sesamum indicum l.

GROWTH AND YIELD PERFORMANCE OF SESAME (SESAMUM INDICUM L.) VARIETIES AT VARYING LEVELS OF ROW SPACING

A Thesis submitted to the Agrotechnology Discipline in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Hons.)

BY S. M. ABDULLAH AL MAMUN ROLL NO. 020803 and NANDITA ROY ROLL NO. 030826

AGROTECHNOLOGY DISCIPLINE KHULNA UNIVERSITY KHULNA-9208 BANGLADESH

April, 2008 19

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First of all, the authors wish to express all their devotion and reverence to the Almighty Allah, most merciful beneficent creator who always helps for facing any difficulty and has enabled them to complete the research work and to prepare the thesis for the fulfillment of the degree of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Hons.).

It deems a proud privilege to express heartiest gratification, sincere appreciation, profound regard and heartiest indebtedness to their reverent teacher and supervisor Dr. Md. Sarwar Jahan, Associate Professor, Agrotechnology Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna, for his sincere interest, intellectual guidance, scholastic supervision and valuable suggestions throughout the work till the completion of the manuscript.

The authors also feel immense pleasure for having an opportunity in expressing gratefulness to Dr. Sanjoy Kumar Adhikary, Professor, Agrotechnology Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna and co-supervisor, for his valuable suggestions, constructive criticism and comments during research and preparing this manuscript.

They are grateful to their respected teacher Dr. Md. Yasin Ali, Professor and Head, Agrotechnology Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna and all other honorable teachers of the same Discipline, for their encouragement and valuable suggestions.

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They feel pleasure to thankfully remember Nivanon Kumar Roy, Skilled Farmer, Agrotechnology Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna, for his valuable and cordial help in carrying out the research work.

Last but not the least, they would like to take the privilege to express their pleasure that computerization of their thesis is completely done by themselves and acknowledge their over gratefulness to Sujit Sarder, an M.Sc. student, Agrotechnology Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna, who helped them in computer operation patiently.

Lastly the authors can not but express their heartful gratitude and indebtedness to their parents, brothers, sisters and other friends for their encourages, blessings, moral support, prayer and sacrifices which enabled them to complete this thesis with patience and perseverance.

April, 2008

The Authors

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THESIS ABSTRACT GROWTH AND YIELD PERFORMANCE OF SESAME (SESAMUM INDICUM L.) VARIETIES AT VARYING LEVELS OF ROW SPACING By S. M. Abdullah Al Mamun and Nandita Roy

A field experiment was conducted in the Field Laboratory of Agrotechnology Discipline in Khulna University to evaluate the effect of row spacing on the yield and yield contributing characters of sesame varieties during Kharif season, 2007. Three varieties of sesame (V1 = T6, V2 = Batiaghata local Til and V3 = BINA Til) and three row spacings (S1 = 15 cm, S2 = 30 cm and S3 = 45 cm) formed the treatment variables. The experiment was laid out in a double factor randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Crop growth, leaf number, yield contributing characters and yield were observed. Variety and row spacing significantly influenced almost all the growth and yield parameters studied. The highest seed yield was produced by the variety BINA Til and the lowest seed yield was produced by the variety Batiaghata local Til. Similarly the highest seed yield was produced by row spacing 30 cm and the lowest seed yield was produced by row spacing 45 cm. Interaction effect of variety and row spacing was significant on all plant characters studied except capsules plant-1. The highest seed yield was obtained from the variety BINA Til when grown in 30 cm row spacing and the lowest seed yield was produced by the variety Batiaghata local Til with a row spacing of 45 cm. Seed yield was well correlated with capsules plant-1, seeds capsule-1 and biological yield. Thus the 30 cm row spacing may be the best for sesame and the variety BINA Til may be the best among tested sesame varieties.

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CONTENTS Title Page ABSTRACT III LIST OF TABLES V LIST OF FIGURES VI LIST OF APPENDIX VII CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

1

CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

3

CHAPTER III

MATERIALS AND METHODS

12

CHAPTER IV

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

19

CHAPTER V

SUMMARY CONCLUSION

45

CHAPTER VI

REFERENCES

48

23

LIST OF TABLES Title

Page

Table 1.

Varietal differences in plant height of sesame over time

21

Table 2.

Effect of row spacing on plant height of sesame over time

22

Table 3.

Interaction effect of variety and row spacing on plant height of sesame over time

23

Table 4.

Varietal differences in leaf number of sesame over time

25

Table 5.

Effect of row spacing on leaf number of sesame over time

26

Table 6.

Interaction effect of variety and row spacing on leaf number of sesame over time

27

Table 7.

Varietal differences in flowering period of sesame

29

Table 8.

Effect of row spacing on flowering period of sesame

29

Table 9.

Interaction effect of variety and row spacing on flowering period of sesame

30

Table 10. Varietal differences in yield and yield contributing characters of sesame

42

Table 11. Effect of row spacing on yield and yield contributing characters of sesame

43

Table 12. Interaction effect of variety and row spacing on yield and yield contributing characters of sesame

24

44

LIST OF FIGURES Title Page Fig. 1.

Functional relationship between capsules plant -1 and seed yield plant -1 (g)

36

Fig. 2.

Functional relationship between seeds capsule -1 and seed yield plant -1 (g)

37

Fig. 3.

Functional relationship between biological yield plant -1 (g) and seed yield plant -1 (g)

38

25

LIST OF APPENDIX Title Page Appendix 1. Air temperature, relative humidity, soil temperature and rainfall during the growing period of sesame 61

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CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the most ancient oilseed crops (Bedigan and Harlan, 1986; Ashri, 1998) of the world. It is the second largest source of edible oil in Bangladesh next to Brassica both in respect of acreage and production (Anonymous, 1989). It occupies 80,000 ha of land and produces 49,000 tons of sesame (Wahhab et al., 2002). Its seed contains about 50% edible oil of high quality. It is a good source of vitamins viz. pantothenic acid and vitamin E. The seeds also contain important minerals such as calcium and phosphorus (Balasubramaniyan and Palaniappan, 2001).

In Bangladesh sesame can be cultivated both in Kharif (April-September) and Rabi season (October-March) but at present two third sesame is produced in Kharif season (Wahhab et al., 2002). Among the oil crops cultivated in the country, sesame draws the special attention of the researchers as it can be grown in early Kharif season when most of the land remain fallow (Sarder and Rosario, 1993). Under improved management conditions, per hectare yield of sesame may be 1000-1200 kg. However, the average yield level of sesame (500-600 kg ha -1 ) in Bangladesh is quite low (Khaleque and Begum, 1991). The low average yield of the crop might be due to cultivation of low yielding traditional varieties and poor management practices (Ali et al., 1997). Among the cultural practices, row spacing is one of the important components, manipulation of which could lead for optimizing yield. Population density has profound influence on grain yield (Islam, 1986). The plant density can be adjusted by the use of either

27

different seed rates or different row spacings. Optimum planting density enables the sesame plant to grow properly both in its aerial and underground parts by utilizing maximum radiant energy, space and water which ultimately leads to boost crop production (Miah et al., 1990). In densely populated sesame fields, the intra-specific competition between the plants is high which sometimes results in lower grain yield. On the contrary, sparsely populated fields with wider spacing lead to uneconomic utilization of space, profuse growth of weeds and pests and reduction of yield per unit area. Gupta (1982) obtained maximum sesame yield from the plants grown at 30 cm × 15 cm spacing. Venkatesan et al. (1983) reported that sesame grown at plant spacing of 40 cm × 30 cm gave the highest seed yield in the summer season while in the monsoon season, maximum seed yield was obtained at 30 cm × 30 cm. However, Sharma (1994) showed that spacing had no significant effects on yield and yield components. Improved and high yielding cultivars of sesame can give 15-40% more yield than local traditional cultivars (Anonymous, 1996). Similarly Chen et al. (1994) reported that sesame cultivar Zhong Zhi 9 out yielded the control cultivar Wulinghei by 32.9%.

