Plant Productions

Effect of Drought Stress on Photosynthetic Parameters, Yield and Yield Components of Tropical Alfalfa Genotypes

Ahmad Ali Shoushi Dezfuli; Mohammad khorramian; Ali Assareh

Volume 44, Issue 4 , December 2021, , Pages 545-558

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2021.35110.1942

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionWater resources limitation and plant stress due to water shortage is one of the important and common environmental stresses in agricultural production, including ... Read More AbstractIntroductionWater resources limitation and plant stress due to water shortage is one of the important and common environmental stresses in agricultural production, including forage production in hot and dry areas. Therefore, the selection and development of drought-tolerant cultivars are very important. In irrigated lands of Iran, the average of irrigation efficiency is 37% and water productivity is 0.8 kg per cubic meters, which is lower than the world average. For increasing water efficiency, maintaining the production capacity and creating sustainable agriculture, it is necessary to identify the effective factors on the reduction of irrigation water productivity and provide an appropriate solution. In arid regions such as Khuzestan province, by using both a proper irrigation program and irrigation levels below the water requirement, obtaining an acceptable yield of alfalfa could be expected. In order to achieve these objectives, determination of the irrigation water productivity of tropical alfalfa cultivars and their drought tolerance under different irrigation regimes were the main aims of this study. Materials and MethodsFor evaluating tropical alfalfa genotypes under different drought stresses, an experiment was carried out based on split plots design with three replications in Safiabad Agricultural Research Center, Dezful, Iran, during 2019-2020. The main factor was four levels of irrigation (25, 50, 75 and 100% of water requirement) and the second factor was five alfalfa cultivars (Baghdadi, Nikshahri, Yazdi, Mesasirsa, and Omid). In this experiments, plant characteristics including dry and wet forage yield, percentage of dry forage, leaf to stem weight ratio, chlorophyll index (SPAD), electrolyte leakage from the leaf cell membrane (EL), relative leaf water content (RWC), and Maximum quantum yield in the dark-adapted conditions (ΦPSɪɪ) were determined. Results and DiscussionThe results revealed that by applying drought stress, wet and dry forage yields, RWC, and ΦPSɪɪ decreased but the percentage of dry forage, leaf to stem weight ratio, EL, and SPAD increased. Among the studied genotypes, the Baghdadi genotype had the highest dry forage yield in all situations; non-stress conditions (16.9 t/ha), mild drought stress (15.094 t/ha), moderate drought stress (9.58 t/ha) and severe drought stress (4.664 t/ha). The Yazdi genotype had the lowest dry forage yield; 9.9, 9.7, 5.7 and 3.6 t/ha for non-stress, mild, moderate, and severe drought stresses conditions, respectively. In our experiment, the Baghdadi genotype showed a high-stress tolerance index (STI) and we highly recommend planting it in the north of Khuzestan province, but the Yazdi alfalfa genotype despite low dry forage yield under both non-stress and drought stress conditions is not recommended due to low production. We suggest using Yazdi genotype in eugenic plans due to high yield stability index (YSI) under drought stress conditions and having some favorable physiological and photosynthetic parameters associated with drought stress tolerance. ConclusionIn this study, Baghdadi alfalfa cultivar was identified as a desirable cultivar in tropical regions of Iran such as Khuzestan. Yazdi alfalfa cultivar had favorable physiological and photosynthetic components. Thus, it can be used as a favorable parent in breeding programs such as synthetic alfalfa production (through the transfer of genes associated with drought stress tolerance).

Identification of Effective Traits on Forage Yield in Tall Fescue (Festuca Arundinacea Schreb.)

