Assessment of grain yield and plant characteristics in vetch (Vicia ervilia L.) genotypes in cold dryland conditions of Northern Khorasan

To evaluate grain yield and different agronomic traits in vetch (Vicia ervilia L.) genotypes, a field experiment was conducted using randomized complete block design, in Shirvan Dryland Agricultural Research Station, Northern Khorasan, Iran, as spring planting in 2004, 2005 and 2006 cropping seasons. During the growing season, crop stand, days to 50% flowering, plant height, and days to maturity were recorded. At harvest, 100 grain weight, harvest index biologic yield and grain yield per plot were measured. Data of each season were analyzed separately and then on data for three seasons combined analysis of variance was performed. The effect of year on all traits was significant. The highest grain yield and biologic yield obtained in 2005. There was significant differences between the genotypes for all of traits, except crop stand. Genotype No. 10 with 1940 kg.ha-1 of biologic yield and 947 kg.ha-1 of grain yield and No. 11 with 1836 kg.ha-1 of biologic yield and 891 kg.ha-1 of grain yield performed better over three seasons. These genotypes were also earlier in days to 50% flowering, day to maturity and more desirable plant height.