Trends in Biosciences

The InfoCrop model was calibrated and validated for kharif maize (cv. GS-2 and GM-3) using past experimental data (2004 to 2006) of Main Maize Research Station, Godhra, (22° 45’N 73° 36’E) A.A.U., Anand with two dates of sowing for kharif (early sowing 1^st July and normal sowing 15^th july). The phenological stages, LAI, biomass, yield and yield attributes as simulated by model were compared with the observed data. The result revealed then the model underestimated that LAI for the cultivars and overestimated rest of the parameters. The average error percent of gain yield for GS-2 as simulated by InfoCrop model was 9.69% and for cv.GM-3, it was 10.95%. Overall cv. GS-2 was shown better results as compare to cv. GM-3. The simulation result of growth and yield of both the cultivars under different environmental condition remained within the acceptable range (<15%) with significant accuracy. Hence, this model can be used for various decision support system and altering various management option for suitable maize production. Model can also be used for various types of climate change study.