Assessing the Sweet Corn Production Technology by Crop Models in Enhancing Sweet Corn Production Efficiency in Nakhonsawan Province

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of employing crop models to enhance sweet corn production efficiency in Nakhon Sawan Province. The research focused on developing sweet corn production technology using crop models. The methodology involved simulating sweet corn production to evaluate yields under diverse management conditions. Furthermore, critical management factors were explored using the decision tree model technique to pinpoint a technology set conducive to efficient sweet corn production. Significant adjustments involved augmenting nitrogen chemical fertilizer by 25 percent, informed by soil analysis, and ensuring alignment of phosphorus and potassium chemical fertilizers with soil analysis values. In December, planting occurred with a corn population of 8,400 plants per rai, Used ATS 12 varieties or utilizing certified commercial sweet corn varieties. Subsequently, the developed technology underwent testing with 15 farmers, comparing it against conventional farming methods. Carried out from December 2022 to February 2023 in Chum Saeng District, Nakhon Sawan Province. The results revealed statistically significant differences in sweet corn yields, with the test method yielding an average of 3,213 kilograms per rai, compared to 3,041 kilograms per rai for farmers' methods. Moreover, the test method demonstrated higher yields, with an increase of 173 kilograms per rai, representing a 5.68 percent improvement. In terms of production costs, the test method exhibited an average cost of 4,993 baht per rai, with decrease 200 baht per rai representing a 4.00 percent lower than the average farmer's method. Regarding income, the test method generated an average of 13,548 baht per rai, with an increase of 886 baht per rai marking a 6.99 percent increase compared to farmers' methods. When evaluating net income, the test method yielded an average of 8,555 baht per rai, with an increase of 1,086 baht per rai marking a 14.54 percent higher than farmers' methods. The benefic cost ratio (BCR) for the test method was 2.71, surpassing the 2.47 ratio for farmers' methods, indicative of a superior return on investment. These findings underscore the potential of crop models to optimize sweet corn production and enhance profitability for farmers in Nakhon Sawan Province.