Keeping the views like inter-plant competition for optimum plant nutrients, sun light, moisture and aeration in mind, it may be required to find out a fair combination of row spacing to achieve maximum yield under certain agroclimatic conditions. Hence, this study was designed to see the effect of row spacing on yield components and yield of three sesame cultivars under the agroecological conditions of Khulna.

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CHAPTER II REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Crop plants are usually grown in community. Growth and development of sesame plants are greatly influenced by the environmental factors (i.e. water, light, temperature, etc.), variety used and agronomic practices (i.e. planting density, fertilizer, irrigation, etc.). Among the factors planting density is one of the most important ones. Crop yield is determined by the effectiveness with which the community of crop plants exploits its environmental resources. Row spacing has profound effect on the yield and yield contributing characters of sesame. This demands the proper identification of optimum row spacing for its yield maximization. The works in this line in the country are a few and sporadic. However, in this section a brief but exclusive review of the works on plant density of sesame done in the recent past has been attempted.

Effect of Variety on Productivity Variety may have variable effect on different plant characters of sesame. Uddin and Mitra (1994) conducted an experiment with some genotypes of sesame and observed that significant variation was present among the genotypes in respect of all characters studied (branches plant-1, capsules plant-1, seeds capsule-1, days to maturity, days to flowering and seed yield plant-1) except 1000 seed weight. Begum et al. (2001) carried out an experiment with variety T 6 and variety Lal Til and found that the varieties differed significantly for the studied characters except 1000 seed weight. T6 performed better in terms of seed yield, capsule number plant-1 and plant height, whereas the Lal Til variety was superior for branch and stalk production.

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Balasubramaiyan (1996) conducted an experiment with variety TMV3 and variety VS350 of sesame and observed that pre-released culture VS350 yielded more (711 kg ha-1) than variety TMV3 (636 kg ha-1). Kadir et al. (1996) carried out an experiment on genetic parameters, character association and path analysis in sesame and observed that branches plant-1, days to 50% flowering, capsules plant-1, seeds capsule-1 and 1000 seed weight had the positive and significant association with seed yield both at phenotypic and genotypic levels. Mondal (1983) conducted an experiment with exotic and indigenous strains of safflower and observed that significant differences were present in plant height, number of primary branches plant-1, number of heads plant-1, days to maturity, seed yield plant1,

seed yield ha-1 and oil content between the exotic and indigenous strains of safflower.

Ramirez et al. (2005) carried out an experiment with salt tolerance of sesame genotypes and suggested that sesame tolerance to CaCl2 salinity improved through the growing season and may be genetically controlled.

Effect of Plant Density on Productivity There have been numerous studies on the yield density relationship (Donald, 1963; Willey and Heath, 1969) with wide variety of crops; but the concept of optimum population density for maximum yield has not been figured out (Duncan, 1986). Success of a genotype or variety in a competitive environment depends on its competitive ability (Jennings and Acquino, 1968) or capacity for resource captures (Grime, 1979). Within the species there exists also competition. Plant density plays an important role in the dominance and suppression during the process of completion of two or more species having similar life forms.

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Shinozaki and Kira (1956) derived asymptotic relationship between the vegetative yield and plant density. Holliday (1960) characterized the yield density relationship using a parabolic function for grain crops and cereals. Mazzani and Cobo (1958) observed in two plot trials with the sesame variety, Aceitera which was grown at 9 plant densities ranging from 71,400 to 666,000 plants ha -1. The highest density gave seed yields upto 62% higher than that obtained from the lowest density. When the planting density exceeds an optimum level, plant growth slows down and the grain yield decreases (Prasad and De Datta, 1979). Most cereals show a wide plateau in their yield response to plant population (Francis et al., 1982). Plant population regulates canopy structure. It is the density of a plant community that affects the growth of plant species and consequently the dry matter production of the community (Bhuiyan et al., 1984). Madhavan et al. (1986) reported that increased planting density significantly increases dry matter production, leaf area index (LAI) and crop growth rate (CGR) and relative growth rate (RGR) during later stage of the growth. Plant density,

species

proportion,

and

spatial

arrangements

are

important

considerations that mediate the influence of environmental and biological factors (Radosevich, 1987). Plant growth is affected greatly by the planting density. Population density regulates the plant form which eventually has large bearing on the yield production (Fukai et al., 1990). Gerakis and Tsangarakis (1969) conducted a field experiment on sesame near Plobeide, Sudan and observed that yields were increased when plant population was raised from 80,000 to 1,20,000 plants ha-1.

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Effect of Plant Density on Plant Height Row spacing influences plant height due to interplant competition. In an experiment Ashley and Boerma (1988) found that plant height increased from 68 to 84 cm as the row spacing has been increased from 25 to 91 cm of soybean. Wankhede and Salami (1970) reported that different levels of population density had no effect on the height of individual plant of Indian rape. Scarisbrick et al. (1982) stated that a negative relationship existed between plant height and higher plant density of rape. Butter and Aulakh (1999) conducted a study on Indian mustard cv. RLM 619 maintaining row spacings (15, 22.5 and 30 cm). They observed that row spacing had no significant effect on plant height.

Effect of Plant Density on Yield and Yield Attributes Gangasarn et al. (1981) observed that siliqua weight of brown sarson significantly influenced the seed yield, whereas siliqua length and siliqua diameter had a marginal effect. Angadi et al. (2003) reported that with the decrease of seed rate of canola, size of siliqua increased.

Row spacing influences the number of seeds pod -1 . In soybean, Shanawas (2005) reported the highest number of seeds pod -1 (2.45) from variety G-2 at 40 cm row spacing and the lowest seeds pod -1 (1.54) from variety G-2 at 30 cm row spacing. Singh and Singh (1984) reported that the number of seeds siliqua -1 increased in Indian rape as the plant density decreased.

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Mc Vetty et al. (1988) reported that seed rate had positive correlation with the number of seeds siliqua -1 in mustard. Thomas (1984) found that with the increase in row spacing number of seeds capsule -1 decreased in canola.

Row spacing influences the 1000 seed weight. Angadi et al. (2003) reported that with the increase in row spacing of canola, 1000 seed weight increased. Hwu and Thseng (1982) stated that spacing had no significant effect on 1000 seed weight in rice. Babu et al. (1998); Akhtaruzzaman (2000) and Hanif (2004) stated that increased of row spacing from 15 to 40 cm in soybean increase 1000 seed weight. Mojumdar (2005) and Islam (2004) found higher 1000 seed weight in variety PB-1 (11.52 g) than variety G-2 (6.42 g) in soybean.

