Ferdowsi University of MashhadJournal Of Agroecology2008-77137320140923The analysis on of the effect of urea, iron sulfate and vermicompost fertilizers on the growth characteristics and yield of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) The city Darreh GazThe analysis on of the effect of urea, iron sulfate and vermicompost fertilizers on the growth characteristics and yield of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) The city Darreh Gaz2852983481710.22067/jag.v7i3.31813FAMahdiyeh ZomorrodiShahin ShahsavaniMehdi Baradarn Firouzabadi0000-0003-1703-8374Ali Asghar NaderiJournal Article20140201To study the effect of vermicompost and urea and iron sulfate fertilizers on the growth characteristics and yield of sunflower seed (Helianthus annuus L.) an pediment was conducted in Darreh Gaz located in Khorasan Razavi province in 2012. Factorial experiment in a randomized complete block design with three factors and three repetition. In this experiment three levels of urea (50; 150 and 250 kg per hectare) as the first factor and two level of vermicompost (7 tons per hectare consumption and non-consumption) as the second factor and two iron sulfate (80 kilogram per hectare consumption and non- consumption) were considered as the third factor. The results showed that the effect of urea × vermicompost treatment combination on stem height, head diameter, stem dry weight and yield was significantly at one percent probability level. The treatment combination of 250 kg. ha-1 × iron sulfate× vermicompost increased plant height, head diameter, petiole dry weight. Vermicompost × iron sulfate treatment combination on the dry weight’s leaf, petiole, stem and head were the highest significant (p≤0.01). The application of vermicompost × iron sulfate treatment combination resulted in the highest rate of stem diameter, leaf dry weight and stem the highest yield belonged to 250 kg.ha-1 × vermicompost. Iron sulfate use different amounts of urea fertilizer redact yield. The lowest yield of 250 kg.ha-1× iron sulfate was related to treatment combination. So it seems that the combined application of organic vermicompost fertilizer and urea and iron sulfate fertilizers on the growth and yield of sunflower Darreh Gaz can be effective in improving properties.To study the effect of vermicompost and urea and iron sulfate fertilizers on the growth characteristics and yield of sunflower seed (Helianthus annuus L.) an pediment was conducted in Darreh Gaz located in Khorasan Razavi province in 2012. Factorial experiment in a randomized complete block design with three factors and three repetition. In this experiment three levels of urea (50; 150 and 250 kg per hectare) as the first factor and two level of vermicompost (7 tons per hectare consumption and non-consumption) as the second factor and two iron sulfate (80 kilogram per hectare consumption and non- consumption) were considered as the third factor. The results showed that the effect of urea × vermicompost treatment combination on stem height, head diameter, stem dry weight and yield was significantly at one percent probability level. The treatment combination of 250 kg. ha-1 × iron sulfate× vermicompost increased plant height, head diameter, petiole dry weight. Vermicompost × iron sulfate treatment combination on the dry weight’s leaf, petiole, stem and head were the highest significant (p≤0.01). The application of vermicompost × iron sulfate treatment combination resulted in the highest rate of stem diameter, leaf dry weight and stem the highest yield belonged to 250 kg.ha-1 × vermicompost. Iron sulfate use different amounts of urea fertilizer redact yield. The lowest yield of 250 kg.ha-1× iron sulfate was related to treatment combination. So it seems that the combined application of organic vermicompost fertilizer and urea and iron sulfate fertilizers on the growth and yield of sunflower Darreh Gaz can be effective in improving properties.https://agry.um.ac.ir/article_34817_62d6318d05668cfe823d4b67612f10bc.pdfFerdowsi University of MashhadJournal Of Agroecology2008-77137320140923Long term estimation of carbon dynamic and sequestration for Iranian agro-ecosystem: II- Sequestration and emission of carbon for common agricultural crops using ICBM modelLong term estimation of carbon dynamic and sequestration for Iranian agro-ecosystem: II- Sequestration and emission of carbon for common agricultural crops using ICBM model2993143482610.22067/jag.v7i3.52364FAMahdi Nassiri MahallatiDepartment of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran0000-0003-0357-1733Alireza KoochekiDepartment of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran0000-0002-4820-8906Roohollag MoradiDepartment of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran0000-0001-8754-8025Hamed MansooriDepartment of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, IranJournal Article20151221Introduction
Carbon sequestration is one of the most important approaches to reduce CO2 concentration in the atmosphere. Increase of CO2 in the atmosphere has prompted renewed interest in increasing the stocks of carbon (C) in the world’s croplands to mitigate climate change and also improve soil quality IPCC (2000). To better characterize, predict and manage soil C dynamics, more precise and accurate estimates of C inputs to the soil is required. The C fixed in plants by photosynthesis and added to the soil as above- and below-ground litter, is the primary source of C in ecosystems (Warembourg & Paul, 1977). Predicting the changes in C stocks (notably in soils), therefore, depends on reliable estimates of net primary productivity (NPP) and the proportion of the NPP returned to the soil (Paustian et al., 1997). The annual NPP in agroecosystems, and the distribution of C in plant parts, is usually calculated from agricultural yield, the plant component most often measured.
For carbon sequestration estimation, it is necessary to evaluate the effects of management practices on soil organic carbon (SOC) dynamics in a wide range of production systems and climatic zones. Soil organic carbon is essential for maintaining fertility, water retention, and plant production in terrestrial ecosystems. The amount of SOC stored within an ecosystem, dependes on the quantity and quality of organic matter returned to the soil matrix, the soils ability to retain organic carbon (a function of texture and cation exchange capacity), and biotic influences of both temperature and precipitation. The abiotic influences on SOC dynamics, such as moisture, temperature, aeration and the composition of plant residues are reasonably well understood.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the amount of carbon sequestration by agor-ecosystems and also the amount of CO2 emitted from agro-ecosystems in Iran.
