ohjauslohkoja

Ohjauslohkoja are reference plots used in field experiments to provide a baseline for comparing treatments. An ohjauslohko is the plot where no new experimental treatment is applied, or where standard farming practice is maintained, so that the effects of the tested treatments on nearby plots can be measured against a realistic baseline. They are essential in studies aiming to quantify differences in yield, quality, pest pressure, or soil properties attributable to the treatments under study.

Placement and design are focused on comparability with the experimental plots. Ohjauslohkoja are located in the same field and arranged to experience similar soil conditions, slope, and microclimate. They are often part of randomized block designs and may be replicated across blocks to provide reliable references. In some trials, several control plots may represent different standard practices.

Management of ohjauslohkoja is kept consistent with ordinary farm practice and they are not subjected to the new inputs or management changes being tested. This helps ensure that observed differences arise from the experimental treatments rather than from deviations in standard management.

Data collected from ohjauslohkoja commonly include yield, quality metrics, soil nutrient status, moisture, and pest or disease indicators. Such data form a baseline for estimating treatment effects and for adjusting results to reflect environmental variation, aiding interpretation for practical agricultural use.

The term ohjauslohko (plural ohjauslohkoja) is Finnish and translates roughly to control or reference plot. It is widely used in agronomic research in Finland and other Nordic contexts.