Seed yield increased with increased plant population but this relationship was found parabolic (Downey, 1971). Donald (1963) and Stern (1965) found that at high plant density, growth was greatly reduced if inter plant competition developed earlier and became progressively more severe and if densities were sufficiently high some plants would die. As density increased beyond this point, dry matter production remained constant but the grain yield gradually declined (Donald, 1963; Donald and Hamblin, 1976). Narain and Srivesteva (1962) conducted an experiment to compare between row spacing of 30, 45 and 60 cm and within row spacing of 15, 30 and 45 cm for M 12 sesame variety, and found that the highest sesame seed tended to result from spacing of 15 cm × 30 cm or 30 cm × 30 cm.

33

Angadi et al. (2003) reported that reducing plant population by half from 80 to 40 plants m -2 did not reduce seed yield but seed yield declined as population dropped below 40 plants m -2 . Gowda (1974) conducted an experiment with 3 sesame cultivars grown at 3 spacing. He found that cv. Dharwar local grown at 30 cm × 10 cm gave the highest seed yields of 1440 kg ha-1. Singh and Kaushal (1973) studied on Sesamum indicum L. grown at between plant spacing of 15, 20 or 25 cm and in rows 25, 35 or 45 cm apart which gave the highest seed yields of 791 kg ha-1 at spacing of 15 cm × 45 cm. The highest seed yield in soybean was obtained with the closest (20 cm) row spacing among the three spacings 20, 30 and 40 cm. The increasing of row spacing from 15 to 100 cm decreased seed yield (Flenet et al., 1996; Mirsha et al., 1996; Kurmvanshi et al., 1996; Tourino et al., 2002; Ventimiglia et al., 1999; Devlin et al., 1995 and Nenadic and Solvic, 1994). Bryan et al. (2001) recommended that a seeding rate of canola between 10 and 15 seeds ft -2 resulted in optimum economic yield. Rheenen (1973) described the traditional methods of growing of sesame in Nigeria. The Igbirra variety was sown on ridges about 4 m apart and with 145 cm between groups of about 16 plants, where as Tiv was sown broadest to give about 67,300 plants ha-1. Experiments with sesame sown on ridges 91 cm apart showed that the optimum spacing was about 6 cm between plant ridges. But sowings on the flat gave maximum yield at spacing of 22 cm × 13 cm. Fredrick et al. (1998) found 53 and 83% greater seed yield in soybean grown with 19 cm row width than grown at 76 cm row width. Hanif (2004) observed the highest seed yield (2.09 t ha -1 ) in the variety Sohag with 15 cm row spacing.

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Grateral and Montilla (2003) found 25% more grain yield in the 45 cm row spacing compared to that in the 60 cm in soybean and concluded that grain yield increased as plant population increased. In Poland, Walkowshi (2001) conducted an experiment on spring rapeseed with different seed rates (80, 120, 160 and 200 seeds m -2 ) and sowing date (early sowing and two weeks delayed) and the highest yields were obtained under the combination of 160-200 seeds m -2 and early sowing time; and 120-160 seeds m 2

and early sowing time respectively.

Mudholkar and Ahlawat (1981) reported that a density level of 16.6 plants m -2 was superior to seed drilling with 2 kg seeds ha -1 in 30 cm apart in row for rapeseed. Kondra (1975) showed that narrower row spacing 15 cm apart at seed rate of 3 kg ha -1 , recorded the highest seed yield in rapeseed. Olive and Cano (1954) conducted trials with sesame varieties e.g. Venezuela 51, which had one central stem only, Venezuela 52 with few branches and Criolla with many branches. The row widths tested were 30, 60 and 90 cm; the spacing between hills were 10, 20 and 30 cm; and the number of plants per hill were 1, 2 and 3. The spacing of 30 cm × 10 cm gave the highest yields. Highly significant differences in yield were obtained according to varieties. The different spacing between hills and the different numbers of plants per hill gave similar yields. Ahuja et al. (1971) found that there were non significant differences between seed yields of sesame grown in rows of 30, 37.5 and 45 cm apart.

Smith (1970) and Song (1989) reported that the straw yield increased when the spacing was decreased. They also found that straw yield of rice increased with

35

increasing plant density and plant density also had a marked effect on the crude cellulose content. Islam (1999) reported that leaf area index (LAI) and total dry matter (TDM) production increased with increasing plant density in several legume crops. Ibrahim (1996) reported that the dry matter accumulation plant -1 , leaf N, CO2 intake and most yield components decreased with increasing row spacing. Singh and Singh (1984) observed that when population density of 33.3 plants m -2 was maintained, it gave higher straw yields. Mellroy (1967) stated that between row spacing for sesame should be 22.5 cm to 30 cm and 30 cm, respectively. Mc Kenzie et al. (1992) reported that higher plant population enhanced canopy closure and increased interception of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) which is needed for carbohydrate production in the plant.

Planting density influenced harvest index (HI) as reported by Sahu et al. (1980) in rice. Shahi et al. (1996) reported that the harvest index of rice declined with decreased spacing. Akhtaruzzaman (2000) found the highest harvest index (48%) in 30 cm among four row spacings of 15, 20, 25 and 30 cm of soybean. Bryan et al. (2001) found that the seed rate 5.61 to 9.0 kg ha -1 produced the highest harvest index of canola. Shanawas (2005) found the highest harvest index (40.16%) in variety BS-5 at 20 cm row spacing and the lowest (28.13%) in variety G-2 at 20 cm row spacing of soybean.

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Mojumder (2005) found greater harvest index (44.39%) of soybean variety PB1 than variety G-2 (40.91%). In another studies, he found greater harvest index of variety G-2 (40.08%) than variety PB-1 (37.82%). Cano and Lopez (1951) recommended the varieties of sesame, Venezuela 51 and Venezuela 52 for Flsalvador to be sown at 60 cm × 10 cm and 90 cm × 30 cm spacing, respectively. Increasing density generally decreased harvest index, but the differences were rather small. Such a slight change in HI also supports the idea that the highest density used was lower than the optimum density for obtaining higher yield. Generally optimum density increases harvest index under favorable growing conditions with resources being unlimited (Keating et al., 1991).

37

CHAPTER III MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this chapter, materials used and methods followed in carrying out the present experiment have been stated which include a short description of crop, experimental site, soil, treatment, layout, statistical design, intercultural operations, data recording, data processing and data analysis, etc.

Site and Soil A field experiment was conducted in the Agrotechnology Field Laboratory, Khulna University, Khulna during the period from April 2007 to July 2007 to study the effect of row spacing on the yield and yield components of three sesame varieties. The experimental land was medium high and the soil was clayloam in texture.

Climate The experimental location experiences a sub-tropical climate. The data on monthly rainfall, average maximum and minimum temperature (°C), maximum and minimum relative humidity (%), soil temperature (°C) etc. during the study period recorded in the Regional Meteorological Station (Khulna) are presented in Appendix 1.

Experimental Materials Three varieties of sesame namely T6, Batiaghata local Til and BINA Til were used as planting materials. Seeds of T6 were collected from Upazila Agricultural

38

Office, Batiaghata, Khulna; that of Batiaghata local Til from a farmer named Nivanon Kumar Roy, Batiaghata, Khulna and that of BINA Til from Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Jessore.

Experimental Treatment The experiment consisted of the following treatments: A. Variety: 3 i. T 6 (V 1 ) ii. Batiaghata local Til (V 2 ) iii. BINA Til (V 3 ) B. Row to row spacing: 3 i. 15 cm (S 1 ) ii. 30 cm (S 2 ) iii. 45 cm (S3 )

Experimental Design and Layout The experiment was laid out in a double factor randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The size of each unit plot was 3 m × 2 m. The total number of treatments was 27. The distance between two adjacent unit plots and that of blocks were 0.25 m and 0.75 m, respectively.