Ehsan Rahimi; Reza Mohammadi; Alireza Pourmohammad; Ali Asghar Aliloo

Volume 43, Issue 3 , November 2020, , Pages 419-430

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2019.28151.1704

Abstract

Abstract Background and Objectives Introduction of high yielding forage cultivars for different climates is necessary to use in pasture establishment and rangeland renovation. ... Read More Abstract Background and Objectives Introduction of high yielding forage cultivars for different climates is necessary to use in pasture establishment and rangeland renovation. Thus, increasing forage yield is one of the most important goals in cool-season grass breeding programs. Tall fescue (Festuca Arundinacea Schreb.) is a perennial cool-season grass adapted to a wide range of growing conditions. Tall fescue is one of the most drought, heat, and wear tolerant species among perennial cool-season grasses. Due to its large and deep root system, it is able to take up water in dry periods when other grasses have stopped their growth. Then it could be a good choice for pasture establishment and rangeland renovation in Iran. This study was carried out to identify important traits which are effective to increase forage yield in the tall fescue in East Azarbaijan region of Iran. Materials and Methods For this purpose, 32 tall fescue genotypes were evaluated in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 4 replications in research farm of Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute of Northwest and West region of Iran- Tabriz in 2016. Each replication contained 5 spaced single plants 60 cm apart. Eleven agro-morphological characteristics were measured. Results The correlation coefficients showed that total dry forage yield and seed yield had significant and positive correlation with all traits except days to heading and days to pollination. Total dry forage yield had significant and positive correlation with plant height, canopy diameter, stem number, and crown diameter (0.650**, 0.763**, 0.500**, and 0.750**, respectively). Stepwise regression analysis, considering the total dry forage yield as the dependent variable, showed that canopy diameter and crown diameter were entered into the model. These traits in total justified 64.1 percent of the regression model changed. Moreover, stepwise regression analysis, considering the seed yield as the dependent variable, showed that total dry forage yield, stem number, and canopy diameter were entered into the model. According to the results, canopy diameter (0.453) and crown diameter (0.394) had highest direct effects on the total dry forage yield and for the seed yield, total dry forage yield (0.797) and stem number (0.423) had highest direct effects. Discussion Based on the results of this study, canopy diameter and crown diameter had greater relative importance in determining the total dry forage yield of tall fescue. Thus, plant canopy and crown diameter cold be used as an indicator in selection of best tall fescue genotypes in breeding programs.

The Effects of Biological and Chemical Nitrogen Fertilizers and Iron Micronutrient on Forge Quality and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.)

Hoda Mohammadi; Gholamreza Heidari; Yousef Sohrabi

Volume 43, Issue 2 , September 2020, , Pages 185-198

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2019.27736.1678

Abstract

Abstract Background and ObjectivesImproving forage yield and quality is a major concern for the producer. Sustainable crop production requires careful management of all nutrient ... Read More Abstract Background and ObjectivesImproving forage yield and quality is a major concern for the producer. Sustainable crop production requires careful management of all nutrient sources in agroecosystems. Biological fertilizers, including Azospirilum, Azotobacter, Bacillus and Pseudomonas bacteria, can increase plant growth and yield through biological nitrogen fixation and increased solubility of macro elements such as phosphorus. Iron is the most important micro element for crops. Iron is required to perform many plant metabolism and growth activities. The experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of biological fertilizers combined with chemical fertilizers and iron micro element on yield and quality of maize (MV 500 cultivar) forage. Materials and MethodsThe experiment was conducted as a split plot based on randomized complete block design with three replications. The main plots consisted of different levels of urea fertilizer: Nitrokara biofertilizer, 150 kgha-1 urea + Nitrokara biofertilizer (Azorhizobium caulinodans), Super Nitro Plus biofertilizer (Azospirillum, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas fluorescens), Super Nitro Plus biofertilizer + 150 kgha-1 urea without nitrogen fertilizer 450 kgha-1 urea, Nitrokara biofertilizer +300 kgha-1 urea, and Super Nitro Plus biofertilizer + 300 kgha-1 urea. The subplots consisted of two iron levels, including 10 kgha-1 iron chelate (Fe EDTA) and without iron application. The measured traits were crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, ash, leaf to shoot ratio, ear to plant ratio and forage yield. Data were analyzed using MSTATC software. ResultsAnalysis of variance showed that the interaction effects of nitrogen fertilizer sources and iron levels were significant on crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, ash, ear/plant ratio and forage yield. The highest crude protein and ash of maize forage were obtained from supernitroplus + 300 kgha-1 urea and iron application. Control treatment (without nitrogen and iron fertilizers) produced the most ADF and NDF values. The highest dry forage yield belonged to Super Nitro Plus + 300 kgha-1 urea with iron fertilizer and the lowest value obtained from control treatment without N and iron fertilizers. DiscussionThe results of this study showed that the combined application of supernitroplus biofertilizer and urea fertilizer along with iron micro element increased maize forage quality and yield compared to the sole application of urea chemical fertilizer. Microorganisms constituting biofertilizers are very benefitial to the plant. They have the ability to enhance plant growth through increasing nutrient availability and uptake with minimal contribution to the environmental pollution, unlike the use of pure mineral fertilizers. The integration of biofertilizers and moderate mineral N fertilizer application accompanied with iron micro element is highly recommended in the production of maize forage.

