Evaluation of Climate Change Effect on Agricultural Production of Iran: I. Predicting the Future Agroclimatic Conditions
A
Koocheki
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
author
M
Nasiri mahalati
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
author
L
Jafari
Hormozgan University
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
Future climate change may affect agricultural production through changes in both mean and variability of climatic conditions which in turn could affect crop growth and development. Results of many studies have shown that crop production systems of dry regions are more vulnerable to the predicted climate changes (5) and these impacts are mainly due to the effects of increased temperature on agro-climatic variables (4). During the last decade future changes in agro-climatic variables such as growth degree days, length of growth period and duration of dry season have been studied at regional or national scale with different results depending on studied location (1, 6). However, such information are not available for Iran. In this study different agro-climatic indices of Iran across the country are calculated for the target year 2050 based on business as usual scenario and the results are compared with the current conditions.
Materials and Methods
Long term climatic data (1965-2005) of 34 stations covering different climates across the country were used as the baseline for predicting future climate as well as current conditions. Two general circulation models (GISS and GFDL) were used for prediction of climatic variables in the selected stations for the year 2050 based on business as usual (A1f) scenario of CERES family (2) and the results were statistically downscaled for higher resolution (Koocheki et al., 2006). Daily temperatures (minimum, maximum and mean) and precipitation were generated from the predicted monthly values. Several agro-climatic indices including potential evapotranspiration, length of growing season (time period between the last spring frost and the first autumn frost), length of dry season (time period where evapotranspiration exceeds precipitation which obtained from ombrothermic curve), and precipitation deficiency index (sum of differences between evapotranspiration and precipitation) were calculated based on daily temperature and precipitation. Same indices were also calculated for the current climatic conditions and the results were compared with that of future.
Results and Discussion
The results indicated that mean annual temperature for different regions of the country would increase between 3.5-4.5°C. However, increased temperature predicted by GISS model was larger than GFDL model. This increase is significantly higher than average global temperature rise of 1.6-2.5 °C predicted for 2050 under business as usual scenario (2). Annual precipitation would decrease in the range of 7 to 15% by the target year 2050 furthermore both temperature rise and decreased precipitation showed a North-South and West-East gradient.
Future temperature rise will led to a longer growing season because of increased frost-free days. The results indicated that extended growth period is mainly due to delayed autumn frost and the highest increase in growing period of 33 days was predicted for the most Northern part of the country. However, lower precipitation results to a higher length of dry season ranging from 20 days at East up to 30 days in the South regions of the country. Extended dry period would lead to unfavorable conditions for rainfed cropping systems due to rapid depletion of soil moisture before crop maturity. Annual increase of potential evapotranspiration (PET) by 18-32% follows the same spatial direction as was predicted for temperature rise with the highest increase for South regions. As a result, precipitation deficiency index, which is the sum of differences between rainfall and PET, will increase drastically over the country, mostly due to increased PET or due to an increase in PET. While all of the studied agro-climatic variables would be affected by the future climate changes, our results showed that the highest overall negative effects would be appeared respectively, in the South, East, and central parts of the country while the North and Eastern regions will experience less vulnerability.
Conclusions
Agricultural production systems of Iran will be faced with new climatic conditions affecting crop growth and development. The results of this research indicated the future changes of main agro-climatic variables. Prediction of these changes effects on crop productivity at national level could be helpful for designing adaptation strategies.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
651
664
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37403_da4fe0499313749bb41153a132a2726f.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.51156
Effect of Weed Interference on Yield and Agronomical Characteristics of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum gracum) in Different Plant Density under Birjand Conditions
R
Baradaran
Islamic Azad University of Birjand
author
M
Ghahhari
Islamic Azad University of Birjand
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
Iran is among the countries with a climate appropriate for growing a wide range of herbs, and can be a great source of producing and exporting plants. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum gracum) is one of the oldest plant and it is an annual herbaceous plant of the Fabaceae family (Fabaceae) which are dry, brown or reddish-yellow to gray to over 5.3 mm. Seeds of this plant are used as a spice and its leaves are used as a vegetable. Among the most important factors in farming, it is important to use appropriate planting density. Therefore, if all the necessary conditions, including the right, but density is inappropriate, it will not get the optimum yield per unit area. The effective management of weeds increase the performance of weed management practices, reduce weed population and the costs associated with it over time. Weeds compete with crops for a variety of sources such as light, water and minerals. Given that the best time weeding the weeds and the most appropriate density of fenugreek is not much information available, this study aimed to determine the appropriate density of weed infested and fenugreek was used.
Materials and Methods
In order to determine the effects of weed interference and appropriate density of fenugreek, a field trial was conducted in research farm of Birjand Islamic Azad University during the spring of year 2011. The experiment was a factorial based on randomized complete block design. The treatments were fenugreek density at 10, 20 and 40 plants m-2 and weed interference in five levels included weed-free to maturity, 20, 40 and 60 days after emergence, and no weeding. Fenugreek seeds (spherical, brown) of pure seed before planting desert of preparation and sterilization by benomyl and then do planting trees and irrigation was done immediately. Irrigation was applied every seven days. During the study, pests and diseases were completely controlled. Weed control was done manually in three stages. Traits such as grain yield, plant height, biological yield, number of branches per plant and harvest index were measured. Ultimate performance were measured when the plant pods were yellow and dried. At the beginning of each plot five plants randomly chosen to measure the morphological characteristics and traits in yield components were recorded and then removed 50 cm of the margins of the plot, the rest were taken to determine the function. Analysis of variance and statistical analysis was performed using SAS and Excel softwares, Mean comparison was done by Duncan test at 5 percent.
Results and Discussion
Analysis of variance showed that the density and weed interference were significant at 1 and 5 percent, respectively. The interaction between density and weed interference on yield was significant at 5% level too. By prolonging the period of weed interference, the yield fell to the lowest amount of weeding treatments. The significance of the interaction between density and weed interference represents different responses in different levels of compression performance is to weed competition. In general, the choice of planting density and suitable crop can reduce weeds, increase competitive ability of the crop and increase its performance. Biological yield was significantly affected by the plant density. The density of planting, the maximum density of 40 plants (325.56 grams per square meter) and the lowest density of 10 plants (232.66 grams per square meter) and biomass production. Biological yield was not affected significantly by weed interference. Although by increasing time interval of weeding time (up to 20 days) biological yield decreased from 280.49 to 257.49, but this reduction was not significant. The interaction between planting density and weed interference on biological performance was not significant. Most biological yield was achieved in the absence of weeds. This is not unexpected because the availability of a large part of the resources cause more shoots in plant during the growing season . Biomass density was significantly increased. Similarly, the highest density (40 plants per square meter) due to a larger and more use of sunlight, biomass, leaf area, more than other densities produced. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of weed interference density and harvest index was not significant, but the interaction between plant density and harvest index was significant. Comparison of the average harvest index in different interference treatments showed that the condition of all the weeding and no weeding had the highest (21.98) and the highest (16.57) harvest index. The effect of density was not significant on the harvest index and harvest index did not indicate any significant differences in different densities. Decreased harvest index showed an increase in the plant more susceptible to weed interference was the harvest index. The effect of weed interference on dry weeds had no significant effect on the dry weight of weed density and weed interference and interaction at the level of 5%. With exception of the treatment as lack of control over weeds, highest and lowest dry matter related to the treatment of 60 days after emergence, and the treatment of 20 days after emergence. The effect of weed interference on the number of weeds was significant. The number of weeds per square meter decreased by increasing the duration of the interference. So that the number of weed emergence after 60 days of treatment, compared to 20 days after emergence treatment was lower by 44 percent. Possibly reducing the number of weeds with time, was due to increased competition within species and between species of weeds for growth resources. The competition will serve to eliminate the weaker plants called to this phenomenon. Weed production in the treatments (weed control) can be the result of a longer period of weed interference and greater use of light, water and nutrients. Fenugreek plant height was significantly affected by plant density and by lowering density, plant height reduced. Interaction of plant height was significant at the five percent level and the highest plant height obtained at 60 days after emergence weeding treatments and lowest in control. Analysis of variance showed that the effects of congestion and interference on the number of branches per plant, weed density and weed interference significant interaction on plant height and number of branches per plant was not significant. The number of branches per plant were significantly influenced by the density of planting.
