The objectives of this work were to determine the optimum plot size and number of repetitions, to evaluate the fresh weight of canola (Brassica napus L.). Twenty-seven uniformity trials of 5m×5m (25m2) were conducted. Each trials was divided in 25 basic experimental units (BEU) of 1m×1m, totaling 675BEU. The fresh weight of plants, in each BEU was weighed. The optimum plot size (Xo) was determined by the method of maximum curvature of the model coefficient of variation and the means compared, among hybrids, by Scott-Knott test. The number of repetitions, for experiments on completely randomized and randomized block designs, in scenarios of combinations of i treatments (i=3, 4, ..., 50) and d minimal differences between treatments means, to be detected as significant, 5% probability by Tukey test, expressed in percentage of the average of the experiment (d=10%, 12%, ..., 40%), was determined by iterative process until convergence. The optimum plot size to evaluate the fresh weight of canola is 6.41 m2. Four replications, to evaluate up to 50 treatments, in completely randomized and randomized block designs, are sufficient to identify, as significant at the 5% probability by Tukey test, differences between treatment means 41.4% of the average experiment.
Brassica napus L.; agricultural experimentation; experimental design; experimental precision