Material and methods
The amount of carbon input for seven main crops including cereal (wheat, barley, rice and maize), forage crops (alfalfa), industrial crops (cotton) and legume (chickpea) were calculated in different climate types of Iran and finally, the amount of carbon sequestration and CO2 emission for different crops were estimated. Plant C allometric functions developed for the crops together with The Introductory C Balance Model (ICBM; Andrén and Kätterer, 1997) to describe SOC dynamics for the cropping systems were employed in this study. The model has two compartments, called Young and Old soil C, and five parameters: i, re, h, kY and kO. Annual inputs of soil C to topsoil from crop and manure are summarized in i. The parameter re (decomposer activity factor, see above) is multiplied by kY and kO, respectively, to determine the actual decomposition rates of the young and old pools for a given year. Parameter h, the humification coefficient, determines the fraction of the input that goes through Young and into Old (humus, or refractory component), and is about 0.1 for most agricultural crops and about 0.3 for manure. Then we adapted the ICBM soil climate and decomposer activity parameter (re) to account for the major effects of managing and climatically parameters. The re parameter usually is calculated from sub-parameters based on climate, soil type, crop type, intensity of cultivation and so on.
Results and discussion
The average of carbon input during 20 years showed that the warm-dry climate had the highest carbon input and cold climate had the lowest amount. The highest carbon input fluctuation was obtained in cold climate by 29.13% per year and the lowest fluctuation was related to warm-dry climate by 8.82% per year. Trend of carbon input changes among different crops illustrated that the highest carbon input was gained by alfalfa and cotton and the lowest was for chickpea. Alfalfa and cotton had the highest sequestrated carbon to the soil in all years and the lowest was observed in chickpea. The highest and lowest carbon sequestration was related to warm-dry and warm-wet climate, respectively. The highest amount of CO2 emission was observed in warm-wet climate (450 kg.ha-1.year-1) as average of 20 years and the lowest was gained in cold climate (125 kg.ha-1.year-1). The results showed that the average of CO2 emission in 20 years was 580 kg carbon for alfalfa which had the highest amount and chickpea had the lowest CO2 emission (78.8 kgc.ha-1). A significant relation was observed between CO2 emission with carbon input to the soil and also with temperature.
Conclusion
In essence, it was shown that by increasing the temperature and decreasing the humidity of regions, the value of carbon input was reduced. Among the study crops, alfalfa and cotton had the highest sequestrated carbon to the soil. The highest and the lowest amount of CO2 emission was related to warm-wet and cold climate, respectively.Introduction
Carbon sequestration is one of the most important approaches to reduce CO2 concentration in the atmosphere. Increase of CO2 in the atmosphere has prompted renewed interest in increasing the stocks of carbon (C) in the world’s croplands to mitigate climate change and also improve soil quality IPCC (2000). To better characterize, predict and manage soil C dynamics, more precise and accurate estimates of C inputs to the soil is required. The C fixed in plants by photosynthesis and added to the soil as above- and below-ground litter, is the primary source of C in ecosystems (Warembourg & Paul, 1977). Predicting the changes in C stocks (notably in soils), therefore, depends on reliable estimates of net primary productivity (NPP) and the proportion of the NPP returned to the soil (Paustian et al., 1997). The annual NPP in agroecosystems, and the distribution of C in plant parts, is usually calculated from agricultural yield, the plant component most often measured.
For carbon sequestration estimation, it is necessary to evaluate the effects of management practices on soil organic carbon (SOC) dynamics in a wide range of production systems and climatic zones. Soil organic carbon is essential for maintaining fertility, water retention, and plant production in terrestrial ecosystems. The amount of SOC stored within an ecosystem, dependes on the quantity and quality of organic matter returned to the soil matrix, the soils ability to retain organic carbon (a function of texture and cation exchange capacity), and biotic influences of both temperature and precipitation. The abiotic influences on SOC dynamics, such as moisture, temperature, aeration and the composition of plant residues are reasonably well understood.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the amount of carbon sequestration by agor-ecosystems and also the amount of CO2 emitted from agro-ecosystems in Iran.
Material and methods
The amount of carbon input for seven main crops including cereal (wheat, barley, rice and maize), forage crops (alfalfa), industrial crops (cotton) and legume (chickpea) were calculated in different climate types of Iran and finally, the amount of carbon sequestration and CO2 emission for different crops were estimated. Plant C allometric functions developed for the crops together with The Introductory C Balance Model (ICBM; Andrén and Kätterer, 1997) to describe SOC dynamics for the cropping systems were employed in this study. The model has two compartments, called Young and Old soil C, and five parameters: i, re, h, kY and kO. Annual inputs of soil C to topsoil from crop and manure are summarized in i. The parameter re (decomposer activity factor, see above) is multiplied by kY and kO, respectively, to determine the actual decomposition rates of the young and old pools for a given year. Parameter h, the humification coefficient, determines the fraction of the input that goes through Young and into Old (humus, or refractory component), and is about 0.1 for most agricultural crops and about 0.3 for manure. Then we adapted the ICBM soil climate and decomposer activity parameter (re) to account for the major effects of managing and climatically parameters. The re parameter usually is calculated from sub-parameters based on climate, soil type, crop type, intensity of cultivation and so on.
Results and discussion
The average of carbon input during 20 years showed that the warm-dry climate had the highest carbon input and cold climate had the lowest amount. The highest carbon input fluctuation was obtained in cold climate by 29.13% per year and the lowest fluctuation was related to warm-dry climate by 8.82% per year. Trend of carbon input changes among different crops illustrated that the highest carbon input was gained by alfalfa and cotton and the lowest was for chickpea. Alfalfa and cotton had the highest sequestrated carbon to the soil in all years and the lowest was observed in chickpea. The highest and lowest carbon sequestration was related to warm-dry and warm-wet climate, respectively. The highest amount of CO2 emission was observed in warm-wet climate (450 kg.ha-1.year-1) as average of 20 years and the lowest was gained in cold climate (125 kg.ha-1.year-1). The results showed that the average of CO2 emission in 20 years was 580 kg carbon for alfalfa which had the highest amount and chickpea had the lowest CO2 emission (78.8 kgc.ha-1). A significant relation was observed between CO2 emission with carbon input to the soil and also with temperature.
