Performance of sunflower genotypes under irrigation in semiarid conditions

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate yield potential, agronomic parameters and chemical composition of nine sunflower genotypes under irrigation in the semiarid. The sowing took place in May 13, 2008 and the harvest in August 13, 2008. We used a randomized block design with three replications in a factorial (2x9) and two spacings (70 and 90cm) and nine genotypes. The genotype Catissol 4 showed greater curvature of the stem (4,3), independent of sowing. Under spacing of 70cm it was observed higher dry matter yield (16,6t/ha), green matter of leaves and stems (16,6 t/ha), dry stem and leaf (6,1t/ha) and achene (3,3t/ha). The Helium 251 genotype produced more achene per plant (1.235 units). Under spacing of 70cm the Catissol 4 genotype showed higher dry matter content (41,4%) than other genotypes. However, there were no significant differences (P> 0,05) for dry matter production by on the three genotypes Aguará 3, Aguará 4, Charrua, Helium 250 Helium 251 and Helium 360 under 90cm spacing. The genotypes showed better levels of hemicellulose (12,2%) under 70cm spacing, as well as an increase in dry matter (64,8%) and neutral detergent fiber (54,8%). In conclusion: Sunflower semiarid showed favorable characteristics; the higher productivity of the genotypes occurred at a spacing of 70cm between rows; the genotype 251 Helium seems the best option for grain production, and the levels of protein and ether extract were significant.