Irrigation Management of Mustard.

Mustard (Brassica spp.) yield and quality are affected by temperature and moisture. Little can be done to change temperature on field-scale plantings. Available moisture can be changed under irrigation. Anecdotal evidence by mustard farmers suggests differences in crop quality and yield when irrigation has been manipulated at different plant growth stages but nobody has validated these observations. This research will attempt to provide guidance for mustard growers regarding timing of irrigation water to minimize excessive vegetative growth while maximizing yield. Soil water will be maintained by sprinkler irrigation at optimal levels up to different growth stages then will be reduced to 50% of field capacity until the onset of the next growth stage then again irrigated optimally. The four treatments include: 1. control with no water stress anytime during the season 2. stress during rosette 3. stress during bud stage 4. stress during flowering. Yield and quality will be assessed throughout the season.