Conclusion
In essence, it was shown that by increasing the temperature and decreasing the humidity of regions, the value of carbon input was reduced. Among the study crops, alfalfa and cotton had the highest sequestrated carbon to the soil. The highest and the lowest amount of CO2 emission was related to warm-wet and cold climate, respectively.https://agry.um.ac.ir/article_34826_89df19eb3b06106d7343c1e2ce28e15f.pdfFerdowsi University of MashhadJournal Of Agroecology2008-77137320140923Simulating the potential yield and yield gaps of sugar beet due to water and nitrogen limitations in Khorasan province using SUCROS modelSimulating the potential yield and yield gaps of sugar beet due to water and nitrogen limitations in Khorasan province using SUCROS model3153303484010.22067/jag.v7i3.52366FAM Nassiri MahallatiFerdowsi University of Mashhad0000-0003-0357-1733Journal Article20151221Introduction
Crop productivity is highly constrained by water and nitrogen limitations in many areas of the world (Kalra et al., 2007). Therefore, there is a need to investigate more on nitrogen and water management to achieve higher production as well as quality. Irrigated sugar beet in the cropping systems of Khorasan province in northeastern of Iran accounts for about 34% of the land area under sugar beet production (~115,000 ha) with an average yield of around 36 t.ha-1 (Anonymous, 2009). However, there is a huge yield gap (the difference between potential and water and nitrogen-limited yield) mainly due to biotic and abiotic factors causing major reduction in farmers’ yield. Accordingly, yield gap analysis should be carried out to reduce the yield reduction and reach the farmer’s yield to the potential yield. The current study aimed to simulate potential yield as well as yield gap related to water and nitrogen shortage in the major sugar beet-growing areas of Khorasan province of Iran.
Materials and methods
This study was carried out in 6 locations across Khorasan province, which is located in the northeast of Iran. Long term weather data for 1986 to 2009 were obtained from Iran Meteorological Organization for 6 selected locations. The weather data included daily sunshine hours (h), daily maximum and minimum temperatures (◦C), and daily rainfall (mm). Daily solar radiation was estimated using the Goudriaan (1993) method. The validated SUCROSBEET model (Deihimfard, 2011; Deihimfard et al., 2011) was then used to estimate potential, water and nitrogen-limited yield and yield gap of sugar beet for 6 selected locations across the Khorasan province in the northeast of Iran. This model simulates the impacts of weather, genotype and management factors on crop growth and development, soil water and nitrogen balance on a daily basis and finally it predicts crop yield. The model requires input data, including local weather and soil conditions, cultivar-specific parameters, and crop management information. Soil water module was used to determine soil water balance under water-limited conditions. Some questionnaires were then sent to extension agents to obtain information from the main sugar beet producing fields in each location.
Results and discussion
The SUCROSBEET model reasonably well predicted root yield across the study locations. The model could be used to simulate sugar beet yield under potential, water and nitrogen-limited situations. Simulation results of SUCROSBEET model showed that the lowest and highest sugar beet potential yield were obtained in Sabzevar (100 t.ha-1) and Neishaboor (137 t.ha-1), respectively. Total yield gap (the difference between potential and farmer’s yield) ranged from 74 to 109 t.ha-1, in Sabzevar and Neishaboor, respectively. Despite the fact that most of the farms had been irrigated up to 20 times over seasons, there were still yield gap of an average 42 t.ha-1 due to water shortage. To reach the potential yield in the study locations, more than 2000 mm water is required in Sabsevar and Torbat-Jam and 1400 to 1500 mm in Ghoochan and Neishaboor, respectively. On average, to fill nitrogen-limited yield gap, 440 to 530 kg.ha-1 of nitrogen for sugar beet uptake are also required. However, the farmers in various locations have been able to apply only 50% of the sugar beet nitrogen demands during the past decade. The results of the current study also suggested that the farmer yields of about 16-48 t.ha-1in the irrigated locations across Khorasan province, were not constrained by low genetic yield potential. It is also needed to irrigate more than two times in some locations for reaching water-limited yield to potential one. Although there is a high potential for production of sugar beet (more than 130 t.ha-1), the ratio of yield production to water consumption (known as water productivity) is not suitable in the study locations and production of sugar beet would not be cost-effective. Another issue which has not been considered in the simulations is qualitative traits of sugar beet (such as sugar content, Alkaloids, molasses sugar, sodium and potassium in storage organ, etc.) particularly under different levels of nitrogen applications. Although increasing nitrogen application would be resulted in higher yield and lower yield gaps, supplied nitrogen more than crop demand could be accumulated in storage organs and reduce white sugar yield. For instance, every 15 kg additional application of nitrogen reduced sugar content by 0.1 percent and reduced extraction coefficient of sugar. It is also worth noting that the current version of SUCROSBEET model is not capable to simulate qualitative traits of sugar beet and a few subroutines are needed to add to the model for future investigations.
Conclusion
The results indicated that although there is high yield potential for sugar beet in Khorasan province, water productivity would not be reasonable. In addition, yield gap in sugar beet cropping systems which reflects the actual yield gap in irrigated environments is essentially due to non-adoption of improved crop management practices and could be reduced if proper interventions are made.Introduction
Crop productivity is highly constrained by water and nitrogen limitations in many areas of the world (Kalra et al., 2007). Therefore, there is a need to investigate more on nitrogen and water management to achieve higher production as well as quality. Irrigated sugar beet in the cropping systems of Khorasan province in northeastern of Iran accounts for about 34% of the land area under sugar beet production (~115,000 ha) with an average yield of around 36 t.ha-1 (Anonymous, 2009). However, there is a huge yield gap (the difference between potential and water and nitrogen-limited yield) mainly due to biotic and abiotic factors causing major reduction in farmers’ yield. Accordingly, yield gap analysis should be carried out to reduce the yield reduction and reach the farmer’s yield to the potential yield. The current study aimed to simulate potential yield as well as yield gap related to water and nitrogen shortage in the major sugar beet-growing areas of Khorasan province of Iran.
Materials and methods
This study was carried out in 6 locations across Khorasan province, which is located in the northeast of Iran. Long term weather data for 1986 to 2009 were obtained from Iran Meteorological Organization for 6 selected locations. The weather data included daily sunshine hours (h), daily maximum and minimum temperatures (◦C), and daily rainfall (mm). Daily solar radiation was estimated using the Goudriaan (1993) method. The validated SUCROSBEET model (Deihimfard, 2011; Deihimfard et al., 2011) was then used to estimate potential, water and nitrogen-limited yield and yield gap of sugar beet for 6 selected locations across the Khorasan province in the northeast of Iran. This model simulates the impacts of weather, genotype and management factors on crop growth and development, soil water and nitrogen balance on a daily basis and finally it predicts crop yield. The model requires input data, including local weather and soil conditions, cultivar-specific parameters, and crop management information. Soil water module was used to determine soil water balance under water-limited conditions. Some questionnaires were then sent to extension agents to obtain information from the main sugar beet producing fields in each location.
