting field experiments on cashew. In order to avoid enhanced chance of loss in information with single tree plots as an alternative suggestion two tree plots could also be used for conducting field experiments on cashew. It was observed that two plot blocks were the most efficient for conducting field experiments on cashew. The Fair Field Smith's equation gave a good fit to the data on the 2 cases when the plots are arranged in blocks and not arranged. The relatively high value of the parameter 'b' indicated that genotypic variation was more predominant than positional variation.