Land Preparation The experimental land was first opened with the spades. Opened soil was then brought into desirable tilth by 4 operations of ploughing and harrowing. All

39

uprooted weeds, stubbles and residues were removed from the soil. The land was finally prepared with spades. The land was leveled smoothly.

Fertilizer Application The experimental plots were fertilized with poultry litter @ of 3 t ha -1 during land preparation. Other fertilizers @ 60 kg N, 175 kg P 2 0 5 , 60 kg K 2 0 and 120 kg gypsum per hectare respectively, were applied at the time of final land preparation. All fertilizers were incorporated into the soil before sowing of seeds. Additional quantity of 60 kg N per hectare was top-dressed during flower initiation in the form of urea.

Sowing of Seeds Seeds were sown on April 18, 2007 in solid lines with plant spacings 15 cm × 10 cm, 30 cm × 10 cm, 45 cm × 10 cm. Sowing was done manually. Seeds were placed at 2 cm soil depth and then rows were covered with loose soil properly. The seedling emerged between April 23-25, 2007. Missing hills were sown with seeds to maintain desired plant population.

Weeding and Thinning Weeding followed by thinning was done at 12 days of emergence and 20 days after emergence. Thinning was done several times in all the unit plots with utmost care to maintain a constant plant population in each row. The weeding operation was conducted also in the field as and when necessary to keep the experimental plots weed free.

40

Irrigation Irrigation was done at 2 days after sowing to facilitate germination of seeds and before flowering in order to maintain adequate moisture in the field.

Pest Control Some of the experimental plots were attacked by stink bug, mainly the plots of the variety T 6 . To control the bugs insecticide Malathion 57 EC was applied twice @ 0.2%.

Harvesting and Threshing At maturity (when about 80% of capsules turned brown colour) the experimental crop was harvested variety-wise. The harvested plants were tied into bundles and carried to the threshing floor of the Agrotechnology Field Laboratory. The crops were sun dried by spreading on the threshing floor. The seeds were separated from the pods by beating with bamboo sticks and later were cleaned and well dried.

Data Collection Data were collected for the following parameters. i.

Plant height (cm)

ii.

Number of leaves plant -1

iii.

Days to first flowering

iv.

Days to 50% flowering

v.

Number of capsules plant -1

vi.

Length of capsule (cm)

41

vii.

Number of seeds capsule -1

viii.

1000 seed weight (g)

ix.

Seed yield plant -1 (g)

x.

Seed yield (t ha -1 )

xi.

Biological yield (t ha -1)

xii.

Harvest index (%)

Plant height (cm) The height of five randomly selected plants was measured at 12 days interval beginning from 15 days after emergence (DAE) from the ground level to the tip of the plant and mean plant height was recorded in cm.

Number of leaves plant -1 The number of leaves of the five sample plants were counted and recorded at 12 days interval from 15 DAE and mean value was taken.

Days to first flowering The date of first flower initiation was recorded for each plot of the experimental field.

Days to 50% flowering The date of 50% flowering was also recorded for each plot of the experimental field.

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Number of capsules plant -1 The number of capsules of each sample plant was counted and the mean was found out.

Length of capsule (cm) The length of the capsule of five selected capsule from each plant was measured from the base of the capsule to the tip of the capsule and the mean value was taken in cm.

Number of seeds capsule -1 The number of seeds capsule -1 was counted by splitting five capsules per plant of the selected five plants and the mean was recorded.

1000 seed weight (g) From the seed stock of the selected five plants, 1000 seeds were randomly collected and weight was taken by an electric balance. The 1000 seed weight was recorded in g at 14% moisture level. The weight of the seed was converted to 14% moisture level by using the following formula. X × (1+ 0.14) X = Weight of the seed at 0% moisture level.

Seed yield plant -1 (g) The selected five plants were harvested at maturity from each plot of the experimental field and threshed, dried to 14% moisture level and the weight of seeds per plant was recorded in g.

43

Seed yield (t ha -1 ) The whole plot was harvested at maturity, threshed, dried and the value was converted to t ha -1 .

Biological yield (t ha -1 ) The weights of the seeds as well as the straw were taken and by summing the seed weight and straw weight, the biological yield was calculated and expressed in t ha -1 .

Harvest index (%) The harvest index was calculated on the ratio of economic yield to biological yield (seed + stover) and expressed in percentage. It was calculated by using the following formula (Donald, 1963).

Economic yield Harvest index (%) =

× 100 Biological yield

Statistical Analysis The collected data were analyzed statistically by using analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique with the help of computer package MSTAT-C. The mean differences among the treatments were compared by Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT) (Gomez and Gomez, 1984). Functional relationships were developed between growth parameters and yield and yield attributes by using simple regression analysis.

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CHAPTER IV RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The experiment was conducted to study the performance of three sesame varieties as influenced by row spacing. The results obtained in this experiment are presented and discussed below.

Plant Growth Characters Plant height (cm) Plant height is an important morphological character that acts as a potent indicator of availability of growth resources in its vicinity. Plant height at maturity varied significantly among different varieties in this study (Table 1). The progressive increase of plant height was about similar for all treatments upto 15 DAE. Plant height increased from 15 to 51 DAE, thereafter rate of increase was very slow. At 87 DAE taller plants (132.10 cm) were found in T6 than Batiaghata local Til (123.10 cm) and BINA Til (128.20 cm). The difference in plant height might be associated with the varietal characteristics. Ali and Rahman (1986) observed significant variation in plant height in different varieties of mustard and rapeseed. Begum et al. (2001) also reported variation in height of plants among sesame varieties.

Row spacings showed significant influence on plant height (Table 2). The highest plant height was produced by 15 cm row spacings at all the sampling dates followed by 30 cm row spacing. The lowest plant height was produced by 45 cm row spacing. Decreased row spacing gradually increased the plant height. Plant competition due to crowding for space might be the cause for elongation of the densely populated plants

45

(Willey and Heath, 1969). But this result is contradictory as mentioned by Gupta (1988), who recorded significantly taller plants of mustard with wider spacing.

The interaction of variety and row spacing showed significant influence on plant height (Table 3). It was observed that the highest plant height (139.50 cm) was found from the combination of variety T 6 with 15 cm row spacing and the lowest plant height (118.20 cm) was produced by Batiaghata local Til with 45 cm row spacing at 87 DAE.