Conclusions
In general, the results of this study showed that the presence of weeds fenugreek is able to withstand up to 20 days after emergence and remove weeds after this stage, significantly increased performance. This shows that weed control should be applied early in the season. Also, due to the lack of change in the plant density increased number of branches and whereas the highest density, highest grain yield was also more likely to increase the density to be accompanied.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
665
674
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37409_4bb8a3950edc9e33877680c3c2e6e179.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.21929
Effect of Organic and Chemical Fertilizers on Yield and Essential Oil of Two Ecotypes of Savory (Satureja hortensis L.) under Normal and Drought Stress Conditions
O
Akrami nejad
Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman
author
M
Saffari
Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman
author
R
Abdoshahi
Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
Savory (Satureja hortensis L.) is an annual and aromatic plant from Labiatae family, which has plenty of essential oil and is important in medicinal, food, health and beauty industries (6). In comparison with chemical fertilizers, organic fertilizers especially manure have lots of organic material sources, and can be used as nutrients, especially Nitrogen, Phosphor and Potassium. Organic fertilizers also keeps more water in the soil (14).
Water deficit is one of the most important boundaries of production in arid and semi-arid regions. Drought stress reduces water content, limits plant growth and changes some physiological and metabolic activities (31). This experiment was conducted as there is a global interest for production of medicinal plants with sustainable agriculture system, and with low input and shortage of information about Savory reaction to fertilization in drought stress condition. The objective of this research was to compare the effects of chemical fertilizers and different organic fertilizers on quantitative and qualitative characteristics of two ecotypes of savory under drought stress condition.
Materials and Methods
In order to study the effects of organic and mineral (N, P and K) fertilizers on quantitative and qualitative characteristics of savory in drought stress condition, two separate split plot designs with three replications were carried out in 2012-2013 year, at the research field of Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Iran. In each design fertilizers including cow manure (30 ton per hectare), poultry manure (10 ton per hectare), chemical fertilizers (used equally with macro elements existing in both poultry and cow manure) and control (no fertilizer) were used as main factor. Kerman and Khuzestan ecotypes were sub-factor. One of the experiments was irrigated to 100% and the other to 50% of field capacity. Two experiments were analyzed as a combined design. The important characteristics of Savory such as plant height, grain and biological yield, chlorophyll index, ionic leakage, relative water content, number of branches, essence percentage and essence amount were evaluated. Data were analyzed with SAS and MSTAT-C software and mean comparison was done using Duncan test at %5 level.
Results and Discussion
The results showed that drought stress reduced plant height, number of branches, oil yield, relative water content, SPAD index and increased ion leakage. Meanwhile, it had no significant effect on the percent of oil. Fertilizers increased plant height, number of branches, yield, chlorophyll index and oil yield, while it decreased ion leakage in contrast with control. Baher et al (2002) have reported that drought stress reduced plant height, grain yield, and branches number of Savory. As nutrients deficit is one of the main factors in control of plant height and yield, plant that were treated with control had the lowest growth. Organic fertilizers provide appropriate plant growth via gradual release of nutrients during growth season and saving water. Two ecotypes had significant differences for yield, number of branches and ionic leakage. Kerman ecotype showed better yield performance. The results showed that water stress reduced yield, number of branches and plant height of savory. Meanwhile fertilizers (especially cow and hen manure) could reduce the effects of drought.
Conclusions
Generally, organic fertilizers, especially cow manure, produced higher yield and showed a better response to drought stress. It might be for higher moisture maintenance in contrast with chemical fertilizers. It seems that, using cow manure could be helpful to overcome the negative effects of drought stress.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
675
686
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37415_8f7f49bdbc0f41662b001f12203cd9be.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.23866
Effect of Mulch and Water Stress on Some Physiological Traits, Yield Components and Grain Yield of Red Kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
R
Amini
University of Tabriz
author
A
Dabbagh Mohammadi Nasab
University of Tabriz
author
E
Ghalandarzade
University of Tabriz
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
Water use in agricultural production as one of the most important environmental factors affecting plant growth and development, especially in arid and semi-arid climatic conditions of Iran is of special importance (21). One of the ways of alleviating water scarcity is by enhancing its use efficiency or productivity. Improving water use efficiency in arid and semi-arid areas depends on effective conservation of moisture and efficient use of limited water. Mulching is one of the management practices for increasing water use efficiency (WUE) . Straw mulch is commonly used as mulch. Straw mulching has potential for increasing soil water storage (16). Mulches modify the microclimate and growing conditions of crops (16), conserve more water and increase water use efficiency (34).
Red kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the most important food legume (25) and is an important source of proteins and minerals (28). The majority of red kidney bean production is under drought conditions, and thus yield reductions due to drought are very common (29). This research was carried out to evaluate the effect of wheat straw mulch and water stress on physiological traits, yield components and grain yield of red kidney bean cultivars.
Materials and Methods
A field experiment was conducted in 2012 at the Research Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Iran (latitude 38°05_N, longitude 46°17_E, altitude 1360 m above sea level). In order to investigate the effect of mulch on grain yield and yield components of red kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars at different water stress treatments, a factorial experiment was conducted based on RCB design with three replications. The factors were including water stress treatment (I1 and I2, irrigation after 60 and 120 mm evaporation from class A pan, respectively); mulch application at two levels (M1: (no mulch) and M2: 2 ton ha-1 wheat straw mulch) and red kidney bean cultivars including Akhtar and Naz.
Results and Discussion
The results indicated that the effects of water stress, mulch, cultivar and interaction of water stress × cultivar were significant on nodule number per plant. The results of mean comparison indicated that mulch application increased nodule number per plant by 17%. This result indicates that mulch increased the soil moisture and finally improved the activity of Rhizobium. In water stress treatment the nodule number per root of both cultivars reduced but the reduction in cv. Naz was greater than that of cv. Akhtar.
Analysis of variance indicated that the effects of water stress, cultivar and water stress cultivar was significant on leaf stomata density. At water stress treatment (I2) the leaf stomata density increased by 7% but increasing in cv. Akhtar was greater than cv. Naz. One reason for increasing the leaf stomata density at water stress condition could be the reduction in cell size that led to increasing the leaf stomata density.
The effects of water stress, mulch, cultivar and water stress cultivar was significant on pods per plant. The mulch application increased the pods per plant by 13 %. The interaction effect of water stress cultivar showed that the reduction of pods per plant in cv. Akhtar (27%) was greater than that of cv. Naz (20%). The cv. Naz had an indeterminate growth pattern and was able to compensate the reduction in pods per plant at later growth stages.
The effects of water stress, mulch, cultivar and water stress cultivar was significant on 100-grains weight. The 100-grain weight of red kidney bean increased in mulch application treatment by 6%. The explanation for increasing of 100-grains weight could be attributed to improving the water availability and photosynthesis rate by mulch application. The interaction effect of water stress cultivar showed that in both water stress treatments the cv. Akhtar had higher 100-grain weight than cv. Naz and the reduction percentage in cv. Naz was greater than that of cv. Akhtar. This result could be related to the longer growth period of cv. Naz than cv. Akhtar.
The effects of water stress, mulch, cultivar and the all interaction effects were significant on red kidney bean grain yield. The mulch application increased the grain yield by 18%. The effect of water stress mulch cultivar indicated that the cv. Akhatr in full irrigation treatment and application of straw mulch had the highest grain yield (3135 kg ha-1). Also the cv. Naz in water stress treatment and application of without mulch application had the lowest grain yield (1340 kg ha-1). The cv. Akhtar had a bush type growth pattern and a lower green cover than cv. Naz, therefore mulch application on the soil surface could increase the available water for red kidney bean.
Conclusions
At water limitation conditions by mulch application, the available water, yield components and grain yield of red kidney bean could be increased. Under drought and aridity conditions, field management practices such as selecting high-yielding cultivars and reducing soil evaporation by using of mulch increased the grain yield especially in water limitation condition. Investigating the response of other common bean cultivars to water stress and mulch could be effective for identifying the common bean cultivars with high grain yield at water stress condition with mulch application that is consistent with sustainable agriculture.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
687
699
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37421_6750e6cd7370af5e4b029999f14d873b.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.30532
Evaluation of the Effects of Bio Fertilizers Containing non Symbiotic Nitrogen Fixing and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria on Quantitative and Qualitative Traits of Wheat
M
Mohtadi
Islamic Azad University
author
M. J
Mirhadi
islamic azad university science and research
author
A.
Chraty
Research Center of Mazandaran
author
M.
