Optimizing sowing window for wheat cultivation in Bangladesh using CERES-wheat crop simulation model

Sowing date is a crucial factor for wheat (Triticum estivum L.) production. From traditional field experiments, optimum sowing date for wheat cultivation could be found out based on existing weather and soil conditions but not possible for futuristic sowing window to address climate change impacts. Crop simulation model can play an important role in this regards. So, a study was conducted at Regional Wheat Research Centre (RWRC), Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), Gazipur, Bangladesh to evaluate the CERES-wheat crop model in simulating optimum sowing window for wheat. Thirteen sowing dates starting from 21 October to 20 December at five days interval were tested with wheat cultivar BARI Gom-26. The model was calibrated and validated with one field experimental data followed by 30 years seasonal runs. Optimum sowing window for wheat is 15 November-30 November in Bangladesh. On an average, grain yield of wheat was reduced by 30-40 kg day−1 ha−1 when sown from 1 December to 20 December. Similarly, grain yield reduction was about 148-102 kg day−1 ha−1 with early sown wheat (21 October-14 November).