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Table 1. Varietal differences in plant height of sesame over time Plant height (cm) Variety

15 DAE

27 DAE

39 DAE

51 DAE

63 DAE

75 DAE

87 DAE

T6

3.13

13.01b

37.90b

76.69b

110.70a

124.50a

132.10a

Batiaghata local Til

3.17

9.53c

25.56c

66.64c

102.30c

119.60c

123.10c

BINA Til

3.44

14.21a

44.64a

81.60a

106.10b

123.20b

128.20b

Level of significance

NS

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

CV (%)

7.75

3.30

1.60

0.97

0.44

0.38

0.27

NS = Non-significant DAE = Days after emergence

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Table 2. Effect of row spacing on plant height of sesame over time Row spacing

Plant height (cm)

(cm)

15 DAE

27 DAE

39 DAE

51 DAE

63 DAE

75 DAE

87 DAE

15

3.35

12.38

38.14a

80.42a

113.80a

130.70a

135.00a

30

3.21

12.26

35.86b

74.90b

106.80b

122.50b

126.30b

45

3.18

12.12

34.10c

69.61c

98.56c

114.20c

122.00c

NS

NS

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

7.75

3.30

1.60

0.97

0.44

0.38

0.27

Level of significance CV (%)

NS = Non-significant DAE = Days after emergence

48

Table 3. Interaction effect of variety and row spacing on plant height of sesame over time Plant height (cm)

Variety × Row spacing

15 DAE

27 DAE

39 DAE

51 DAE

63 DAE

75 DAE

87 DAE

V 1 S1

3.53

13.70a

42.47b

86.53a

118.40a

134.80a

139.50a

V 1 S2

3.03

12.73b

40.27c

77.80d

112.90c

126.90c

130.90c

V 1 S3

2.83

12.60b

30.97d

65.73f

100.90g

111.90i

125.70e

V 2 S1

3.20

9.36c

26.57e

70.53e

108.00d

124.80d

128.80d

V 2 S2

3.10

9.66c

24.63f

66.13f

102.00f

119.10f

122.40f

V 2 S3

3.23

9.56c

25.47f

63.27g

96.97h

114.70h

118.20g

V 3 S1

3.33

14.07a

45.40a

84.20b

115.00b

132.30b

136.70b

V 3 S2

3.50

14.37a

42.67b

80.77c

105.60e

121.40e

125.70e

V 3 S3

3.50

14.20a

45.87a

79.83c

97.77h

115.90g

122.10f

NS

0.05

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

7.75

3.30

1.60

0.97

0.44

0.38

0.27

Level of significance CV (%) V 1 = T6

NS = Non-significant

V 2 = Batiaghata local Til

DAE = Days after emergence

V 3 = BINA Til S1 = 15 cm S 2 = 30 cm S 3 = 45 cm 49

Leaf number Biomass production of a crop plant depends almost wholly on the amount and pattern of photoactive radiation (PhAR) intercepted and absorbed by the crop and the efficiency of the crop to use the absorbed radiation. The interception of PhAR by a crop surface is the function of leaf area and the posture of the leaves on the plant (Jahan and Hamid, 2006). Both leaf area and leaf posture are depended on number of leaves plant1.

There was significant variation in number of leaves plant-1 among the varieties tested

(Table 4). Leaf number increased from 27 to 63 DAE, thereafter rate of increase was slow. Higher number of leaves plant-1 (71.20) was produced by the variety T6 and lower number of leaves plant-1 (65.62) was produced by the variety BINA Til.

Number of leaves was significantly influenced by row spacings (Table 5). The highest number of leaves plant -1 (72.16) was produced by the widest row spacing and the lowest number of leaves plant -1 (65.62) was produced by the narrowest row spacing.

The interaction of variety and row spacing showed significant influence on leaves plant -1 (Table 6). The highest number of leaves (75.83) was produced by the interaction of the variety T 6 and 45 cm row spacing and the lowest number of leaves (64.07) was produced by the variety BINA Til with 15 cm row spacing. Initially the leaf number plant -1 was non-significant upto 27 DAE. But as plant grows, a point is reached at which each plant begins to compete for essential growth resources like nutrients, space, light and water etc. and showed significant influence on leaf number.

50

Table 4. Varietal differences in leaf number of sesame over time Leaf number Variety

15 DAE

27 DAE

39 DAE

51 DAE

63 DAE

75 DAE

87 DAE

T6

3.74

13.01b

18.16ab

46.42b

60.72a

66.62a

71.20a

Batiaghata local Til

3.62

11.98c

18.84a

47.14a

58.56b

64.27b

68.78b

BINA Til

3.58

14.21a

17.87b

46.20b

54.74c

62.14c

65.62c

Level of significance

NS

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

CV (%)

4.43

3.14

2.60

0.88

1.30

1.17

0.72

NS = Non-significant DAE = Days after emergence

51

Table 5. Effect of row spacing on leaf number of sesame over time Row spacing

Leaf number

(cm)

15 DAE

27 DAE

39 DAE

51 DAE

63 DAE

75 DAE

87 DAE

15

3.57

13.38

17.91b

46.40b

54.90c

61.73c

65.62c

30

3.70

12.92

17.61b

45.39c

58.13b

64.12b

67.82b

45

3.67

12.90

19.34a

47.98a

60.99a

67.18a

72.16a

significance

NS

NS

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

CV (%)

4.43

3.14

2.60

0.88

1.30

1.17

0.72

Level of

NS = Non-significant DAE = Days after emergence

52

Table 6. Interaction effect of variety and row spacing on leaf number of sesame over time Leaf number

Variety × Row spacing

15 DAE

27 DAE

39 DAE

51 DAE

63 DAE

75 DAE

87 DAE

V1 S1

3.66

13.70

18.30c

47.20b

55.93d

62.40d

67.37d

V1 S2

3.73

12.73

16.90d

42.67e

61.87b

67.67b

70.40c

V1 S3

3.83

12.60

19.27ab

49.40a

64.37a

69.80a

75.83a

V2 S1

3.53

12.37

18.47bc

46.27cd

55.53de

61.33de

65.43e

V2 S2

3.76

11.67

18.53bc

47.53b

58.27c

64.27c

67.40d

V2 S3

3.56

11.90

19.53a

47.63b

61.87b

67.20b

73.50b

V3 S1

3.53

14.07

16.97d

45.73d

53.23f

61.47de

64.07f

V3 S2

3.60

14.37

17.40d

45.97d

54.27ef

60.43e

65.67e

V3 S3

3.63

14.20

19.23ab

46.90bc

56.73d

64.53c

67.13d

NS

NS

0.05

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

4.43

3.14

2.60

0.88

1.30

1.17

0.72

Level of significance CV (%) V1 = T6

NS = Non-significant

V 2 = Batiaghata local Til

DAE = Days after emergence

V 3 = BINA Til S 1 = 15 cm S 2 = 30 cm S 3 = 45 cm 53

Flowering Flowering of the sesame was significantly influenced by varieties (Table 7). The variety BINA Til took the minimum period for first flowering (36.00 days) as well as for 50% flowering (42.67 days). The variety Batiaghata local Til required maximum time for first flowering (42.11 days) and 50% flowering (49.00 days). Kadir et al. (1996) observed that days to flowering had the positive and significant association with varieties.

Row spacings significantly influenced the flowering period of sesame varieties (Table 8). Both first flowering (38.00 days) and 50% flowering (44.56 days) was obtained from 15 cm row spacing while maximum period for first flowering (41.67 days) as well as was 50% flowering (49.11 days) was obtained from 45 cm row spacing.

No significant influence of the interaction of variety and row spacing on flower initiation and 50% flowering was recorded (Table 9).