Bahadori
Research Center of Mazandaran
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
Wheat crop plays an important role in food security in a country such as Iran. Therefore, serious attention has been paid to ecological farming systems and sustainable management of wheat. For this purpose extensive efforts is done to find proper strategies to improve the quality of soil, agricultural products and started removal pollutants. One of the factors to achieve sustainable agriculture is to use natural agents such as biofertilizers. Several mechanisms are proposed to explain how effective plant growth promoting rhizobacteria is for growth and development of plants. These mechanisms include two groups, direct and indirect in general. Indirect mechanism is to increase absorption and availability of the nutrient elements soluble, producing plant growth regulators, siderophore production of iron chelator, and the phosphate soluble. Through indirect mechanisms such as antagonistic relation, PGPRs moderate the harmful effects of of plant pathogens and thereby lead to increase plant growth. The main goal of this study was to investigate the effect of biofertilizers containing non-symbiotic nitrogen fixing and phosphate solubilizing bacteria on quantitative and qualitative traits of wheat.
Materials and Methods
This Experiment was conducted in the research farm of Baykola agricultural research stations affiliated by agriculture and natural resources research center of Mazandaran during 2011-12 cropping season. In order to determine physical and chemical properties of the soil samples were taken from the depth of 0-30 cm,. Experimental design was split plots arrangement based on randomized complete block design with three replications. In this experiment chemical fertilizer was assumed as the main plot in 3 levels include: 1- noconsumption (C0), 2- equivalent to 50% of the fertilizer recommendations (C1), 3- equivalent to 100% of the fertilizer recommendations(C2) and two types of biological fertilizers was applied in the sub plot in 4 levels: 1-noinoculation (B0), 2- Seeds inoculated with nitrogen fixing bacteria (B1), 3-Seed inoculation with phosphate solubilizing bacteria (B2), 4- Combined application of bio-fertilizers (B3).
Results and Discussion
Analysis of variance showed that grain yield, plant height, leaf area index, yield components, straw weight, biological yield, harvest index, percent of nitrogen and grain protein were influenced by different levels of biological and chemical fertilizers (Table 3). The highest grain yield was obtained using C2B3, combination treatments using chemical fertilizers and biofertilizers (PSB+NFB). The results of interactions between chemical fertilizers and biofertilizers showed the using 100% of the recommendations fertilizer along with biofertilizers (PSB+NFB) significantly increased grain yield (Table 5), compared with control. Due to increasing activity of bacteria Aztobacter chroococum, Azospirillium brasilense enhanced nitrogen fixation and released phyto hormones and thereby increased nutrient uptake by the roots. In addition, Pseudomonas Potida and Pantoea agglomerace had beneficial effects beside phosphorus uptake. These bacteria increased absorption and dissolved nutrients in the soil around the roots. PGPRs produced the plant growth regulator, organic acids and increased the ability to absorb elements such as iron, zinc and other micro elements and ultimately were effective in increasing crop yield and percent of nitrogen and grain protein.
Conclusions
Results of the experiment showed that using phosphate solubilizing bacteria and nitrogen fixing simultaneously or individually increased total plant biomass, grain nitrogen, protein content, yield components and crop yield. However, the combined use of phosphate solubilizing bacteria and nitrogen fixing compared to use of individually was more s effective. A synergic effect was found between chemical fertilizers and biological fertilizers. It is recommended to apply chemical fertilizers along with biological fertilizers to achieve highest possible yield.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
700
714
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37429_5bf3259b8164e55ed02ddfffd5862bbb.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.31365
Water Use Efficiency and Water Deficit Tolerance Indices in Terminal Growth Stages in Promising Bread Wheat genotypes
M
Nazeri
Khorasan Razavi Agricultural and Natural Resourc
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
During growth stages of wheat, anthesis and grain filling periods are the most susceptible to drought. Wheat cultivars that are more tolerant to terminal drought are more suitable to Mediterranean conditions. To increase water use efficiency, the target environment should be taken into account, because one trait might be effective in an environment but ineffective in another environment. In general, some traits like early vigour and root absorbtion capacity are so important in water deficient conditions. In recent years, increasing grain yield was due to increasing grain numbers. Although both the source and sink is considered as the limitation factors in increasing grain yield in old cultivars, even in the new cultivars sink seems to be more important. In fact, phenological adjustment adapted with seasonal precipitation pattern can improve water use efficiency in drought conditions. Suitable flowering time is the most important trait that is correlated with increasing water use efficiency in drought conditions.
Materials and Methods
In order to evaluate the level of drought tolerance in promising bread wheat lines, a split plot arrangements using randomized complete block design with three replications was carried out in 2008-09 and 2009-10 growing seasons at Torogh Agricultural Research Field Station, Mashhad. in. water limited conditions at three levels Optimum moisture conditions (L1), removal irrigation and using rain shelter from milky grain stage to maturity (L2), removal irrigation and using rainshelter from anthesis to maturity (L3) were assigned to main plots. Ten bread wheat lines include suitable for cold and dry regions (V1: (Toos), V2: (C-81-10), V3: (pishgam), V4: (C-84-4), V5: (C-84-8), V6: (C-D-85-15), V7: (C-D-85-9), V8: (C-D-84-5502), V9: (C-D-85-5502) and V10: (C-85-6) were randomized in sub-plots. Stress susceptibility index (SSI), stress tolerance index (STI) and tolerance (TOL) were calculated using following equations:
D = 1- (Yd/Yp), SSI = (1-(Ydi/Ypi)) / D, STI = (Ypi×Ysi)/ (Yp) 2, TOL= Ypi – Ysi
In which D is environment stress intensity; Yp, average of grain yield for all genotypes in optimum; Ys, in water limited conditions; Ypi, grain yield of one genotype in optimum; and Ysi, grain yield of one genotype in water limited conditions.
Anthesis and physiological maturity were determined by observing of anthers in %50 spikes and changing color of %50 pedancles to yellow, respectively.
Results and Discussions
The results revealed that water stress (L2 and L3 treatments) reduced grain yield (18.6% and 45.3%, respectively). Genotypes V5, V4 and V10 showed maximum water use efficiency (WUE) (1.885, 1.756 and 1.833 kg.m-3 respectively). A highly significant relationship was found between grain yield under moisture limited conditions and STI (r = 0.93**) and TOL (r = 0.85**). Grain yield under optimum irrigation condition was significantly (r = 0.50**) correlated with STI.
Therefore, stress tolerance index (STI) was more efficient index for estimation the grain yield under either conditions as well as grouping the genotypes with higher grain yield and tolerant to water limited condition. So, stress tolerance index (STI) was suitable for classifying the higher yielding genotypes adapted to drought prone environment. Since stress tolerance index (STI) was highly and significantly associated with grain yield in both optimum (r = 0.50**) and limited moisture (r = 0.93**) conditions, it can be used an efficient index for evaluation in the field.
Conclusions
Our results indicated that genotypes V5, V4 and V10 with high stress tolerance index (STI) values and the greatest WUE, had the best performance among the other genotypes, respectively. These cultivars had higher grain yield in both optimum and stress conditions than other genotypes So, these cultivars could be recommended to cultivate for similar conditions.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
715
727
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37433_f6c7b70acb81b98e8bc8c830338d4d66.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.32336
Effects of Chitosan Spraying on Physiological Characteristics of Ferula flabelliloba (Apiaceae) Under Drought Stress
Gh
Taheri
Neyshabur Branch, Islamic Azad University
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
Ferula flabelliloba Rech. F. & Aell., (Apiaceae), a perennial plant with medicinal value, is one of important soil protective grown in Binalood mountains. Decreased precipitation in the previous years caused plants subjected to drought stress condition. Drought stress limits the growth and productivity of plants more than any other environmental factors. Drought stress can alter plant light absorption and consumption processes and increases production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS is responsible for lipid peroxidation and associated injury to membranes, nucleic acids, proteins and enzymes. To detoxify ROS, plants develop different types of antioxidants to reduce oxidative damage and confer drought tolerance. ROS scavengers are either non- enzymatic (ascorbate, glutathione, flavonoids, alkaloids, carotenoids and phenolic compound) or enzymatic containing superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, and glutathione reductase. The activity of these antioxidants and enzymes allows short-term acclimation to temporary water deficit, but these biochemicals cannot overcome the effects of extreme or prolonged drought.
