What does "harvest index" measure in yield analysis?

Harvest index is a critical metric in yield analysis as it represents the proportion of a crop's yield compared to its total biomass. Specifically, it is calculated by dividing the weight of the harvested product (usually the edible portion of the plant) by the total biomass produced by that crop during the growing season. This measurement provides insights into how effectively a plant converts its total biological mass into the desired harvestable product.

A high harvest index indicates that a greater proportion of biomass is being allocated to the yield, which reflects efficient resource use and productive crop performance. In contrast, a low harvest index may suggest that a significant amount of biomass is being utilized for vegetative growth rather than grain or fruit production. Hence, the harvest index is a valuable tool in evaluating crop productivity and optimizing agricultural practices for better yield outcomes.