54

Table 7. Varietal differences in flowering period of sesame

Variety

Days required for 1 st flowering

50% flowering

T6

41.00a

48.78a

Batiaghata local Til

42.11a

49.00a

BINA Til

36.00b

42.67b

Level of significance

0.01

0.01

CV (%)

1.64

2.04

Table 8. Effect of row spacing on flowering period of sesame Row spacing

Days required for

(cm)

1 st flowering

50% flowering

15

38.00c

44.56c

30

39.44b

46.78b

45

41.67a

49.11a

significance

0.01

0.01

CV (%)

1.64

2.04

Level of

55

Table 9. Interaction effect of variety and row spacing on flowering period of sesame Variety × Row

Days required for

spacing

1 st flowering

50% flowering

V1 S1

39.33

46.67

V1 S2

40.67

49.00

V1 S3

43.00

50.67

V2 S1

40.33

46.67

V2 S2

41.67

48.67

V2 S3

44.33

51.67

V3 S1

34.33

40.33

V3 S2

36.00

42.67

V3 S3

37.67

45.00

NS

NS

1.64

2.04

Level of significance CV (%) V 1 = T6

NS= Non-significant

V 2 = Batiaghata local Til V 3 = BINA Til S 1 = 15 cm S 2 = 30 cm S 3 = 45 cm

56

Yield and Yield Attributes Capsules plant -1 Number of capsules plant -1 was significantly influenced by varieties (Table 10). The variety T 6 produced the highest number of capsules plant -1 (65.56) and the variety BINA Til produced the lowest number of capsules plant -1 (56.40). These results are in agreement with that of Kathiresan (2002) and Subrahmaniyan et al. (1999), Tiwari et al. (2000). They reported that the number of capsules plant 1

varied significantly in different cultivars. Dubey et al. (1995) also observed

significant effect of varieties on pods plant -1 in spring soybean. Variable effect of varieties on capsules plant -1 in sesame plant was also reported by Begum et al. (2001).

Different row spacings exerted a remarkable effect on capsules plant -1 (Table 11). Narrow spacing (15 cm) gave the lower number of capsules plant -1 (39.27). Maximum number of capsules plant -1 (76.89) was recorded in the highest spacing (45 cm). This increase in capsule number plant -1 in wider row spacing might be attributed to wider row spacing and less inter or intra plant competition in the community. Similar trend in number of capsules plant -1 in sesame was reported by Tomar et al. (1992). Singh and Yadav (1987) also reported an increase in pods plant -1 due to increase in row spacing in field peas.

The interaction effect of variety and row spacing on the number of capsules plant -1 was non-significant (Table 12). However, the highest number of capsules plant -1 (82.00) was recorded in the highest spacing (45 cm) with the variety T 6 . The lowest number of capsules plant -1 (34.70) was obtained in the lowest

57

spacing (15 cm) with the variety BINA Til. This reduction might be due to extreme limitation of spacing and leaves (sink) for the formation and development of capsules.

Capsule length (cm) Varieties showed significant difference in length of capsule in sesame (Table 10). The variety BINA Til produced longer capsule (3.15 cm) and the variety Batiaghata local Til produced shorter capsule (2.00 cm). Rahman et al. (1995) also found variation in capsule length in two sesame varieties grown during Kharif season. Hussain et al. (1996) observed the longest siliqua (8.07 cm) in BLN-900 and the shortest siliqua length (4.83 cm) in Hyola-401 of mustard. Ghose (2003) observed significant effect of varieties on panicle length of rice.

Row spacings significantly influenced the length of capsule (Table 11). The longest capsule (2.64 cm) was obtained from 45 cm row spacing and the shortest capsule (2.37 cm) was obtained from 15 cm row spacing. Singh and Singh (1984) and Shrief et al. (1990) reported that wider spacing increased the siliqua length in Indian rapeseed.

The interaction of variety and row spacing had significant effect on the length of capsule (Table 12). The maximum length of capsule (3.26 cm) was recorded in highest spacing (45 cm) with the variety BINA Til and the lowest length of capsule (1.82 cm) was obtained in the lowest spacing (15 cm) with the variety Batiaghata local Til.

58

Number of seeds capsule -1 Number of seeds capsule -1 was significantly influenced by varieties (Table 10). The variety BINA Til produced the highest number of seeds capsule -1 (86.16) and the variety Batiaghata local Til produced the lowest number of seeds capsule -1 (61.41). These findings corroborated with those reported by Kathiresan (2002). Das et al. (1999) reported that MM 7 (Mutant) produced the highest number of seeds pod -1 (29.2) followed by MM 20 (Mutant) (28.0) and BINA Sharisha 4 (27.8) at Dinajpur. Variable effect of varieties on seeds capsule -1 in sesame plant was also reported by Begum et al. (2001).

The number of seeds capsule -1 varied significantly by different row spacings (Table 11). The widest row spacing (45 cm) produced the highest number of seeds capsule -1 (82.46) and the narrowest (15 cm) row spacing produced the lowest number of seeds capsule -1 (62.11). Decrease in row spacing increased intra-specific competition which eventually caused reduction in the number of seeds capsule -1 . Thomas (1984) found that with the increase of row spacing number of seeds capsule -1 decreased.

The interaction of variety and row spacing on the number of seeds capsule -1 was significant (Table 12). The interaction of the highest row spacing (45 cm) with the variety BINA Til resulted in the highest number of seeds capsule -1 . This might be attributed to the less competition for assimilate during seed development. The interaction of the lowest row spacing (15 cm) with the variety Batiaghata local Til resulted in the lowest number of seeds capsule -1 . This might be attributed to the more competition for assimilate during seed development.

59

1000 seed weight (g) 1000 seed weight was greatly influenced by varieties (Table 10). The variety T6 and BINA Til produced heavier seeds (2.98 g) and the variety Batiaghata local Til produced lighter seeds (2.97 g). Kadir et al. (1996) observed that 1000 seed weight had the positive and significant association with varieties. However, different authors such as Tiwari et al. (2000), Sharma and Kakati (1993) and Begum et al. (2001) found no significant difference among the varieties regarding 1000 seeds weight.

Different row spacings significantly influenced 1000 seed weight in sesame (Table 11). The highest 1000 seed weight (2.99 g) was recorded in the widest spacing (45 cm). The lowest 1000 seed weight (2.97 g) was found in the lowest (15 cm) and medium row spacing (30 cm) which was statistically different from the highest row spacing effect. Decrease in row spacing increased intra-specific competition which eventually caused reduction in yield attributes. Similar results were observed by Islam (1992) in Brassica species.

1000 seed weight was significantly influenced by the interaction of variety and row spacing (Table 12). The interaction of the highest row spacing (45 cm) with the variety T6 resulted in the highest weight of 1000 seeds (3.11 g). The interaction of the lowest row spacing (15 cm) with the variety Batiaghata local Til resulted in the lowest weight of 1000 seeds (2.77 g).

60

Seed yield plant -1 (g) Seed yield in sesame is a function of capsule length, capsules plant -1 and seeds capsule -1 (Hunsigi and Krishna, 1998; Rahman et al., 1995). It was observed that there was significant difference in seed yield plant -1 among the varieties tested (Table 10). The variety T 6 produced the highest seed yield plant -1 (11.30 g) and the variety Batiaghata local Til produced the lowest seed yield plant -1 (8.22 g). Begum et al. (2001) observed that seed yield plant -1 was significantly influenced by the varieties of sesame.

Different row spacing significantly influenced seed yield plant -1. With the decrease in row spacing there is a gradual decrease in seed yield plant -1 in sesame (Table 11). Lower spacing (15 cm) gave lower seed yield plant -1 (5.14 g). Higher seed yield plant -1 (14.35 g) was recorded in the highest spacing (45 cm). Low row spacing reduced seed yield plant -1 due to inter and intra plants competition for necessary resources required for growth and development of seed. The reduction in seed yield plant -1 might be attributed to the smaller seed size with increasing population density (Tomar et al., 1992).