Chitosan is a natural biopolymer formed by low alkaline deacetylation of chitin, an important component of the exoskeletons of crustaceans such as crab, crawfish and shrimp. Chitosan can affect plant physiology and gene expression, hence these materials can increase the plant resistant to many unfavorable environmental condition. The biological properties of chitosan have led to use it for various purposes. Chitosan has been used as plant protectant against fungi, bacteria and viruses, to improve soil fertility and to stimulate plant defense system. Thus, it seems that chitosan is a promising material for improving plant growth, especially under drought stress conditions where water deficit limits plant growth and establishment. In the present study, the effects of chitosan as foliar spraying of F. flabelliloba with different concentrations were investigated. The main objective of this study was to examine the potential benefits of chitosan by reducing damage to F. flabelliloba at the seedling stages under water-deficit conditions.
Materials and Methods
In order to evaluate the effects of chitosan spraying and drought stress on physiological characteristics of F. felabelliloba, a factorial experiment in a completely randomized design with three replications was conducted in laboratory. The experimental treatments included drought stress (irrigated in Field capacity, depletion of soil water content up to 35% and 65% of FC condition) and foliar chitosan spray (Zero, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8 mg l-1).
Seeds of F. flabelliloba were harvested in June-July of 2012 from natural habitat in Binalood mountain and kept in laboratory condition until the study started. F. flabelliloba seeds were germinated and grown in soils at light/dark temperature cycle of 20-16 degree centigrade and photoperiod of 16-8 h. Irrigation treatments were performed after 20 days, when seedling established and chitosan sprayed simultaneous and repeated one month later.
The shoot from 60-day-old plants were taken and used for analysis the physiological parameters. Shoot dry weight was measured in oven at 70 ºC for 24 hours. Enzyme activity was determined from the extract prepared according to the method of Sairam and Saxena (2000). Catalase and Peroxidase activities were determined according to Weydert and Cullen (2010) and Superoxide dismutase activity assayed as described by Beauchamp and Fridovich (1971). Lipid peroxidation was estimated by measuring spectrophotometrically malondialdehyde (MDA) content of plant based on Jiang and Hung (2001). Total phenolic content was determined according to Ebrahimzadeh and Bahramian (2009). Data from the experiment was analyzed using SPSS ver. 17 and MSTAT-C software and mean comparison was carried out using Duncan´s multiple range test at the 95% of probability.
Results and Discussion
Results showed that shoot dry weight of the plants maintained under depletion of soil water content up to 65% of FC decreased and total phenolic content, Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, the activity of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT) increased. The highest shoot dry weight was obtained in plants treated with 0.4 mg l-1 chitosan. The highest phenolic content, CAT and SOD activity were obtained in plants subtended in depletion of soil water content up to 65% of FC and sprayed with 0.6 and 0.8 mg l-1 chitosan.
Defensive mechanisms against oxidative damage related with drought stress, including production of antioxidative enzymes can be increased by exogenous application of chitosan. Chitosan may have had the beneficial effects on plant growth under water deficit stress condition, often by anti-transparent and causing the closure of stomata which conserves water. The lower amount of MDA in plants sprayed with chitosan, whether under well-watered or drought conditions, suggests that chitosan protects against oxidative damage. Moreover, our study demonstrates that application of chitosan to 0.6 mg l-1, increased total phenolic content in F. flabelliloba leaf tissue, and decreased the lipid peroxidation. The decrease in shoot dry weight against drought stress in the F. flabelliloba plants sprayed with 0.8 mg l-1 of chitosan, might be result of factors that occurred alone or in combination. High rates of chitosan can reduce plant growth by decreasing photosynthesis and the rates of some biochemical processes.
Conclusions
The Results of this study indicated that chitosan sprayed under drought condition could stimulate enzymatic and non-enzymatic anti-oxidative defence system of F. flabelliloba and decreased oxidative damage in water stress condition. According to the result, it can be concluded that chitosan foliar spraying can decrease harmful effects of drought stress and can be used as a plant growth enhancer for F. Flabelliloba.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
728
737
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37442_904ae7cacfe5af2931c8203807df2c94.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.32342
Effects of Nano-Zinc oxide and Seed Inoculation by Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) on Yield, Yield Components and Grain Filling Period of Soybean (Glycine max L.)
R
Seyedsharifi
University of Mohaghegh Ardabili
author
S
Khorramdel
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
Utilizing biological fertilizer is a proper and cheap method for crop production. Potentially, soybean can be used as biological fertilizers and seed inoculation. Zinc is an essential element that have positive effects on plant growth and its development. Canola, sunflower, soybean and safflower are the main cultivated oilseeds in Iran. Soybean production in Iran is very low as compared to other countries. One of the most effective factor in increasing the soybean yield is seed inoculation with plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and application of Zinc fertilizer. Some of the benefits provided by PGPR are the ability to produce gibberellic acid, cytokinins and ethylene, N2 fixation, solubilization of mineral phosphates and other nutrients (56). Numerous studies have shown a substantial increase in dry matter accumulation and seed yield following inoculation with PGPR. Seyed Sharifi (45) reported that seed inoculation with Azotobacter chroococcum strain 5 increased all of the growth indices such as total dry matter, crop growth rate and relative growth rate. Increasing and extending the role of biofertilizers such as Rhizobium can reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and decrease adverse environmental effects. Therefore, in the development and implementation of sustainable agricultural techniques, biofertilization has great importance in alleviating environmental pollution and deterioration of the nature. As a legume, soybean can obtain a significant portion (4-85%) of its nitrogen requirement through symbiotic N2 fixation when grown in association with effective and compatible Rhizobium strains. Since there is little available information on nano-zinc oxide and seed inoculation by plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) on yield in the agro-ecological growing zones of Ardabil province of Iran. Therefore, this research was conducted to investigate the effects of nano-zinc oxide and seed inoculation with plant growth promoting rhizobacteria application on yield, yield components and grain filling period of soybean.
Materials and Methods
In order to study the effects of Nano-Zinc oxide and seed inoculation with Brady rhizobium and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria on yield and some agronomic characteristics of soybean, a factorial experiment based on randomized complete block design with three replications was conducted in 2013 at the research farm of the Islamic Azad University, Ardabil Branch. Factors were included foliar application of Nano-Zinc oxide at four levels (Zero as control, 0.3, 0.6 and 0.9 g l-1) and seed inoculation with Brady rhizobium and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria at five levels (without inoculation as control, seed inoculation with Brady rhizobium japanicum, seed inoculation with Brady rhizobium japanicum+Azosprillum lipoferum strain OF, seed inoculation with Brady rhizobium japanicum+Psedomonas putida, seed inoculation with Brady rhizobium japanicum+ Azosprillum lipoferum strain OF+ Psedomonas putida.
Results and Discussion
The results of growth indices showed that the maximum total dry matter (530 g m-2), crop growth rate (9.48 g.m-2.day-1) and relative growth rate (0.1 g.g-1.day-1) were obtained at foliar application of 0.9 g l-1 Nano-Zinc oxide×seed inoculation with rhizobium+Azosprillum+ Psedomonas and the least of these indices were obtained without of foliar application Nano-Zinc oxide × seed inoculation. The results showed that plant height, the number of nodules per plant, the number of pod per plant, grain yield and grain 100 weight were significantly affected by Nano-Zinc oxide, seed inoculation and interaction of Nano-Zinc oxide×seed inoculation. Maximum of plant height, grain 100 weight, the number of nodules per plant and grain yield were obtained at foliar application of 0.9 g l-1 of Nano-Zinc oxide×seed inoculation with rhizobium and PGPR. Dry weight of nodules per plant, the number of pod per plant and the number of grains per plant inceased by increasing of Nano-Zinc oxide application. Similar results were obtained in seed inoculation with rhizobium+PGPR. In order to increase the grain yield, growth indices and some agronomic characteristics of soybean, it is suggested to apply 0.9 g l-1 of Nano-Zinc oxide and at seed inoculation with rhizobium and PGPR.