Results and discussion
The SUCROSBEET model reasonably well predicted root yield across the study locations. The model could be used to simulate sugar beet yield under potential, water and nitrogen-limited situations. Simulation results of SUCROSBEET model showed that the lowest and highest sugar beet potential yield were obtained in Sabzevar (100 t.ha-1) and Neishaboor (137 t.ha-1), respectively. Total yield gap (the difference between potential and farmer’s yield) ranged from 74 to 109 t.ha-1, in Sabzevar and Neishaboor, respectively. Despite the fact that most of the farms had been irrigated up to 20 times over seasons, there were still yield gap of an average 42 t.ha-1 due to water shortage. To reach the potential yield in the study locations, more than 2000 mm water is required in Sabsevar and Torbat-Jam and 1400 to 1500 mm in Ghoochan and Neishaboor, respectively. On average, to fill nitrogen-limited yield gap, 440 to 530 kg.ha-1 of nitrogen for sugar beet uptake are also required. However, the farmers in various locations have been able to apply only 50% of the sugar beet nitrogen demands during the past decade. The results of the current study also suggested that the farmer yields of about 16-48 t.ha-1in the irrigated locations across Khorasan province, were not constrained by low genetic yield potential. It is also needed to irrigate more than two times in some locations for reaching water-limited yield to potential one. Although there is a high potential for production of sugar beet (more than 130 t.ha-1), the ratio of yield production to water consumption (known as water productivity) is not suitable in the study locations and production of sugar beet would not be cost-effective. Another issue which has not been considered in the simulations is qualitative traits of sugar beet (such as sugar content, Alkaloids, molasses sugar, sodium and potassium in storage organ, etc.) particularly under different levels of nitrogen applications. Although increasing nitrogen application would be resulted in higher yield and lower yield gaps, supplied nitrogen more than crop demand could be accumulated in storage organs and reduce white sugar yield. For instance, every 15 kg additional application of nitrogen reduced sugar content by 0.1 percent and reduced extraction coefficient of sugar. It is also worth noting that the current version of SUCROSBEET model is not capable to simulate qualitative traits of sugar beet and a few subroutines are needed to add to the model for future investigations.
Conclusion
The results indicated that although there is high yield potential for sugar beet in Khorasan province, water productivity would not be reasonable. In addition, yield gap in sugar beet cropping systems which reflects the actual yield gap in irrigated environments is essentially due to non-adoption of improved crop management practices and could be reduced if proper interventions are made.https://agry.um.ac.ir/article_34840_5c7afaad16cf0199a183d05099d7c485.pdfFerdowsi University of MashhadJournal Of Agroecology2008-77137320140923Evaluation the effects of manure and mycorrhizal inoculation on grain and oil yield of spring safflower cultivars (Carthamus tinctorius L.)Evaluation the effects of manure and mycorrhizal inoculation on grain and oil yield of spring safflower cultivars (Carthamus tinctorius L.)3313433485210.22067/jag.v7i3.52367FAP Rezvani MoghaddamFerdowsi University of Mashhad0000-0002-3827-3878A NorouzianFerdowsi University of MashhadS.M SeyyediFerdowsi University of Mashhad0000-0002-3827-3878Journal Article20151221Introduction
Considering the nutrient loss, environmental pollution and increase in production costs on account of chemical fertilizer application, supplying mineral nutrients based on organic sources and mycorrhizal inoculation can improve organic matter content in soil (Khandan & Astaraei, 2005; Halajnia et al., 2007), promote sustainable production of oil crops (Mostafavian et al., 2008; Kawthar et al., 2010) and ultimately affect the long term performance of the agricultural ecosystems in arid and semi-arid regions (Mostafavian et al., 2008). Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is an annual oil seed crop belonging to the Asteraceae family and its spring cultivars are mainly grown in semiarid regions, especially in Iran.
Hence, the current experiment was aimed to evaluate the effects of manure application and mycorrhizal inoculation on yield and yield components of spring safflower cultivars in Iran. In addition, quality yield in term of oil percentage was studied in response to experimental treatments.
Materials and methods
A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran (latitude: 15° 36´ N, longitude: 28° 59´ E, altitude: 985 m), during growing season of 2009-2010, by using a completely randomized block design based on factorial fraction with three replications and sixteen treatments.
The experimental treatments included four spring safflower cultivars (Darab, Isfahan, Arak and IL-111), two manure levels (no applying and applying manure 25 t.ha-1) and two mycorrhiza levels (no inoculation and inoculation with Glomus mosseae).
The experimental field was prepared according to the local practices for safflower production. Each plot was 6 m2 (3 m long) and 1 m apart. Between blocks, 2 m alley was kept to eliminate all side effects of treatments.
Seed sowing was performed at 14th April in 2010. Final density was 50 plants.m-2. The first irrigation was immediately done after seed sowing with weekly irrigation until physiological maturity stage (10 days before harvesting).
At fully blooming stage, plant were harvested in one square meter in each plot and fresh and dry petal yield were recorded. At maturity stage, five plants from each plot were chosen randomly and number of branch per plant, number of seeds per head, seed weight per plant and 1000-seed weight were recorded. Final grain and oil yields were measured by harvesting 1 m2 of the central part of each plot.
For statistical analysis, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Duncan’s multiple range test (DMRT) were performed using SAS ver. 9.1 software.
Results and discussion
Results indicated that applying manure significantly affected number of branch per plant, number of seed per head, seed weight per head and 1000- seed weight as well as petal, grain, biological and oil yields of safflower cultivars. For instance, the applying manure significantly increased grain and oil yields of safflower cultivars more than two times.
As mentioned before, organic fertilizers can improve the organic matter content, aggregates stability and nutrients availability in soil (Khandan & Astaraei, 2005; Halajnia et al., 2007), so application of manure fertilizer and gradual release of mineral nutrients into the soil would increase the growth, production and quality yield of spring safflower cultivars.