The interaction effect of variety and row spacing on the seed yield plant -1 was significant (Table 12). The highest seed yield plant -1 (16.08 g) was recorded in the highest spacing (45 cm) with the variety T 6 . The lowest seed yield plant -1 (4.21 g) was obtained in the lowest spacing (15 cm) with the variety Batiaghata local Til.

61

Seed yield plant-1 (g) showed a positive and linear relationship with capsules plant-1 (Fig. 1). The higher value of R2 (R2 ═ 0.832) suggests that 83% of the variations in seed yield plant -1 could be explained by the variation in capsule number plant -1.

16

y = 0.2305x - 3.7948 R2 = 0.832

Seed yield plant

-1

(g)

20

12 8 4 0 0

15

30

45

60

Capsules plant

75

90

-1

Fig. 1. Functional relationship between capsules plant -1 and seed yield plant -1 (g) Seed yield plant-1 (g) when plotted against seeds capsule-1 yielded a straight line. This suggests that seed yield plant-1 (g) is dependent on seeds capsule-1 and more than 65% (R2 ═ 0.6701) of the variation in seed yield plant-1 could be defined by variation in seeds capsule-1 (Fig. 2).

16

y = 0.2545x - 8.5014 R2 = 0.6701

Seed yield plant

-1

(g)

20

12 8 4 0 0

20

40

60

Seeds capsule -1

80

100

Fig. 2. Functional relationship between seeds capsule -1 and seed yield plant -1 (g)

62

Plotting seed yield plant-1 (g) against biological yield plant-1 (g) suggested that the seed yield plant-1 (g) was highly dependent on biological yield plant -1 (g) and over 80% (R2 ═ 0.8294) variation in seed yield plant-1 could be explained from the variation in biological yield plant-1 (Fig. 3).

y = 0.233x + 1.3078 R2 = 0.8294

16

Seed yield plant

-1

(g)

20

12 8 4 0 0

10

20

30

40

Biological yield plant

50 -1

60

70

(g)

Fig. 3. Functional relationship between biological yield plant -1 (g) and seed yield plant -1 (g)

Seed yield (t ha -1 ) Seed yield ha -1 was significantly influenced with the varieties (Table 10). The variety BINA Til produced the highest seed yield ha -1 (1.50 t) and the variety Batiaghata local Til produced the lowest seed yield ha -1 (1.40 t).

Different row spacings had significant impact on seed yield ha -1 (Table 11). Wider spacing (45 cm) gave lower seed yield ha -1 (1.41 t). Higher seed yield ha 1

(1.50 t) was recorded in medium spacing (30 cm). Seed yield ha -1 was

63

gradually increased with decreasing row spacing upto a limit and decreased thereafter. The lowest spacing (15 cm) produces lower seed yield ha -1 (1.46 t) than medium spacing (30 cm) but higher seed yield ha -1 (1.41 t) than wider spacing (1.46 t ha -1 ). The increase in seed yield with decreasing row spacing upto a certain limit might be attributed to higher number of plants m -2 . The decrease in seed yield ha -1 at further decrease in row spacing might be due to the inter and intra plants competition for resources required for their growth and development of the crop. These results indicate that 30 cm may be the optimum row spacing of sesame under the Agro-ecological conditions of our experimental location. These results are in agreement with the findings of Hossain and Salahuddin (1994) who also reported the highest seed yield in sesame at the population density of 40 plants m -2 . Tomar et al. (1992) reported to increase in seed yield with an increase in population density with sesame. Stacker (1975) reported an increase in seed yield with an increase in population density in peas. Generally, higher seed yield in grain legumes was reported under high population density by Mc Kenzie et al. (1975), Kueneman et al. (1975), Nangju et al. (1975) and Haque (1988).

The interaction effect of variety and row spacing on the seed yield ha -1 was significant (Table 12). The highest seed yield ha -1 (1.54 t) was recorded in medium spacing (30 cm) with the variety BINA Til. The lowest seed yield 1

ha -

(1.34 t) was obtained in the highest spacing (45 cm) with the variety Batiaghata

local Til.

64

Biological yield (t ha -1 ) The varieties had significant influence on biological yield (Table 10). Higher biological yield (9.32 t ha -1 ) was produced by the variety T6 and lower biological yield (6.30 t ha -1 ) was produced by the variety BINA Til.

Row spacings had significant influence on biological yield (Table 11). Increasing row spacing decreased biological yield. The highest biological yield (8.25 t ha -1 ) was produced when 15 cm row spacing was applied and the lowest biological yield (6.71 t ha -1 ) was produced when 45 cm row spacing was applied.

Biological yield was significantly influenced by the interaction of variety and row spacing (Table 12). The variety T6 with 15 cm row spacing produced the highest biological yield (10.42 t ha -1 ) and the variety BINA Til with 45 cm row spacing produced the lowest biological yield (5.79 t ha -1 ).

Harvest index (%) Harvest index was significantly influenced by varieties (Table 10). The variety BINA Til produced higher harvest index (32.53%) and the variety Batiaghata local Til produced lower harvest index (22.44%). Variable effect of varieties on harvest index in rice plant was also observed by Ghose (2003).

There was significant influence on harvest index of row spacings (Table 11). The highest harvest index (29.47%) was produced when 30 cm row spacing was applied and the lowest harvest index (25.20%) was produced when 45 cm row spacing was applied.

65

As harvest index is the ratio of economic yield to biological yield. Harvest index was significantly influenced by the interaction of variety and row spacing in sesame (Table 12). The highest harvest index (35.09%) was recorded in the spacing 30 cm with the variety BINA til. The lowest harvest index (20.95%) was obtained in the highest spacing (45 cm) with the variety Batiaghata local Til.

66

Table 10. Varietal differences in yield and yield contributing characters of sesame Capsules

Length of

Seeds

1000 seed

Seed yield

Seed yield

Biological yield

Plant -1

Capsule (cm)

Capsule -1

weight (g)

plant -1 (g)

(t ha -1 )

(t ha -1 )

T6

65.56a

2.33b

73.19b

2.98a

11.30a

1.47b

9.32a

26.46b

Batiaghata Local Til

60.48b

2.00c

61.41c

2.97b

8.22b

1.40c

7.01b

22.44c

BINA Til

56.40c

3.15a

86.16a

2.98a

11.15a

1.50a

6.30c

32.53a

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.05

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

1.58

0.82

0.75

0.27

0.17

0.29

0.47

0.40

Variety

HI (%)

Level of significance CV (%)

67

Table 11. Effect of row spacing on yield and yield contributing characters of sesame Row spacing

Capsules

Length of

Seeds

1000 seed

Seed yield

Seed yield

Biological yield

(cm)

Plant -1

Capsule (cm)

Capsule -1

weight (g)

plant -1 (g)

(t ha -1 )

(t ha -1 )

15

39.27c

2.37c

62.11c

2.97b

5.14c

1.46b

8.25a

26.75b

30

66.27b

2.49b

76.19b

2.97b

11.18b

1.50a

7.68b

29.47a

45

76.89a

2.64a

82.46a

2.99a

14.35a

1.41c

6.71c

25.20c

significance

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

CV (%)

1.58

0.82

0.75

0.27

0.17

0.29

0.47

0.40

HI (%)

Level of

68

Table 12. Interaction effect of variety and row spacing on yield and yield contributing characters of sesame Variety × row

Capsules

Length of

Seeds

1000 seed

Seed yield

Seed yield

Biological yield

spacing

Plant -1

Capsule (cm)