Conclusions
Based on the results, it was concluded that application of 0.9 g l-1 of Nano-Zinc oxide and at seed inoculation with rhizobium and PGPR can be recommended for profitable soybean production in the study area.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
738
753
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37447_e766b72df5e3dff9cc974b2b43ae8339.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.32491
Evaluation of Freeze Tolerance in Lancelot Plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.) Ecotypes under Controlled Conditions
M
Janalizadeh Ghazvini
دانشگاه فردوسی مشهد
author
A
Nezami
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
author
E
Izadi Darbandi
داﻧﺸﮕﺎه ﻓﺮدوﺳﯽ مشهد
author
M
Parsa
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
Lancelot Plantain (Ribwort, narrow-leaf or English plantain) is a deep-rooted, short-lived perennial herb from Plantaginaceae family which has been used for various medicinal purposes for centuries, especially in Europe and only more recently has been proposed as a forage plant. The leaf of plantain is highly palatable for grazing animals, providing mineral-rich forage. Recently two productive upright cultivars of plantain have been bred and introduced, Grasslands Lancelot and the more erect winter active Ceres Tonic. Plantain grows moderately in winter but its main growth periods beings in spring and autumn with opportunistic summer growth. Although it reveals suitable winter survival in natural conditions, but there is not a lot of information about cold tolerance of this plant. So it is important to recognize the freeze tolerance of narrow leaf plantain for successful planting and utilization in cold regions such as Mashhad in Khorasan Razavi Province (Northeast of Iran). Determining LT50 point or critical temperature for survival of plant is the most reliable and simple method for evaluating cold tolerance of plants. Another reliable method for freeze tolerance of plants is estimation of temperature at which 50 % of dry matter reduces (RDMT50). This experiment was carried out to evaluate freeze tolerance of five ecotypes of Lancelot plantain according to the LT50su and RDMT50 indices.
Materials and Methods
In order to evaluate freeze tolerance of Lancelot plantain, a factorial experiment based on completely randomized design with three replications was carried out under controlled conditions at college of agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. Five ecotypes of Lancelot plantain (Bojnourd, Kalat, Mashhad, Ghayen and Birjand) after three months growth and hardening in natural environment were transferred to a Thermo gradient freezer on January 20th, 2012 and exposed to eight freezing temperatures (Zero, -3, -6, -9, -12, -15, -18 and -21°C). The initial temperature of programmable freezer was 5°C; but gradually decreased in a rate of 2°C.h-1 until reach to desired temperatures. When the temperature reached to -2°C, the plants were sprayed with the Ice Nucleation Active Bacteria (INAB) to help the formation of ice nuclei in them. Then for recovery, plants were transferred to greenhouse and after one month, survival and growth traits of plants were determined by measuring characteristics such as survival percentage (Su%), the lethal temperature for 50% of plants according to the survival percentage (LT50su), number of leaf, leaf area, leaf dry weight and temperature at which 50% of dry matter reduces (RDMT50). LT50su and RDMT50 were determined after plotting survival percentage and dry weight data curves versus experimental temperatures respectively. Analysis of variance performed by MSTAT-C software and correlation between data carried out by MINITAB 15 program. Mean separation was conducted by least significant difference (LSD) test at 1% probability level.
Results and Discussion
Analysis of variance showed significant difference between plantain ecotypes and freezing temperatures for survival %. Means comparison showed that survival percentage of Mashhad ecotype was more than other ecotypes. Interaction effects of ecotype and temperature on survival percentage was significant too and only Mashhad and Bojnourd ecotypes in -15°C were alive. Evaluating the temperature-survival curve allowed estimation of a LT50 value, similar to the LD50 (lethal dose for 50% of the subjects) in a toxicity screen. In this experiment there was significant difference between ecotypes at the point of this indicator view and LT50su of Mashhad ecotype was 5.3°C lower than Birjand ecotype. With decreasing the temperature to less than -12°C, number of leaf and leaf area were decreased. In addition decreasing of temperature to less than -6°C, reduced dry weight of plants noticeably. Mashhad and Birjand ecotypes produced the most and the least leaf number and leaf dry weight but Kalat and Birjand ecotypes produced the most and the least leaf area respectively after the recovery period. Based on RDMT50 index, Bojnourd ecotype was the most tolerant and Birjand ecotype was the most sensitive ecotype. There was high and negative correlation between Survival percentage, LT50su and RDMT50 (r= -0.97*** and r= -0.53* respectively) which confirmed that these indices were suitable alternatives for each other in estimating the freeze tolerance of narrow leaf plantain.
Conclusions
Based on these results, Lancelot plantain has the ability to withstand winters which are not colder than
-16 °C. Despite this for better perception of Plantain freeze tolerance potential, more experiments under controlled and field conditions are required.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
754
765
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37456_a077dc29aad33e8317e5b54778a77c6f.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.33177
Response of Physiological Growth Indices and Bulb Dry Yield of Onion (Allium cepa L.) Genotypes to Priming and Seed Size
M
Izadkhah shishvan
University of Urmia
author
M
Tajbakhsh
Urmia university
author
J.
Jalilian
University of Urmia
author
B
Pasban Eslam
Agriculture and Natural Resources Research Center of East Azarbayjan
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
Priming is one of the most common methods of improving seed quality, which significantly affects their storability. Seed priming is a seed treatment that allows imbibition and activation of the initial metabolic events associated with seed germination, but prevents radicle emergence and growth. In other words, phase one and two of seed water imbibition curve are passed, but seeds do not enter the third phase of water uptake. Then seeds are dried back to their original water content. Seed priming is a pre-sowing strategy for influencing seed germination and seedling development by modulating pre-germination metabolic activity prior to emergence of the radicle and generally enhances germination rate and plant performance. Naturally, when speed and percentage emergence of germinating seeds are being high, growing sources like light, water and nutrient will be more used. Another factor that can affect the seed germination and seedling establishment is the seed size. As generally known, among producing factors, seed as the first consumer store, plays an important role in the transfer of genetic characters and improvement of qualitative and quantitative traits of production. One of the most important factors in maximizing crop yield is planting high quality seed. Seed size is an important physical indicator of seed quality that affects vegetative growth and is frequently related to yield, market grade factors and harvest efficiency. In the present paper, effects of different pre-sowing treatments and seed size on physiological growth indices and bulb dry yield of onion cultivars were investigated.
Materials and Methods
In order to determine the response of physiological growth indices and bulb dry yield of onion to priming and seed size, a field experiment was conducted in 2012-2013 cropping season at Agriculture and Natural Resources Research Center of East, Azarbayjan, Iran. This experiment was a factorial experiment based on a randomized complete block design with three replications. Experiment treatments included priminig at four levels: hydropriming, osmopriming (in %2KNO3), priminig with falomin amino acid (in 2%) and control (without priming). Seed samples of the two cultivars were sieved by slotted screens and placed into three groups of seed diameter size: small, medium and large and cultivars at two levels: Red Azarshahr and Zarghun. The physiological growth indices such as total dry matter, leaf area index, crop growth rate, net assimilation rate, bulb growth rate and bulb fresh and dry yield were studied.
Results and Discussion
Results of field experiment showed that seed priming improved growth indices such as dry matter accumulation (DMA), crop growth rate (CGR), net assimilation rate (NAR), relative growth rate (RGR), bulb growth rate (BGR) and leaf aria index (LAI) in both cultivars. The highest bulb fresh, dry yield and dry matter percentage (54400, 6800 kg/ha and11/80 %) belonged to priminig with folammine amino acid, respectively. The results of growth analysis indicated that the maximum and minimum growth indices values were obtained from large and small seeds, respectively. Mean comparison showed that the highest bulb fresh yield (53.26 ton/ha), bulb dry yield (9.95 ton/ha) and bulb dry matter (11.47 %) were achieved from large seeds. Mean comparison indicated that the highest bulb fresh yield (43.40 ton/ha), bulb dry yield (5.43 ton/ha) and bulb dry matter (11.47 %) were observed in Red Azarshahr.
Conclusions
Seed priming treatments improved bulb fresh and dry yield, total dry matter, leaf area index, crop growth rate, bulb growth rate, relative growth rate and net assimilation rate as compared to the unprimed. Among the treatments, seed priming with Falomin Amino Acid 2% was more effective than the potassium nitrite 2% and hydropriming. Large seed size significantly increased the bulb fresh and dry yield and physiological growth indices. The highest bulb fresh and dry yield, total dry matter, leaf area index, crop growth rate, bulb growth rate, relative growth rate and net assimilation rate were achieved in larger seeds compared to other sizes. Accordingly, the importance of seed priming and grading seeds were obvious in this study, so seed priming with Falomin Amino Acid 2% and large seed size should be used for onion planting in order to insure high bulb fresh and dry yield and physiological growth indices of onion. Nevertheless, seed priming and seed size improved bulb fresh, and dry yield and physiological growth indices of onion cultivars were attributed to rapid seedling emergence and establishment, and consequently the optimum use of light, soil moisture and nutrients by the plants developed from the primed seeds and seed size. Therefore priming with falomin Amino Acid 2% and large seeds are recommended in onion planting for the places with the same environmental conditions of this experiment.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
766
785
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37462_ad4e7621a86f9e0740d5714a0b5bcb40.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.33466
Estimation of Corn Yield and Soil Nitrogen via Soil Electrical Conductivity Measurement Treated with Organic, Chemical and Biological Fertilizers
H
Khalilzadeh
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
author
M
Jahan
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
author
M
Nasiri mahalati
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
Around the world maize is the second crop with the most cultivated areas and amount of production, so as the most important strategic crop, have a special situation in policies, decision making, resources and inputs allocation. On the other side, negative environmental consequences of intensive consumption of agrochemicals resulted to change view concerning food production. One of the most important visions is sustainable production of enough food plus attention to social, economic and environmental aspects. Many researchers stated that the first step to achieve this goal is optimization and improvement of resources use efficiencies. According to little knowledge on relation between soil electrical conductivity and yield of maize, beside the environmental concerns about nitrogen consumption and need to replace chemical nitrogen by ecological inputs, this study designed and aimed to evaluate agroecological characteristics of corn and some soil characteristics as affected by application of organic and biological fertilizers under field conditions.
