Influence of Planting Distance and Seedling Age on the Performance of Chia (Salvia hispanica) in La Trinidad

Abstract

The study was conducted at the Benguet State University Department of Agronomy Experimental Station, La Trinidad, Benguet to: determine the appropriate planting distance for chia production in terms of yield and profitability; determine the appropriate seedling age for chia production; determine the interaction of planting distance and seedling age on the growth and yield of chia; and to determine the profitability of chia production influenced by planting distance and seedling age in La Trinidad, Benguet. Planting distance of 30 cm results to highest total yield and profitability. Seedling age of 21 days is the best seedling age due to tallest plant at maturity, highest number of branches and highest seed yield. There was no significant interaction effect observed between seedling age and planting distance on the growth and yield of chia. Generally, all the treatments used resulted in high return on cash expense. However, seedling age of 21 days spaced at 30 cm obtained the highest profitability under La Trinidad condition.