Capsule -1

weight (g)

plant -1 (g)

(t ha -1 )

(t ha -1 )

V1 S1

43.56

2.23f

60.48g

2.80g

5.71f

1.48c

10.42a

25.94e

V1 S2

70.87

2.32e

75.82d

2.90d

12.11c

1.52b

9.42b

29.24d

V1 S3

82.24

2.46d

83.26c

3.11a

16.08a

1.42e

8.14c

24.19f

V2 S1

39.56

1.82i

50.67h

2.77h

4.21g

1.41e

7.64d

22.28g

V2 S2

65.88

2.01h

64.07f

2.84f

9.09e

1.45d

7.20e

24.09f

V2 S3

76.00

2.18g

69.48e

2.98c

11.38d

1.34f

6.22h

20.95h

V3 S1

34.70

3.05c

75.17d

2.81g

5.52f

1.51b

6.70f

32.04b

V3 S2

62.07

3.14b

88.68b

2.88e

12.34c

1.54a

6.43g

35.09a

V3 S3

72.44

3.26a

94.63a

3.00b

15.58b

1.46cd

5.79i

30.45c

NS

0.01

0.01

0.05

0.01

0.01

0.01

0.01

1.58

0.82

0.75

0.27

0.17

0.29

0.47

0.40

HI (%)

Level of significance CV (%)

V 1 = T6

NS = Non-significant

V 2 = Batiaghata local Til V 3 = BINA Til S1 = 15 cm S2 = 30 cm S3 = 45 cm 69

CHAPTER V SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

The experiment was conducted in the Field Laboratory of Agrotechnology Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna during the Kharif season of 2007 to see the effect of row spacings on the yield and yield components of three varieties of T 6 , Batiaghata local Til and BINA Til of sesame. The trial was laid out with three row spacings viz. 15, 30 and 45 cm in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The size of each unit plot was 3.0 m × 2.0 m.

The experimental plots were fertilized with a general dose of 60, 175, 60 and 120 kg ha -1 of N, P2 05 , K 2 O and S from the source of urea, triple super phosphate (TSP), muriate of potash (MP) and gypsum, respectively. Seeds were sown in line maintaining row spacing as per experimental specification. Weeding was done as and when necessary and irrigation was given twice. At maturity (when about 80% of capsules turned brown colour) the experimental crop was harvested variety-wise.

Plant height, number of leaves plant -1 and days to flowering were counted before harvesting. Grain yield and yield contributing characters of three sesame varieties were recorded after harvest. The data were analyzed statistically following the ANOVA technique and means were compared by using Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT).

70

Sesame varieties significantly influenced all growth and yield parameters. Maximum plant height (132.10 cm), number of leaves plant1 (71.20), number of capsules plant -1 (65.56), 1000 seed weight (2.98 g), seed yield plant -1 (11.30 g) and biological yield (9.32 t ha -1 ) were obtained by the variety T6 . On the other hand, higher length of capsule (3.15 cm), seeds capsule -1 (86.16), seed yield (1.50 t ha -1 ) and harvest index (32.53%) were obtained by the variety BINA Til. Batiaghata local Til showed maximum time for flower initiation (42.11 days) & 50% flowering (49.00 days); minimum plant height (123.10 cm), length of capsule (2.00 cm), seeds capsule -1 (61.41), 1000 seed weight (2.97 g), seed yield plant -1 (8.22 g), seed yield (1.40 t ha -1 ) and harvest index (22.44 %).

Like varieties row spacings had a significant effect on both phonological and growth characters of sesame. The maximum number of leaves plant -1 (72.16), number of capsules plant -1 (76.89), length of capsule (2.64 cm), number of seeds capsule -1 (82.46), 1000 seed weight (2.99 g), seed yield plant -1 (14.35 g) and days to first flowering (41.67 days) & 50% flowering (49.11 days) but minimum plant height (122.00 cm), seed yield (1.41 t ha -1 ), biological yield (6.71 t ha -1 ) and harvest index (25.20%) were obtained by the widest row spacing (45 cm). On the other hand, maximum plant height (135.00 cm), biological yield plant -1 (8.25 t ha -1 ) but minimum number of leaves

plant -1 (65.62), capsules plant -1

(39.27), length of capsule (2.37 cm), seeds capsule -1 (62.11), 1000 seed weight (2.97 g), seed yield plant -1 (5.14 g) and days to first flowering (38.00 DAE) & 50% flowering (44.56 DAE) were obtained from the narrowest row spacing (15 cm). The highest seed yield (1.50 t ha -1 ) and harvest index (29.47%) were obtained by the medium row spacing (30 cm).

71

The interaction of variety and row spacing also had significant influence on growth and yield contributing characters of sesame. The maximum plant height (139.50 cm) and biological yield (10.42 t ha -1 ) were produced by the interaction of the variety T 6 and 15 cm row spacing. The maximum number of leaves plant 1

(75.83), 1000 seed weight (3.11 g) and seed yield plant -1 (16.08 g) were

obtained from the interaction effect of vatiety T 6 and 45 cm row spacing. The minimum value in length of capsule (1.82 cm), number of seeds capsule -1 (50.67), 1000 seed weight (2.77 g) and seed yield plant -1 (4.21 g) were produced by the interaction of the variety Batiaghata local Til and 15 cm row spacing. The minimum plant height (118.20 cm), seed yield (1.34 t ha -1 ) and harvest index (20.95%) were found when Batiaghata local Til was grown in 45 cm row spacing. BINA Til produced the minimum leaf number (64.07) when grown in 15 cm row spacing. The variety BINA Til produced the maximum seed yield (1.54 t ha -1 ) and harvest index (35.09%) when seeds were sown in 30 cm row spacing. The maximum length of capsule (3.26 cm) and number of seeds capsule -1 (94.63) but minimum biological yield (5.79 t ha -1 ) were produced when variety BINA til was grown in 45 cm row spacing.

It could be concluded that higher seed yield of sesame could be obtained by using BINA Til sowing at 30 cm row spacing under the agroclimatic conditions of Khulna. The experiment was, however, conducted for only one season and hence the results be considered as tentative.

72

CHAPTER VI REFERENCES

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Appendix 1. Air temperature, relative humidity, soil temperature and rainfall during the growth period of sesame. Soil temperature Air temperature

Relative

(°C)

Humidity (%)

Month

(°C) at 5 cm and 20 cm soil depth

Rainfall (mm)

5 cm

20 cm

(°C)

(°C)

42

30.0

29.4

32

98

55

30.2

30.0

34

24.8

97

47

31.1

31.0

26

35.9

25.3

98

38

31.5

31.6

13

2

34.0

25.0

98

46

31.5

31.7

98

3

36.2

27.2

96

49

32.6

32.5

09

1

34.1

26.1

98

57

31.5

32.5

83

2

33.6

25.9

98

56

30.8

32.1

272

3

33.8

26.9

97

59

32.4

32.5

48

1

30.8

26.0

99

61

29.0

31.0

349

2

32.4

27.3

98

61

31.7

31.9

97

3

31.0

25.9

100

64

30.3

30.5

134

Max.

Min.

Max.

Min.

1*

34.8

24.8

96

2

34.0

23.6

3

35.0

1

April’07

May’07

June’07

July’07

* 1 stands for the day 01 to 10, 2 for the day 11 to 20 and 3 for the day 21 to rest day of the month.

Source: Regional Meteorological Station, Khulna.

86