Comparison of Direct Seeding and Transplanting Systems in Maize (Zea Mays L.) Under The Usual and Early Planting Dates

Zh. Zaraei; H. Heidari; I. Nosratti; M. Khoramivafa

Volume 41, Issue 1 , June 2018, , Pages 97-108

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2018.13553

Abstract

Abstract Background and Objectives The use of transplanting is a safe method for adequate crop establishment. Its benefits include increasing yield, reducing the growing season, improving ... Read More Abstract Background and Objectives The use of transplanting is a safe method for adequate crop establishment. Its benefits include increasing yield, reducing the growing season, improving weed control, increasing water use efficiency, improving seedling establishment and increasing crop growth rate. Transplanting increases crop yield compared with direct seeding, this compensates for more cost of transplanting. Transplanting also increases maize yield compared with direct seeding through increasing radiation use efficiency and harvest index. The experiment was aimed to assess direct seeding and transplanting system under the usual time and early planting date for achieving maximum maize seed yield and dry matter. Materials and Methods The experiment was conducted at Research Greenhouse and Field, Campus of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Razi University during two years (2015 and 2016). In the first year, factors included three planting methods (seeding, 4-week transplanting and 6-week transplanting) and two sowing dates (early sowing, common date sowing). In the second year, treatments included 6- week transplanting at early sowing (superior treatment in the first year) and seeding (control). Studied traits included plant height, leaf number, fresh weight, dry weight, stomatal conductance, SPAD, chlorophyll, leaf area, leaf relative water content and yield traits such as ear weight, ear length and diameter, seed number per ear row, row number per ear, 100-seed weight and seed yield. Data were analyzed by SAS software. Means were compared using LSD test. Results The first year results showed that early sowing increased plant height, SPAD index and specific leaf weight compared to usual sowing date. 6-week transplanting at early sowing had the highest dry matter production and leaf to stem ratio. The second year results showed that transplanting increased the leaf number, chlorophyll content, fresh and dry weight, leaf area, ear length, ear diameter, seed number per ear row, row number per ear, ear weight, seed yield, 100-seed weight and tassel weight compared to direct seeding. Discussion Yield increase in transplanting was probably due to high leaf area and plant height that plants greatly used environmental conditions such as light and water. So seed number per ear row, row number per ear and ear length were high. In conclusion, 6-week transplanting at early sowing (29 March) is suggested to achieve the highest seed yield in Kermanshah. Maize transplant ages except the ages studied in the experiment are recommended for the next experiments.