Based on the results, effects of mycorrhiza inoculation on increasing the number of seed per plant, 1000 seed weight, petal, grain, biological and oil yields of safflower were significant. The highest grain (2546 kg.ha-1) and oil yields (685 kg.ha-1) were obtained from manure + mycorrhiza inoculation treatment. However, manure + mycorrhiza inoculation treatment did not have any effect on oil percentage and harvest index. Effective role of mycorrhizal inoculation in increasing the grain yield of safflower has also been reported by (Mirza Khani et al., 2010).
Among safflower cultivars, Darab cultivar indicated the highest grain and oil yields (1327.7 and 346.4 kg.ha-1, respectively). Based on our results, Darab and IL-111 cultivars had the most grain and oil yields, in comparison with Isfahan and Arak cultivars. However, no significant difference was observed between the spring safflower cultivars in term of number of seed per head and oil percentage.
Conclusion
Consequently, selecting the Darab cultivar and applying manure in combination with mycorrhizal inoculation is strongly recommended to achieve a reasonable and stable yield of safflower. However, the environmental conditions of the cultivated area should be specifically considered to select a spring safflower cultivar.Introduction
Considering the nutrient loss, environmental pollution and increase in production costs on account of chemical fertilizer application, supplying mineral nutrients based on organic sources and mycorrhizal inoculation can improve organic matter content in soil (Khandan & Astaraei, 2005; Halajnia et al., 2007), promote sustainable production of oil crops (Mostafavian et al., 2008; Kawthar et al., 2010) and ultimately affect the long term performance of the agricultural ecosystems in arid and semi-arid regions (Mostafavian et al., 2008). Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is an annual oil seed crop belonging to the Asteraceae family and its spring cultivars are mainly grown in semiarid regions, especially in Iran.
Hence, the current experiment was aimed to evaluate the effects of manure application and mycorrhizal inoculation on yield and yield components of spring safflower cultivars in Iran. In addition, quality yield in term of oil percentage was studied in response to experimental treatments.
Materials and methods
A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran (latitude: 15° 36´ N, longitude: 28° 59´ E, altitude: 985 m), during growing season of 2009-2010, by using a completely randomized block design based on factorial fraction with three replications and sixteen treatments.
The experimental treatments included four spring safflower cultivars (Darab, Isfahan, Arak and IL-111), two manure levels (no applying and applying manure 25 t.ha-1) and two mycorrhiza levels (no inoculation and inoculation with Glomus mosseae).
The experimental field was prepared according to the local practices for safflower production. Each plot was 6 m2 (3 m long) and 1 m apart. Between blocks, 2 m alley was kept to eliminate all side effects of treatments.
Seed sowing was performed at 14th April in 2010. Final density was 50 plants.m-2. The first irrigation was immediately done after seed sowing with weekly irrigation until physiological maturity stage (10 days before harvesting).
At fully blooming stage, plant were harvested in one square meter in each plot and fresh and dry petal yield were recorded. At maturity stage, five plants from each plot were chosen randomly and number of branch per plant, number of seeds per head, seed weight per plant and 1000-seed weight were recorded. Final grain and oil yields were measured by harvesting 1 m2 of the central part of each plot.
For statistical analysis, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Duncan’s multiple range test (DMRT) were performed using SAS ver. 9.1 software.
Results and discussion
Results indicated that applying manure significantly affected number of branch per plant, number of seed per head, seed weight per head and 1000- seed weight as well as petal, grain, biological and oil yields of safflower cultivars. For instance, the applying manure significantly increased grain and oil yields of safflower cultivars more than two times.
As mentioned before, organic fertilizers can improve the organic matter content, aggregates stability and nutrients availability in soil (Khandan & Astaraei, 2005; Halajnia et al., 2007), so application of manure fertilizer and gradual release of mineral nutrients into the soil would increase the growth, production and quality yield of spring safflower cultivars.
Based on the results, effects of mycorrhiza inoculation on increasing the number of seed per plant, 1000 seed weight, petal, grain, biological and oil yields of safflower were significant. The highest grain (2546 kg.ha-1) and oil yields (685 kg.ha-1) were obtained from manure + mycorrhiza inoculation treatment. However, manure + mycorrhiza inoculation treatment did not have any effect on oil percentage and harvest index. Effective role of mycorrhizal inoculation in increasing the grain yield of safflower has also been reported by (Mirza Khani et al., 2010).
Among safflower cultivars, Darab cultivar indicated the highest grain and oil yields (1327.7 and 346.4 kg.ha-1, respectively). Based on our results, Darab and IL-111 cultivars had the most grain and oil yields, in comparison with Isfahan and Arak cultivars. However, no significant difference was observed between the spring safflower cultivars in term of number of seed per head and oil percentage.
