The use of crop models as decision support tools for exploring the consequences of
various management decision options that interact with weather and soil factors are
limited in Ethiopia. This study aimed to apply crop simulation CROPGRO-faba bean
model in determining site-specific crop management practices to close the yield
gaps. A total of 432 treatments consisted of four faba bean varieties with six sowing
dates, three plant populations and six nitrogen fertilizer rates were considered in the
study. Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with factorial arrangement was
used considering years as replications. There was significant variety by sowing date
interactions p 0 .05 in all locations. Grain yield was significantly affected by
variety and sowing date. Sowing on late June to early July gave a highest grain yield
with variety Gora at Hosana, Kulumsa, Meraro, and Sinana nitisols sites A plant
population of 45 plants m-2 was found to be optimal depending on the sowing date
and sites. The highest seed yield was obtained by applying 45kg ha-1 nitrogen fertilizer in most of the locations. The result showed the application of crop models in agronomic research, crop improvement and incorporation of the findings provides important information to prepare extension material and increase production on the existing crop land.
