Energy and economic efficiency of different technological schemes of sunflower cultivation in the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine
Abstract
Purpose. The aim of the study was to assess the economic and energy efficiency of different technological schemes of sunflower cultivation in the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine and to determine the optimal combinations of hybrids and tillage systems for improving productivity, reducing resource costs, and increasing production profitability. Methods. The study employed field experiments conducted during 2022–2024 using three sunflower hybrids (H4LM409, N4H470, H4X302E) and three tillage systems: conventional plowing at 25–27 cm, minimum tillage at 10–12 cm, and the energy-saving no-till system with direct seeding. Yield, 1000-seed weight, and head diameter were determined using standard methods.Economic efficiency was evaluated based on the cost price per unit of output, gross production, conditional net profit, and profitability. Energy efficiency was analyzed by calculating energy consumption per hectare and per ton of production, energy gain, and energy efficiency ratio.Results. The findings showed that the conventional tillage system ensured the highest yields for all hybrids: H4LM409 – 2.53 t/ha, N4H470 – 2.48 t/ha, H4X302E – 2.44 t/ha. Minimum tillage-maintained yields at nearly the same level (2.40–2.45 t/ha), while reducing production costs by 12–15 % compared to conventional tillage. The no-till system provided the lowest yield, particularly for the less adapted hybrid H4X302E (2.38 t/ha), but demonstrated the highest energy efficiency ratio (1.56) and a high level of profitability – up to 462 %, due to significant reductions in energy consumption and labor costs.Conclusions. The study indicates that the choice of tillage technology is a key factor in balancing productivity, economic expenditures, and energy resources. Minimum tillage ensures an optimal balance of yield, economic efficiency, and energy savings, while the no-till system is the most resource-conserving but requires the selection of well-adapted hybrids. The results can be used for decision-making in crop rotation planning, hybrid selection, and the implementation of resource-efficient technologies in sunflower production in the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine.
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