Crop suitability analysis by adopting geo-spatial algorithm: a case study of Sirajganj district (flood-prone area) in Bangladesh

Purpose Crop suitability analysis is vital for identifying a piece of land’s potential sustainable crop production and aids in the formulation an effective agricultural management plan. This study aims to conduct prominent Kharif (rice maize) Rabi (potato wheat) crops Sirajganj district, flood-prone area Bangladesh, recommend suitable cropping pattern mitigate detrimental effects flooding. Design/methodology/approach Various factors such as soil drainage, depth, moisture, texture, permeability, pH, erosion hazard, nutrient status flooding risk were considered this study. For all four crops, weights each factor determined using analytical hierarchy process approach, scores subfactor assigned on basis favorable circumstances cultivation. Using weighted overlay ArcGIS 10.3 environment, maps generated divided into classes. Geographic information system integration seasons. Findings A vast portion covering 64.80% total land cultivating either rice or maize season followed by potato wheat season. Other seasons found are rice-wheat, rice-wheat/potato, rice/maize-wheat rice/maize-potato, which covers little area. Originality/value research validates location cultivation occurrences locality.