Conclusion
Consequently, selecting the Darab cultivar and applying manure in combination with mycorrhizal inoculation is strongly recommended to achieve a reasonable and stable yield of safflower. However, the environmental conditions of the cultivated area should be specifically considered to select a spring safflower cultivar.https://agry.um.ac.ir/article_34852_c0debd3fd2a91b0cdeee0da7e3452323.pdfFerdowsi University of MashhadJournal Of Agroecology2008-77137320140923The investigation of competition indices in intercropping of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under nitrogen consumptionThe investigation of competition indices in intercropping of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under nitrogen consumption3443553486210.22067/jag.v7i3.26662FATayebe MashhadiDepartment of Crop Production, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Gonbad Kavos University, Gonbad Kavos, IranAli Nazhzari MaghadamDepartment of Crop Production, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Gonbad Kavos University, Gonbad Kavos, Iran0000-0003-2282-6973Hossein SabouriDepartment of Crop Production, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Gonbad Kavos University, Gonbad Kavos, IranJournal Article20131006In order to investigate the competition indices of intercropping wheat and chickpea under nitrogen consumption, an experiment was arranged as factorial based on Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications during 2009 – 2010 in Gonbad Kavous University farm. Planting patterns factor included four levels of sole cropping Wheat (W), two rows of wheat with one row of Chickpea (W2C1) one row of wheat with two rows of Chickpea (W1C2) and sole cropping Chickpea (C) and nitrogen consumption contained four levels of 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 kg N/h per/ha. Results showed that the highest grain yield and wheat equivalent yield was obtained from sole cropping of wheat. In the intercropping of two rows of wheat with one row of chickpea and one row of wheat with two rows of chickpea Land Equivalent Ratio was 0.87 and 0.71 respectively that was less than sole cropping of wheat and cicer. Relative Crowding Coefficient of wheat in two rows of wheat with one row of chickpea and one row of wheat with two rows of chickpea was 1.93 and 1.73 and of chickpea was 0.15 and 0.17 respectively. The Aggressivity parameter indicated a tendency for wheat to dominate cicer in both intercropping. Competitive Ratio in two rows of wheat with one row of chickpea was greater than one row of wheat with two rows of chickpea. Actual Yield Loss and Intercropping Advantage in wheat was positive and in cicer was negative. Actual Yield Loss and Intercropping Advantage in Intercropping of wheat and cicer was decreased.In order to investigate the competition indices of intercropping wheat and chickpea under nitrogen consumption, an experiment was arranged as factorial based on Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications during 2009 – 2010 in Gonbad Kavous University farm. Planting patterns factor included four levels of sole cropping Wheat (W), two rows of wheat with one row of Chickpea (W2C1) one row of wheat with two rows of Chickpea (W1C2) and sole cropping Chickpea (C) and nitrogen consumption contained four levels of 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 kg N/h per/ha. Results showed that the highest grain yield and wheat equivalent yield was obtained from sole cropping of wheat. In the intercropping of two rows of wheat with one row of chickpea and one row of wheat with two rows of chickpea Land Equivalent Ratio was 0.87 and 0.71 respectively that was less than sole cropping of wheat and cicer. Relative Crowding Coefficient of wheat in two rows of wheat with one row of chickpea and one row of wheat with two rows of chickpea was 1.93 and 1.73 and of chickpea was 0.15 and 0.17 respectively. The Aggressivity parameter indicated a tendency for wheat to dominate cicer in both intercropping. Competitive Ratio in two rows of wheat with one row of chickpea was greater than one row of wheat with two rows of chickpea. Actual Yield Loss and Intercropping Advantage in wheat was positive and in cicer was negative. Actual Yield Loss and Intercropping Advantage in Intercropping of wheat and cicer was decreased.https://agry.um.ac.ir/article_34862_6f56333aef4cadc62313dd865592ea4d.pdfFerdowsi University of MashhadJournal Of Agroecology2008-77137320140923Evaluation the competitiveness of Sesame and Mung bean Crops in both Monocropping and Intercropping SystemsEvaluation the competitiveness of Sesame and Mung bean Crops in both Monocropping and Intercropping Systems3563673486810.22067/jag.v7i3.31213FASajad RastgooDepartment of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, IranAmir AynehbandDepartment of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, IranEsfandiar FatehDepartment of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran0000-0002-5126-786XJournal Article20140120In order to study the productivity and competition ability of Sesame and Mung bean, a field experiment was conducted in Agriculture Faculty of Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz at 2012. Experimental design was split-plot based of RCB with 3 replications. Main plot included 2 planting patterns and sub-plots included 5 plant density ratios. Our result showed that both 50 & 75 cm inter-rows in 50+50% density ratios had the highest intercrop grain yield, respectively (2.05 & 2 ton/ha) In most treatments, Sesame had the higher grain yield than Mung bean. Increasing of plant density had positive effect on yield improving of both crops. The harvest index (HI) was improved by increasing of inter-row due to increase in grain yield and decrease in biological yield. The LER index was higher than that one in all intercropping treatments that result of priority of intercropping systems than mono cropping systems. Sesame had higher competition ability than mung bean, so this crop was dominant crop in intercropping systems than mung bean.
In order to study the productivity and competition ability of Sesame and Mung bean, a field experiment was conducted in Agriculture Faculty of Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz at 2012. Experimental design was split-plot based of RCB with 3 replications. Main plot included 2 planting patterns and sub-plots included 5 plant density ratios. Our result showed that both 50 & 75 cm inter-rows in 50+50% density ratios had the highest intercrop grain yield, respectively (2.05 & 2 ton/ha) In most treatments, Sesame had the higher grain yield than Mung bean.In order to study the productivity and competition ability of Sesame and Mung bean, a field experiment was conducted in Agriculture Faculty of Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz at 2012. Experimental design was split-plot based of RCB with 3 replications. Main plot included 2 planting patterns and sub-plots included 5 plant density ratios. Our result showed that both 50 & 75 cm inter-rows in 50+50% density ratios had the highest intercrop grain yield, respectively (2.05 & 2 ton/ha) In most treatments, Sesame had the higher grain yield than Mung bean. Increasing of plant density had positive effect on yield improving of both crops. The harvest index (HI) was improved by increasing of inter-row due to increase in grain yield and decrease in biological yield. The LER index was higher than that one in all intercropping treatments that result of priority of intercropping systems than mono cropping systems. Sesame had higher competition ability than mung bean, so this crop was dominant crop in intercropping systems than mung bean.