Materials and Methods
In order to probing the possibility of grain yield and soil nitrogen estimation via measurement of soil properties, a field experiment was conducted during growing season 2010 at Research Station, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications was used. Treatments included: 1- manure (30 ton ha-1), 2-vermicompost (10 ton ha-1), 3- nitroxin (containing Azotobacter sp. and Azospirillum sp., inoculation was done according to Kennedy et al.), 4- nitrogen as urea (400 kg ha-1) and 5- control (without fertilizer). Studied traits were soil pH, soil EC, soil respiration rate, N content of soil and maize yield. Soil respiration rate was measured using equation 1:
CO2= (V0- V)× N×22 Equation 1
In which V0 is the volume of consumed acid for control treatment titration, V is of the volume of consumed acid for sample treatment titration, N is acid normality.
The microbial respiration (mgCO2/g(dry soil).day1 calculated by dividing the record CO2 volume to number of days that sample have been placed on container plus dry weight of soil sample.
Results and Discussion
Results showed that soils treated with vermicompost and manure had the highest level of nitrogen during the growing season. Higher microbial respiration was recorded in soils treated with biological fertilizer. Changes in soil nitrogen and electrical conductivity was against each other and correlation results showed that soil nitrogen could be estimated via measurement of soil electrical conductivity. Changes of pH and soil nitrogen were similar and there was a significant correlation between them. Eigenberg et al. (8) suggested that the pattern of changes of soil electrical conductivity is highly dependent on soil conditions; also soil water and nutrient content are of the most important factors in determining soil EC. There is a significant and negative correlation between soil electrical conductivity and grain yield and it seems that in this region grain yield of maize can be estimated via measurement of soil electrical conductivity.
Conclusions
In general, the results indicated that there was a strong and negative relation between EC and soil N content. Also, soil EC showed a negative correlation with maize yield which suggested that it is possible to estimate soil N and maize yield through soil EC measurement during of the growing season in the study area.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
786
796
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37467_228c1d73c7801f248e6c590b0e5e0275.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.33938
The Effect of Nitroxin Biofertilizer and Foliar Applicatin of Micronutrients Time Consumption on Yield and Yield Components of New Wheat Cultivars under Khorramabad Climatic Conditions
A
Vaez
Islamic Azad University
author
A
Khorgamy
Islamic Azad University
author
M
Sayyahfar
Reasearch center of Lorestan
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
In order to study the effects of Nitroxin biofertilizer and foliar application of micronutrients time consumption on yield and yield components of new wheat cultivars (Triticum aestivum & T. durum) under Khorramabad climatic conditions, an experiment was conducted as factorial based on a randomized complete block design with three replications at the research farm khorramabad during growing season of 2012-2013.
Considering the positive effect of inoculation with bio-fertilizer and foliar Nitroxin micronutrients and reaction of cultivars to this type of fertilizer instead of chemical fertilizers and the importance of wheat as one of the main crops, this study aims to determine the most appropriate time for foliar and Nitroxin application of micronutrients at the different stages of plant growth and bio-fertilizer application on yield and yield components.
Materials and Methods
The first factor was considered in six levels: N0: The lack of the seed insemination with nitroxin biofertilizer and without the foliar application of micronutrients (control), N1: the seed inoculation with the nitroxin biofertilizer, N2: the foliar application of micronutrients at the jointing stage, N3: the foliar application of micronutrients at the heading stage, N4: the seed insemination with nitroxin biofertilizer and foliar application of micronutrients at the jointing stage, N5: the seed insemination with nitroxin biofertilizer and foliar application of micronutrients at the heading stage. The second factor was considered at two levels, consisting: V1: Parsi cultivar and V2: Dena cultivar. MSTATC Software was used for data analysis and means were compared by Duncan's multiple range test at the 5% level.
Results and Discussion
In this experiment the grain yield, biological yield, harvest index, 1000- grain weight, spike number per
m-2, grain number per spike and spikelet number per spike of wheat were studied. The results of the data variance analysis has revealed that there was a significant relationship between foliar application of micronutrients and nitroxin biofertilizer of grain yield, biological yield, harvest index, 1000- grain weight, spike number per m-2, grain number per spike and spikelet number per spike of wheat. The most positive relationship was related to grain and the applying fertilizer treatment of the grain insemination with nitroxin biofertilizer and foliar application of micronutrients at the heading stage. The cultivar factor has also a positive effect on the surveying characteristics such as grain yield, harvest index, 1000-grain weight, spike number per m-2, grain number per spike and spikelet number per spike. The most positive relationship was related to grain and the applying fertilizer treatment of the grain insemination with nitroxin biofertilizer and foliar application of micro-nutrients at the heading stage and the treatment of the Parsi cultivar with an average of 6844/3kg/ha-1. Considering the significant increase in the grain yield, the applying fertilizer treatment of the grain insemination with nitroxin biofertilizer and foliar application of micronutrients at the heading stage and the treatment of the Parsi cultivar were proposed for Khorramabad Situation.
Conclusions
In this study, significant differences between the various levels and stages of foliar fertilizer, bio Nitroxin micronutrients showed that appropriate use of these two factors can result in maximum performance of the wheat. The process of spraying micronutrients had a significant effect on grain yield. The highest yield of seed was obtained in inoculation with the combined application of organic fertilizer and foliar Nitroxin micronutrients in the treatment of stage and heading to the Persian superior varieties of grain yield. The results of this experiment showed that the use of micronutrients can improve agronomic characteristics and increase the grain yield. Micronutrient fertilizers sprayed on soil conservation assistance in achieving the objectives of sustainable agriculture. The application of biological Nitroxin because of beneficial bacteria in the soil can achieve the goals of sustainable agriculture like reducing chemical inputs and thus the protection of soil and water used in agriculture is very helpful. In this study, there were significant differences between different levels of foliar nutrients and Nitroxin the traits under study showed that the use of these two factors had positive impacts on wheat yield and led to maximum performance.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
797
809
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37471_a58a9912bd9512f82154a6a3cf7dd785.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.35460
Effect of Seed Priming on Growth and Some Physiological Characteristics of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) under salinity Stress Condition caused by Alkali Salts
H
Bekhrad
Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan
author
B
Mahdavi
Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan
author
A
Rahimi
Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
Sesame (Sesamun indicum L.) is an important oil seed crop. Its seed has excellent nutritional value with a high and unique protein composition, making it a perfect food. Salinity is a serious problem in many regions of the world including Iran. Salinity stress is one of the widespread environmental constraints affecting crop productivity. Salinity generally induces osmotic stress and causes direct ion injury by disrupting ion homeostasis and the ion balance within plant cells (25). Seed priming is one of the ways to reduce negative effects of salt which is used for increasing germination percentage and seed resistance in salty zones. Seed priming is a pre-germination treatment that provides a moisture level sufficient to start pre-germination metabolic processes. It entails the partial germination of seeds by soaking them in water (or in a solution of salts) for specified period of time, and then re-dry them just before radicle emerges (24). Priming stimulates many of the metabolic processes involved with the early phases of germination. Given that part of the germination processes have been initiated, seedlings from primed seed grow faster, grow more vigorously, and perform better in adverse conditions (24). The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of salinity stress caused by alkali salts on growth and some physiologic characteristics of sesame.
