Authors: M.A. Adebisi, M.O. Ajala, D.K. Ojo, A.W. Salau
Journal of Tropical Agriculture 43 (1-2):13-18, 2005
Abstract
A field experiment was conducted to assess the impact of three population densities and two seasons on seed yield of 14 genetically diverse Nigerian sesame genotypes. Cultivars 530-6-1, Type A and Pbtil No 1 generally outperformed others. Population density of 166,667 plants ha-1 gave 40% more yield than that at 266,667 plants ha-1 and was the best for maximizing yield under rain-fed conditions. Regarding seasonal influences, yield was about 11% higher in the 2002 season than in 2001. Heritability results revealed that seed weight is highly heritable in sesame with a possibility for high selection gains, while the other yield components were greatly influenced by population densities and seasons signifying moderate-to-high gains. Significant positive relationship was found between seed yield and capsule weight, capsule number and seed production efficiency implying that yield is a function of these parameters and selection based on these could further improve the yield potential.