In order to study the productivity and competition ability of Sesame and Mung bean, a field experiment was conducted in Agriculture Faculty of Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz at 2012. Experimental design was split-plot based of RCB with 3 replications. Main plot included 2 planting patterns and sub-plots included 5 plant density ratios. Our result showed that both 50 & 75 cm inter-rows in 50+50% density ratios had the highest intercrop grain yield, respectively (2.05 & 2 ton/ha) In most treatments, Sesame had the higher grain yield than Mung bean.https://agry.um.ac.ir/article_34868_cb2a33a7f213b83e9b89e159629758b4.pdfFerdowsi University of MashhadJournal Of Agroecology2008-77137320140923Agro-ecological Zoning of the Qazvin area for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) using RS and GISAgro-ecological Zoning of the Qazvin area for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) using RS and GIS3683803488710.22067/jag.v7i3.34568FAAbbas TaatiUniversity of TehranFereydoon SarmadianUniversity of TehranJournal Article20140427One of the effective tools for identifying land resources and assign them to the best and most profitable forms of land productivity, susceptibility of Agro-ecological zoning . In this study Agro-ecological zoning of satellite imagery and GIS were used. After Agro-climatic zoning (based on isorain, isothermal and length of growing period maps) and Agro-edaphic zoning (based on soil, slope and land use maps), in total, 43 Agro-ecological zoning were achieved. The climate, soil and topographic characteristics of the zone were compared with crop requirements for wheat and land suitability classes were determined using the parametric square root methods . The results showed that climate suitability classes for wheat are highly suitable (S1). Based on squre root of almost 34/14%, 43/16%, 14/94%, 4/03% and 3/72% respectively in the classes land highly suitable (S1), moderately suitable (S2), marginally suitable (S3), unsuitable (N) and unstudied (NS( are. In addition, soil depth and gravel percentage in the Northern part. Also, salinity, alkalinity, lack of organic matter and gypsum are major limiting factors in the Southern part area. Potential yield of wheat was calculated using the FAO method and amount of 6666 kg per hectare , respectively. Also, land production potential in each of the zone was determined. This loss of yield due to the potential yield impact of limiting factors that modify management actions such as increased organic matter to the soil, land drainage and leaching can increase crop yield.One of the effective tools for identifying land resources and assign them to the best and most profitable forms of land productivity, susceptibility of Agro-ecological zoning . In this study Agro-ecological zoning of satellite imagery and GIS were used. After Agro-climatic zoning (based on isorain, isothermal and length of growing period maps) and Agro-edaphic zoning (based on soil, slope and land use maps), in total, 43 Agro-ecological zoning were achieved. The climate, soil and topographic characteristics of the zone were compared with crop requirements for wheat and land suitability classes were determined using the parametric square root methods . The results showed that climate suitability classes for wheat are highly suitable (S1). Based on squre root of almost 34/14%, 43/16%, 14/94%, 4/03% and 3/72% respectively in the classes land highly suitable (S1), moderately suitable (S2), marginally suitable (S3), unsuitable (N) and unstudied (NS( are. In addition, soil depth and gravel percentage in the Northern part. Also, salinity, alkalinity, lack of organic matter and gypsum are major limiting factors in the Southern part area. Potential yield of wheat was calculated using the FAO method and amount of 6666 kg per hectare , respectively. Also, land production potential in each of the zone was determined. This loss of yield due to the potential yield impact of limiting factors that modify management actions such as increased organic matter to the soil, land drainage and leaching can increase crop yield.https://agry.um.ac.ir/article_34887_c938bfbd3ca487bfff532be9d3ed612a.pdfFerdowsi University of MashhadJournal Of Agroecology2008-77137320140923Study of agronomic characteristics and advantage indices in intercropping of additive series of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.)Study of agronomic characteristics and advantage indices in intercropping of additive series of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.)3813963489810.22067/jag.v7i3.35858FAEsmaeil Rezaei-ChiyanehDepartment of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Urmia University, IranEsmaeil GholinezhadDepartment of Agriculture, Payame Noor University, Tehran Center, Tehran, IranJournal Article20140602Study of agronomic characteristics and advantage indices in intercropping of additive series of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.)
Abstract
In order to evaluate quantitive and qualitive yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) in intercropping of additive series, a field experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications in West Azerbaijan province- city Nagadeh, Iran during growing reason of 2012-2013. Treatments included 100% Black Cumin + 10% Chickpea, 100% Black Cumin + 20% Chickpea, 100% Black Cumin + 30% Chickpea, 100% Black Cumin + 40% Chickpea and 100% Black Cumin + 50% Chickpea and sole cropping of Chickpea and Black Cumin. Different Planting Ratio had significant effect on studied traits of Chickpea and Black Cumin (exception Essential oil yield of Black Cumin). Yield and components yield in monoculture of each crop was more than other treatments. The highest grain yield and biological yield of chickpea were achieved in monoculture with 1105 and 14479 kg.ha-1, respectively. The results showed that the maximum seed yield and biological yield of Black Cumin were obtained at monoculture with 750 and 2310 kg.ha-1, respectively. The highest of percentage of grain protein (23%) and essential oil percentage (1.47%) were related to treatment 100% Black Cumin + 50% Chickpea, respectively. Based on this results, the highest land equivalent ratio (LER=1.74), actual yield loss (AYL=6.45) and intercropping advantage (IA=1.70) were obtained by treatment 100% Black Cumin + 10% Chickpea, respectively. Therefore, it seems that treatment 100% Black Cumin + 10% Chickpea is remarkably effective to increase the economic income and land use efficiency.Study of agronomic characteristics and advantage indices in intercropping of additive series of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.)
