maize, energy saving, direct drilling, gross margin analysis
Abstract
The performance parameters, energetic characteristics and cost factors of direct drilling were evaluated by longterm
trials carried out in Osztopán and Gödöllő regions. The effect of direct drilling, disking, ploughing, and
soil loosening combined with disking and ploughing on the soil conditions, yields and cost factors was
evaluated and based on the examination results. The economic comparisons were done by gross margin
analyses of various technologies. Reducing the number of field applications is limited by the risk of soil
compactions and weed infestations. From an economic part of view cost saving aspects of the various
cultivation methods mentioned above cannot be justified in comparison with the ploughing methods. The lowest
gross margin value was 61.79 EUR t-1, direct drilling and the highest was 67.34 EUR t-1, with ploughing but it
was due to the great difference between the yield as well (6.89 and 4.03 t.ha-1).
The results we achieved during our research are valid only in the given conditions, they could be recalculated
and complemented under other soil and agro-ecological conditions. Our purpose was to emphasise the necessity
of economical calculations before making decisions on changing technology. Our suggestion is: combined
application of the traditional and energy saving methods, regarding the local conditions as well.