Planting Date Effect on Yield and Yield Component of Three Wheat Cultivars in Competitive With Wild Oat

M. Asadnezhad; M. Farzaneh; M. Meskarbashee

Volume 40, Issue 1 , June 2017, , Pages 55-68

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2016.12431

Abstract

Background and Objectives Wheat cultivars that have suppression potential of weeds besides high yield can be a weed management method in sustainable agriculture. Materials and Methods ... Read More Background and Objectives Wheat cultivars that have suppression potential of weeds besides high yield can be a weed management method in sustainable agriculture. Materials and Methods In order to study the competition ability of some wheat cultivar with wild oats in three planting dates, a field experiment as factorial in complete randomize blocks with three replications was carried out at the Agricultural Research Station of Shahid Chamran University in 2013-2014. In this experiment, the factors included planting dates (16th November, 1st December and 16th December), wheat cultivars (Star, Chamran and Virinak) and competition with wild oats (with wild oat, without these weeds). Results The result showed, in the competition status, Star cultivar had a higher grain yield than other cultivars in the first planting date (16th November) whereas, it had no significance different with Star and Chamran in the second planting date (1st December). When the cultivars were planted as monoculture, the highest grain yield belong to Star in the first planting date followed by the second planting data. In this condition, Virinak and Chamran in the first planting date had the lowest grain yields. Effect of the planting date on grain yield was the same trend as grain/spike; however, the high correlation with grain/spike (81%) and with thousand grains weight (59%) confirmed it. Three cultivars obtained the highest of competition index in 1st December. Although the competition and planting date resulted in decrease of grain yield, according to this investigation, the best planting date was determined 16th November and 1st December for Star cultivar. When the planting was delayed (16th December), virinak was a better choice. Discussions According to the different growth, competitive and morphological characteristics of wheat cultivars, their responses varied in different planting dates in competition against wild oats. The grain yield of Chamran, Star and Virinak cultivars decreased 27, 25 and 23 respectively by competition with wild oats. In this respect, the dry matter of planted wild oats on 1st December than the former and latter planting dates was further damaged by every three wheat cultivars (Star, Chamran and Virinak) besides higher grain yield of wheat cultivars whereas the climatic conditions of this year with previous years differed, suggesting wheat planting with short delay as an agronomy method was assayed in the different years with regard to temperature and hydrothermal effect on wild oats germination and growth in comparison with wheat.

Effect of gamma ray treatment on seed germination traits and seedling growth of Agropyron elongatum and Bromus tomentellus

A. Alizadeh; G.A. Dianati Tilaki; B. Naserian Khiabani

Volume 37, Issue 4 , March 2014, , Pages 69-77

Abstract

In this study seeds of two important rangeland species were treated with 3, 6, 15, 20, 30, 50, 100 and 150 Gy of gamma ray and its effect on germination traits was investigatedin range ... Read More

Evaluating the use of urban treated sewage and nitrogen on yield and forage production of sweet corn

M.J. Fereidooni; H. Farajee; H.R. Owliaie; A. Salehi

Volume 36, Issue 2 , September 2013, , Pages 35-47

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the interaction of urban treated sewage and nitrogen fertilizer on yield and forage production of sweet corn in research farm of Yasouj, during ... Read More

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Main Subjects = A: Forage Crops

Effect of Drought Stress on Photosynthetic Parameters, Yield and Yield Components of Tropical Alfalfa Genotypes

Abstract

Identification of Effective Traits on Forage Yield in Tall Fescue (Festuca Arundinacea Schreb.)

Abstract

The Effects of Biological and Chemical Nitrogen Fertilizers and Iron Micronutrient on Forge Quality and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

Comparison of Direct Seeding and Transplanting Systems in Maize (Zea Mays L.) Under The Usual and Early Planting Dates

Abstract

Planting Date Effect on Yield and Yield Component of Three Wheat Cultivars in Competitive With Wild Oat

Abstract

Effect of gamma ray treatment on seed germination traits and seedling growth of Agropyron elongatum and Bromus tomentellus

Abstract

Evaluating the use of urban treated sewage and nitrogen on yield and forage production of sweet corn

Abstract