Abstract
In order to evaluate quantitive and qualitive yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) in intercropping of additive series, a field experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications in West Azerbaijan province- city Nagadeh, Iran during growing reason of 2012-2013. Treatments included 100% Black Cumin + 10% Chickpea, 100% Black Cumin + 20% Chickpea, 100% Black Cumin + 30% Chickpea, 100% Black Cumin + 40% Chickpea and 100% Black Cumin + 50% Chickpea and sole cropping of Chickpea and Black Cumin. Different Planting Ratio had significant effect on studied traits of Chickpea and Black Cumin (exception Essential oil yield of Black Cumin). Yield and components yield in monoculture of each crop was more than other treatments. The highest grain yield and biological yield of chickpea were achieved in monoculture with 1105 and 14479 kg.ha-1, respectively. The results showed that the maximum seed yield and biological yield of Black Cumin were obtained at monoculture with 750 and 2310 kg.ha-1, respectively. The highest of percentage of grain protein (23%) and essential oil percentage (1.47%) were related to treatment 100% Black Cumin + 50% Chickpea, respectively. Based on this results, the highest land equivalent ratio (LER=1.74), actual yield loss (AYL=6.45) and intercropping advantage (IA=1.70) were obtained by treatment 100% Black Cumin + 10% Chickpea, respectively. Therefore, it seems that treatment 100% Black Cumin + 10% Chickpea is remarkably effective to increase the economic income and land use efficiency.https://agry.um.ac.ir/article_34898_31d7558b05f00074608051b363e6f515.pdfFerdowsi University of MashhadJournal Of Agroecology2008-77137320140923Feasibility of annual alfalfa (Medicago scutellata) cropping in Aq-Qalla township (Golestan province) using GISFeasibility of annual alfalfa (Medicago scutellata) cropping in Aq-Qalla township (Golestan province) using GIS3974113491210.22067/jag.v7i3.41340FANiloofar NasrollahiDepartment of Agronomy, Faculty of Crop Production, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, IranHossein KazemiDepartment of Agronomy, Faculty of Crop Production, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Iran0000-0001-7528-5387Behnam KamkarDepartment of Agronomy, Faculty of Crop Production, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Iran0000-0003-1309-8433Journal Article20141117In this study, geographical information system (GIS) and multi-criteria evaluation (MCE) were applied to feasibility of agricultural lands in Aq-Qalla township for annual alfalfa (Medicago scutellata) cultivation. For this purpose, required data and information of the study area collected during 2013, and thematic maps were provided. Kriging and IDW methods were applied to interpolation of environmental variables. The digital environmental layers overlaid and integrated in GIS media in respect to AHP weights and then zoning of lands carried out in four classes (high suitable, suitable, semi suitable and non-suitable). The results showed that 23.1% and 47/2% of this area were high suitable and suitable for alfalfa cropping, respectively. These zones had enough rainfall, suitable topography and high fertility. The semi- suitable and non- suitable regions (about 30% of area) were located in the northwest, east and south of Aq-Qalla township. In these zones, the environmental requires of annual alfalfa had not fitted to ecological variables of agricultural land. In this study, the limitation factors were including: high EC (about 30 dS/m), deficient of organic matter, K and Ca
In these zones, the environmental requires of annual alfalfa had not fitted to ecological variables of agricultural land. In this study, the limitation factors were including: high EC (about 30 dS/m), deficient of organic matter, K and Ca.In this study, geographical information system (GIS) and multi-criteria evaluation (MCE) were applied to feasibility of agricultural lands in Aq-Qalla township for annual alfalfa (Medicago scutellata) cultivation. For this purpose, required data and information of the study area collected during 2013, and thematic maps were provided. Kriging and IDW methods were applied to interpolation of environmental variables. The digital environmental layers overlaid and integrated in GIS media in respect to AHP weights and then zoning of lands carried out in four classes (high suitable, suitable, semi suitable and non-suitable). The results showed that 23.1% and 47/2% of this area were high suitable and suitable for alfalfa cropping, respectively. These zones had enough rainfall, suitable topography and high fertility. The semi- suitable and non- suitable regions (about 30% of area) were located in the northwest, east and south of Aq-Qalla township. In these zones, the environmental requires of annual alfalfa had not fitted to ecological variables of agricultural land. In this study, the limitation factors were including: high EC (about 30 dS/m), deficient of organic matter, K and Ca
In these zones, the environmental requires of annual alfalfa had not fitted to ecological variables of agricultural land. In this study, the limitation factors were including: high EC (about 30 dS/m), deficient of organic matter, K and Ca.https://agry.um.ac.ir/article_34912_aed9cb11bc857a57dcd40fef1d937da3.pdfFerdowsi University of MashhadJournal Of Agroecology2008-77137320140923Evaluation of radiation interception and use by fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) and dill (Anethum graveolens L.) intercropping canopyEvaluation of radiation interception and use by fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) and dill (Anethum graveolens L.) intercropping canopy4124243493010.22067/jag.v7i3.47439FAMehdi YousefniaDepartment of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, IranMohammad Bannayan AvalDepartment of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran0000-0001-6076-619Sorour KhorramdelDepartment of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran0000-0002-4820-8906Journal Article20150609It is known that legumes give benefits to the soil such as improved nutrient availability, improved structure, reduced pest and disease incidence, and hormonal effects (Wani et al., 1995). The major benefit of legume crops comes from biologically nitrogen fixation, deriving from the symbiosis involving leguminous plants and rhizobium bacteria (Vance, 1998).
Based on this purpose, a field study was conducted to evaluate radiation absorption and use efficiency in fenugreek and dill in row intercropping as replacement series at the Agricultural Research Station, Ferdowsi University, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran during growing season of 2013-2014. Treatments included 20% fenugreek+ 80% dill, 40% fenugreek+ 60% dill, 60% fenugreek+ 40% dill, 80% fenugreek+ 20% dill and their monoculture. For statistical analysis, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Duncan’s multiple range test (DMRT) were performed using SAS version 9.3 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA).
Results indicated that leaf area index, light absorption, total dry matter accumulation and radiation use efficiency (RUE) of fenugreek and dill increased in all intercropping ratios compared to monoculture. RUE range for fenugreek was from 0.95 g.MJ-1 in monoculture to 1.24 g.MJ-1 in 40% fenugreek+ 60% dill. RUE range for dill was from 0.64 g.MJ-1 in monoculture to 1.02 g.MJ-1 in 40% fenugreek+ 60% dill.It is known that legumes give benefits to the soil such as improved nutrient availability, improved structure, reduced pest and disease incidence, and hormonal effects (Wani et al., 1995). The major benefit of legume crops comes from biologically nitrogen fixation, deriving from the symbiosis involving leguminous plants and rhizobium bacteria (Vance, 1998).
Based on this purpose, a field study was conducted to evaluate radiation absorption and use efficiency in fenugreek and dill in row intercropping as replacement series at the Agricultural Research Station, Ferdowsi University, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran during growing season of 2013-2014. Treatments included 20% fenugreek+ 80% dill, 40% fenugreek+ 60% dill, 60% fenugreek+ 40% dill, 80% fenugreek+ 20% dill and their monoculture. For statistical analysis, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Duncan’s multiple range test (DMRT) were performed using SAS version 9.3 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA).
Results indicated that leaf area index, light absorption, total dry matter accumulation and radiation use efficiency (RUE) of fenugreek and dill increased in all intercropping ratios compared to monoculture. RUE range for fenugreek was from 0.95 g.MJ-1 in monoculture to 1.24 g.MJ-1 in 40% fenugreek+ 60% dill. RUE range for dill was from 0.64 g.MJ-1 in monoculture to 1.02 g.MJ-1 in 40% fenugreek+ 60% dill.https://agry.um.ac.ir/article_34930_b2474d29b19c2a701eee035e74ce7123.pdf