Materials and Methods
This study was conducted in a greenhouse in Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan as factorial arrangement in randomized complete block design with three replications. Experimental factors included priming (control (unprimed), hydropriming, halopriming with NaCl and NaHCO3 and level of salinity with sodium bicarbonate salt (Zero, 15, 30 and 45 mM). Seeds were planted in pots filled with perlite and cocopite (1:1). The pots were irrigated with a nutrient solution (with half strength Hoagland's solution). After the fourth true leaves appeared, salinty stress in the pot were created by adding NaHCO3, to half strength Hoagland’s solution. Control plants were only irrigated with half strength Hoagland’s solution. Plants were harvested after 45 days of seed sowing. After forty five days, shoot and root height, shoot and root dry weight, relative water content, Fv/Fm, chla, chlb, total chlorophyll, cartonoied content, potassium, sodium content and sodium to potassium, calcium and magnesium content were measured.
Results and Discussion
Results showed that salinity stress decreased shoot and root height and also shoot dry weight. Valdez-Aguilar and Reed (33) reported a decrease in Phasaeolus vulgaris L. growth with increasing sodium bicarbonate salt. By increasing sodium bicarbonate, salt relative water content decreased. Also, the decreases in relative water content have been reported in wheat under salinity stress caused by alkali condition (15). Salinity stress decreased leaf chlorophyll content and Fv/Fm. Similarly, Guo et al., (16) observed a decrease in leaf chlorophyll content and Fv/Fm with increasing sodium bicarbonate salt. Different treatments of priming increased root height and shoot dry weight compared with unprimed treatment with increasing salinity stress. Iqbal and Ashraf (18) indicated that priming increased growth in wheat under salinity stress caused by alkali condition. Moreover, relative water content, chlb content and Fv/Fm increased under different treatments of priming and stress. It seem that under stress condition, plants with maintain relative water content, chlb content and Fv/Fm, decreased the harmful effect stress. The highest shoot dry weight, relative water content, chlb content and Fv/Fm was observed at hydropriming treatment. Although salinity stress decreased K+ concentration and K+/Na+, but the Na+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ concentration increased. Zhang and Chun-Sheng (39) concluded that by increasing sodium bicarbonate salt, potassium content decreased in Lathyrus quinquenervius, whereas sodium and sodium to potassium ratio increased. Moreover, the increases in calcium and magnesium content have been indicated in sunflower (22) and wheat (15) under salinity stress caused by alkali condition. Hydropriming increased K+ concentration and K+/Na+. Iqbal and Ashraf (18) indicated that priming increased potassium content and potassium to sodium rate and decreased sodium content. All of priming treatments also increased Mg2+ concentration compared with unprimed treatment in 15 and 30 mM alkaline stress.
Conclusions
Result showed that salinity stress decreased shoot and root height, shoot dry weight, relative water content, leaf chlorophyll content and Fv/Fm. Different treatments of priming increased root height, shoot dry weight, relative water content, chlb content and Fv/Fm compared with unprimed treatment with increasing alkaline stress. The highest shoot dry weight, relative water content, chlb content and Fv/Fm also was observed at hydropriming treatment. K+ concentration and K+/Na+ decreased under salinity stress, whereas the Na+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ concentration increased. The highest K+ concentration and K+/Na+ was observed in hydropriming treatment. Also, under 15 and 30 mM salinity stress, all of priming treatments increased Mg2+ concentration compared with unprimed. So, seed priming especially hydropriming can be an effective method to improve plant growth of sesame in alkaline stress condition.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
810
822
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37477_6eb66fc90d7c93096190eafe89a09b4f.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.36039
Optimizing of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Cattle Manure Fertilizers Application in Winter Wheat Production Using Response-Surface Methodology (RSM)
M
Jahan
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
author
M
Nasiri mahalati
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
author
H
Khalilzadeh
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
author
R
Bigonah
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
author
S. A. R
Razavi
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
It is estimated that up to 50 percent of applied nitrogen would drift from agricultural systems as gaseous compounds and other types of activated nitrogen (27 and 46). When applied in high amounts, up to 90% of phosphorous fertilizers could be fixed in soil together with metallic elements as insoluble forms leading to further phosphorus pollution (1). In many crops, low absorption efficiency of fertilizers is the main reason of losses through leaching, volatilization and diffusion of soluble chemical fertilizers which easily released to soil and air. It has been reported that between 18-41 percent of applied nitrogen retain in soil after crop harvesting (Fageria, 2014). Nitrogen losses happens in different ways as ammonium volatilization in lime soils (10-70%), denitrification (9-22%) and leaching (14-40%) (13).
Chemical fertilizers are widely used by farmers due to low costs, easy availability and easy applicability. Chemical fertilizers increase the rate of organic matter decomposition in soil, thus increase the amount of greenhouse gasses such as N, CO2 released in air which aggravate global warning and climate change (2)
This research was aimed to emphasize on optimizing of chemical and organic fertilizer use in winter wheat production in Iran, study the trend of change in different N, P and cattle manure levels and their effects on wheat characteristics and its changes trend also, comparison of the effectiveness of manure by chemical fertilizer related to NUE and yield increase of wheat.
Materials and Methods
By conducting Box-Behnken design, it is possible to obtain the most information from the least operational practices due to distribution of experimental points through treatments confined. The design points were defined based on low and high levels of N (0, 300 kg ha-1), P (0, 200 kg ha-1) and manure (0, 30 tones ha-1) as shown in Table 2. Manure was analyzed for N, P and K content (1.18% of N, 0.29% of P and 1.04% of K). The high and low levels of manure were determined based on nutrient content and local recommendations.
Response of measured variables (y) to experimental factors (X) was estimated by using second order polynomials with interaction (Equation 1):
(1)
Where 0 is constant and i, ij and ii are coefficients for linear, interaction and quadratic terms, respectively.
After simulation, using statistical methods, the result is a second order polynomial which states the estimated of response (yield) as a function of inputs variables. Finally, after optimizing of resulted function and eliminating of low effect terms, using statistical tests and criteria such as, F test, lack of fit test, coefficient of determination (R2), a final function to predict yield and other expected variables was calculated (Equation 2):
(2)
In this function, Y is a dependent variable, X is the independent variable of N fertilizer, X2 is independent variable of P fertilizer, X3 is independent variable of manure, and a0 to a9 are coefficients of function. The equation is functional only in the defined range of input variables and could not predict values out of the range.
The optimized rates of N, P and manure, determined considering 3 scenarios including: economic, environmental and eco-environmental, which seed yield, N loss and NUE and N loss were the main determining factors, respectively.
To obtain optimized levels, response-surface methodology was used. Finally, the fitted values compared to observed values then validity of regression models evaluated by RMSE test (Equation 3) and 1:1 regression line.
(3) RMSE (%)
Results and Discussion
Optimization of nitrogen, phosphorus and manure fertilization were done according to 3 scenarios of economic, environmental and eco-environmental. In economic scenario, wheat seed yield was considered as the main determining factor of optimized resource, thus the result showed by applying of 145.45 kg ha-1 N, 200 kg ha-1 P and 18.48 tones ha-1 manure, it would be attained the seed yield of 6500 kg ha-1 and dry matter yield of 13130 kg ha-1. In eco-environmental scenario, the determining factor for optimizing resource was considered as nitrogen losses. The main objective of this scenario was reduction of environmental hazards resulted from the high rates of using of N, P and possibly manure, so, the economic yield had less importance. According to this scenario N application by 21.21 kg ha-1 with no use of P, plus 16.36 tones ha-1of manure, minimize N losses (0 kg ha-1). Considering the optimized amount of used resource in this scenario, seed yield, dry matter yield and NUE were estimated of 3160 kg ha-1, 11692 kg ha-1 and 9.08 kg DM/kg N, respectively.
Under eco-environmental scenario the main determining factors for optimizing resource, were considered as NUE, N losses and seed yield. As applying of 144.73 and 34.3 kg ha-1 of N and P, respectively, and 30 tones ha-1 of manure, resulted in seed yield of 4031 and dry matter yield of 15311 kg ha-1, respectively, which showed an increase of 36 percent for NUE compared to economic scenario (16.50 vs. 10.49.
