| Scenario | Area | Plants | Model | Assumptions | Estimated net yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raised beds, fruit model | 9.6 m2 | ~35 | Fruit count × weight | 18 fruits, 85 g avg, 90% survival, 7% loss | ~4.99 kg to 6.75 kg |
| Leafy greens, per area | 5.0 m2 | — | Per area yield | 2.8 kg/m2, 95% survival, 5% loss, 1 cycle | ~12.60 kg ± 10% |
| Peppers, per plant | — | 20 | Per plant yield | 1.4 kg/plant, 85% survival, 8% loss, 1 cycle | ~21.95 kg ± 15% |
- Per plant model: Base yield = plants × yield_per_plant × cycles.
- Per area model: Base yield = area_m2 × yield_per_m2 × cycles.
- Fruit model: Base yield = plants × fruits_per_plant × (avg_weight_g ÷ 1000) × cycles.
- Choose the estimation mode based on what you already know.
- Enter area directly, or calculate it from bed dimensions.
- Add plant count, or provide spacing to estimate plant count.
- Fill in the model parameters for your selected mode.
- Adjust survival, loss, and range to match your conditions.
- Press “Estimate Yield” to view results under the header.
- Download CSV or PDF to save and share your numbers.
Planting density and area conversion
Accurate yield starts with a consistent area. The calculator converts ft2, yd2, acres, and hectares into m2, then derives plant capacity from row and plant spacing. Example: 60 cm rows and 45 cm in-row spacing equal 1/(0.60×0.45)=3.70 plants per m2. On 9.6 m2, that is about 35 plants, enabling repeatable comparisons between beds and seasons.
Choosing a yield model from records
Use the model that matches what you measure. Per-plant suits notes like “1.6 kg per plant per cycle.” Per-area fits trials such as “3.5 kg per m2 per cycle.” Fruit-count helps when you track harvest units: plants × fruits per plant × average fruit weight. All models convert to a base yield in kg, then apply harvest cycles for successive flushes.
Risk adjustments for realistic harvests
Field results rarely match perfect conditions, so the calculator applies two loss layers. Survival rate accounts for germination, transplant shock, and early disease; post-harvest loss covers pests, rot, and grading. If base yield is 50 kg, 90% survival and 7% loss produce 50×0.90×0.93=41.85 kg net. This makes targets achievable.
Variability range and weekly scheduling
Weather swings and management differences introduce spread, so the calculator builds a variability band around net yield. With a 15% range, 41.85 kg becomes 35.57 to 48.13 kg. Set the range wider for new crops or uncertain irrigation, and narrower for controlled systems. Divide net yield by harvest weeks to forecast weekly picking, labor, storage capacity, and delivery cadence.
Interpreting efficiency indicators and value
Net yield per m2 highlights bed performance and helps compare varieties, pruning, and feeding strategies. Yield per plant per cycle shows whether spacing is too tight or too wide. Optional pricing converts the net yield into revenue using your price per kg, lb, or g, without exchange rates. Use this to set market goals, plan preservation, and justify inputs.
Which mode should I use first?
Start with the mode you can validate. If you track harvest weight per plant, choose per-plant. If you have plot trial results, choose per-area. If you count fruits and weigh samples, use the fruit model.
Why does the net yield look lower than my base estimate?
Net yield applies survival rate and post-harvest loss. It reflects real losses from establishment issues, pests, rot, and grading. Adjust both rates to match your crop and local conditions.
Can I estimate plant count automatically?
Yes. Leave plant count blank and enter row spacing and plant spacing in centimeters. The calculator estimates plants per square meter and multiplies by your total area.
How should I pick the variability range?
Use 10–15% for stable conditions and familiar crops. Use 20–30% for new varieties, inconsistent watering, or disease pressure. Reduce the range only when you have several seasons of records.
What does harvest cycles mean?
Cycles multiply the base yield when you expect distinct harvest rounds, replantings, or repeated flushes. For single-season crops, keep cycles at 1. For quick greens with multiple cuts, use a higher value.
Does the value estimate include exchange rates?
No. It multiplies your net yield by your entered price per kg, lb, or g and displays the chosen currency label. If you need currency conversion, adjust the price input accordingly.