Conclusions
The results of this study showed that N and P fertilizers which used for wheat production did not reflect the actual needs of different crops under different agro-climatic areas indeed, as it should be reconsidered. In this experiment, applying of 30 tones ha-1 of manure in eco-environmental scenario caused high availability of N, P and possibly other needed nutrients for plant, finally improved crop productivity. Moreover, trapped and retained nutrients in manure matrix which considered as an ecofriendly and low cost input, which simply preparable locally, improve effectiveness of chemical fertilizer in long term use.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
823
839
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37482_dcf31b9bfc4fc90f0ccc924d3a531d45.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.39788
Evaluation of Mycorrhizal Fungi, Vermicompost and Humic Acid on Essence Yield and Root Colonization of Fennel
I
Akbari
Shahrood University of Technology
author
A
Gholami
Shahrood University of Technology
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
The main objective of sustainable agriculture is to decrease the off-farm inputs such as chemical fertilizers, increased farm nutrient cycle through reduced tillage and the use of biological and organic fertilizers. Studies on medicinal plants indicates that the use of sustainable farming systems provide the best conditions for the production of these plants. Mycorrhizal fungi, vermicompost and humic acid are samples of biological and organic fertilizer that can be used, to eliminate or substantially reduce the use of chemical inputs in order to increase the quantity, quality and stability of the products. Mycorrhizal fungi are one of the most important rhizosphere microorganisms which have symbiotic relation with root of most crops. Mycorrhizal symbiosis improves the soil physical (through expansion of hyphae of fungus), chemical (through increased absorption of nutrients) and biological (the soil food web) quality. These fungus increased nutrient uptake, such as phosphorus and some micronutrients, water uptake, reducing the negative effects of environmental stress and increase resistance to pathogens and improve the quality of their host plants. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill) is one of the most important medicinal plants, as the essential oil from the seeds used in a variety of industries, pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic use. Anethole is important component of the essential oil of fennel seed.
Materials and Methods
This experiment was conducted as a factorial based on randomized complete block design in order to evaluate the effects of vermicompost application, humic acid and mycorrhizal fungi on quantitative and qualitative aspects of fennel yield at experimental farm of Shahrood University during growing season of 1391-92. This experiment includes 12 treatments and 3 applications. Vermicompost levels include: v1 (no application) v2 (4 ton ha-1) v3 (8 ton ha-1). Mycorrhizal fungi include: m1 (no inoculation) and m2 (inoculation) and humic acid include: h1(no application) and h2 (application). Each plot had 5 rows with row spacing of 50 cm and row length of 5 m was considered. Ten grams mycorrhizal fungi were added to the soil under each seed. Humic acid was sprayed in 3 stages (vegetative, reproductive and seed filling stage) according to the recommended dose (200 mg per liter). Sampling and measuring of traits were done at the end of the season and after removal of border rows. A 50 gram sample of each plot milled and then essence collected with Clevenger for three hours using water distillation. Percent of fungal colonization obtained with Gridline Intersect Method. Finally, for analysis of data and drawing shapes, MSTAT-C software and Microsoft Excel were used. Comparison of the least significant difference test (LSD) was conducted at the 5% level.
Results and Discussion
Results of this study showed the main effects of experimental factors on seed yield, essence percent and yield were significant. Comparison of mean results showed the highest seed yield (1119.37 kg ha-1) obtained from mycorrhizal colonization. With increasing vermicompost applying, seed yield also increased. So, the greatest and lowest seed yield obtained from 8 ton ha-1 vermicompost and control plots (1315 and 1016 kg ha-1), respectively. With humic acid foliar application, seed yield increased about 18 percent. In this experiment essence percent significantly increased due to mycorrhizal colonization. Essence percent of fennel seeds showed, the highest value of essence percent (2.83%) obtained from 8 ton.ha-1 vermicompost and the lowest essence was obtained from control plots (2.15%). Seed essence percent significantly increased due to humic acid foliar application compared with control plots (2.6% and 2.4% respectively). Essence yield significantly increased due to mycorrhizal inoculation (31.67 kg ha-1). Vermicompost application increased essence yield about 64 and 25 percent compared with control plots. Compared to control, humic acid increased essence yield by 22 percent. Mycorrhizal inoculation significantly increased root colonization compared with control plots (47.39 and 23.89 %, respectively). Application of vermicompost increased root colonization by about 6% compared to control plots. Combined effects of vermicompost and mycorrhiza on seed yield and essence percent were significant. Combination effects of vermicompost and mycorrhiza showed, seed yield increased about 45 percent. Moreover, combination of mycorrhiza and 8 ton.ha-1 vermicompost resulted in the highest seed essence yield (3.09 kg ha-1) that significantly was higher than control polts (2.11 kg ha-1) .The threeway interactions of factors on seed yield and essence percent was also significant. The highest essence percent of seed obtained from combination of 8 ton.ha-1 with humic acid and mycorrhizal inoculation (3.09 %) which significantly was higher than control plots (1.99%). In this treatment essence yield was 36% higher than control plots. In general, the highest amounts of anethole obtained from 8 ton ha-1 with humic acid and mycorrhizal inoculation. On the other hand, with increase in anethole the amounts of stragol, fenkon and limonene per seed essence decreased.
Conclusions
Results of this study showed that vermicompost and humic acid application and also mycorrhizal colonization, improved the quantitative and qualitative yield of fennel. So, the seed yield, essence yield and root colonization significantly affected by these factors. These factors without causing environmental damage, provide nutrients for medicinal plants, therefore improved the yield and quality.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
840
853
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37489_1f019637d91552b132527b7efdfcbb7f.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.42567
The Effects of Foliar Application of Methanol on Morphological Characteristics of Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) under Drought Stress Condition
N
Armand
Lorestan University
author
H
Amiri
Lorestan University
author
A
Ismaili
Lorestan University
author
text
article
2015
per
Introduction
Available water is an important factor for plant growth in arid environments. Results indicated that foliar application of methanol is believed to be more important than the drought tolerance in C3 plant. Since bean is a C3 plant, it performs light respiration under intense heat, light and water stress due to internal leaf CO2 concentration reduction and oxygen concentration increase. Light respiration can cause up to 20% loss of carbon in plants and decrease the yield. Increasing concentration of carbon dioxide can neutralize the effect caused by drought stress. Thus, the use of substances that can cause an increase in the concentration of carbon dioxide in the plant, leads to improving the yield under the drought conditions. One of the ways of increasing the concentration of carbon dioxide in plants is by using compounds such as methanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol as well as use of the amino acids of glycine, glutamate and aspartate. Plants can easily absorb methanol sprayed on leaves and use it as a carbon source added to atmospheric carbon. Methanol is relatively smaller compared to the CO2 molecules, so it can be easily absorbed and utilized by plants.
Materials and Methods
In order to evaluate the effects of foliar application of methanol on some morphological characteristics of bean under drought stress, a factorial experiment was conducted based on completely randomized block design with three replications in 2014 at the Khatam Alanbia University of Behbahan. The treatment of spraying methanol was at 4 levels include control (without spraying), 10, 20 and 30% v/v methanol which added 2 g l-1 glycine to each of solutions. Adding glycine to aqueous solution of methanol leads to prevention of damages caused by the toxicity of methanol. The drought factors including control (100% field of capacity), moderate drought stress (50% field of capacity) and severe drought stress (25% field of capacity) were considered. In this experiment, each experimental unit was a pot of 1 kg and 5 seeds were planted in each pot and after emergence decreased to 3 seedlings per pot. They were placed in a growth chamber with day and night temperatures as 25 °C and 15°C, respectively. Drought stress treatment based on soil moisture percentage was adjusted by measuring the weight percent of soil moisture and adding water consumed daily by each pot. Foliar application was done 3 times during the growing season and at intervals of 10 days. The first foliar application was performed during the seedling stage within 4 weeks after planting and other foliar application, respectively in early flowering and early podding. The foliar application was performed in such a way that solution droplets were present at all parts of the bean. Trait measurement was carried out 35 days after planting.
Results and Discussion
Results showed that there was significant difference (P 0.01) between methanol and drought stress regarding the plant height, number of branches, leaf number per pod, root and shoot dry weight, tap root length, root area, root diameter, root volume, and number of pod (P 0.05). All of the morphological traits were mainly affected by severe drought stress. The results of the comparing mean data in the interactions of methanol and drought stress showed that 20% methanol level in non-drought stress significantly increased in plant height, number of branches, root dry weight, root diameter and number of pod compared with control. 20% methanol level in temperate drought stress condition significantly increased the number of pod compared with non-applied methanol foliar application. Severe drought conditions in other traits except plant height difference between the levels of methanol and the methanol was observed.
Conclusions
Present study showed that the use of methanol at 20% by volume of methanol without the stress could be effective but failed to reduce the negative effects of drought stress on bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.cv. sadry) plants.
Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
2008-1472
13
v.
4
no.
2015
854
863
https://jcesc.um.ac.ir/article_37494_cd315f0378c3b85cf93d2ccd5f300d4e.pdf
dx.doi.org/10.22067/gsc.v13i4.43526