جستجوی مقالات مرتبط با کلیدواژه « عملکرد بذر » در نشریات گروه « کشاورزی »

The application of bio-fertilizers, especially mycorrhizal fungi, is known as one of the most important nutritional approaches in sustainable agriculture and agricultural ecosystem management. Among the numerous microorganisms in the rhizosphere, some have positive effects on plant growth promotion. These microorganisms are bio fertilizers such as plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria, which colonize the rhizosphere and roots of many plant species and confer beneficial effects to plants. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of two species of arbuscular mycorrhizal funguswas assessed on yield and yield components of three Iranian ecotypes of black seed medicinal plant.

To determine the inoculation of mycorrhizal fungi on yield and yield components of different ecotypes of black seed, a factorial experiment in randomized complete block design with three replications was conducted. The experiment was conducted as factorial in Sarayan faculty of agriculture at 2018, with two factors, the Rhizophagus fasciculatum and Rhizophagus mosseae species of mycorrhizal as first factor, Sarayan, Hamedan, and Shahrekord ecotypes of black seed as second factor, in three replications. The traits studied in this research were plant height, stem diameter, number of branches, the average height of the first branch, root length, total chlorophyll, number of flowering branches, the average height of the first capsule, capsule length, capsule diameter, number of capsules per plant, number of seeds per capsules, 1000-seed weight, grain yield, biological yield, harvest index, and straw yield.

The analysis of variance showed significant differences among investigated ecotypes of black seed for all traits. However, none of the above traits were affected by the interaction of Ecotype × mycorrhiza. In addition, the highest values of plant height (19.85 cm), the average height of the first branch (8.99 cm), root length (13.63 cm), the average height of the first capsule (19.16 cm), and capsule length (8.38 cm) for Hamadan ecotype, the highest values of the number of seeds per capsule (53.31 grains), biological yield (75.8 g.m-2), grain yield (26.16 g.m-2), and straw yield (49.64 g.m-2) for Shahrekord ecotype, and the highest 1000-seed weight (2.34 g) and harvest index (42.67%) for Sarayan cultivar were obtained. In other hand, the means of pod diameter, pod length, and number of flowering branches were increased in plants treated with both species of mycorrhizal bio-fertilizer than the control treatment so that the highest values in the number of flowering branches (8.24 cm) and capsule length (8.18 cm) were obtained under the application of Rhizophagus mosseae, and the thickest capsules (8.24 cm) were achieved under the application of frtilizers contained Rhizophagus fasciculatum. The results of simple correlation analysis showed the positive and significant correlation of seed yield trait with root length, number of secondary branches, number of flowering branches, number of pods per plants, and number of seeds per pod, at 5% probability level, and with biological yield and straw yield traits at 1% probability level. Results of path analysis showed positive direct effect of number of flowering branches and biological yield traits on grain yield and the highest positive direct effect was recorded for biological yield. In contrast, the highest negative direct effect on the grain yield of investigated ecotypes was obtained for the straw yield.

It was shown that there was a significant difference between the three black seed ecotypes in morphological and functional traits, so that Shahrekord and Hamedan ecotypes were superior in all traits (except thousand seed weight and harvest index) compared to Sarayan ecotype. In general, our findings demonstrated the relationship between morphological traits and yield components of black seed ecotypes under the inoculation of mycorrhiza strains, which can be employed in black seed breeding programs as a reference. Also, it is suggested that ecotypes/genotypes that are better in biological and straw yield traits were used for cretia selection traits in future.

Water deficit is as one of the most ominous abiotic factors that limits the growth and yield of crops and reduced photosynthesis content (Askary et al., 2017). The common symptoms determined in plants after encountering water deficit include a hindrance to growth, a reduction in the rate of photosynthesis, an acceleration oxidative stress (Aalipour et al., 2020). A balanced nutrient concentration in the soil is known as another essential element for plant growth regulation (Taghizadeh et al. 2019). This can be supplied by the application of chemical fertilizers (nano iron chelate). Nano iron chelate fertilizer can also protect plants against water deficit stresses and improves photosynthesis and assimilates transportation to sinks and eventually amends grain yield and oil content (Moradbeygi et al., 2020). The aim of this study was to investigate the response of Dragon head (Lalelemantia iberica) and Lady's mantle (Lalelemantia royleana) to the application of nano-chelate fertilizer in different irrigation regimes.

The field trial was conducted at the Research Farm of the Agricultural Faculty of Shahed University, Tehran, during the cropping season of 2018 and 2019. A split-factorial experiment was employed in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The main plot consisted of three-level of irrigation regime (30% (I30; without stress), 60% (I60; mild stress), and 90% (I90; sever stress) depletion of available water resource). The sub plots were factorial combination nano-iron chelate (without fertilizer and nano-iron chelate) and plant species of Lallemantia (L.iberica and L. royleana).

By increasing water deficit reduced, chlorophyll a and b, CAT and APXs enzyme activity, plant height, root length, seed yield, content of mucilage and oil. The reduction of plant growth parameters and seed yield of both species Lallemantia may be due to extended irrigation intervals which caused decline in Chl concentration, stomata closure, and decreased CO2 uptake for photosynthesis (Paravar et al., 2021). Our results showed that the highest chlorophyll a and b, CAT and APXs enzyme activity, plant height, root length, seed yield, content of mucilage and oil was obtained at 60% available water soil of depletion (moderate drought stress). The application nano-iron chelate in all cases mitigated the negative effects of water deficit stress on chlorophyll a and b, CAT and APXs enzyme activity, plant height, root length, seed yield, content of mucilage and oil. Increasing in growth parameters and seed yield under drought stress of Lallemantia species under application of nano-iron chelate condition in drought stress may be due to the role of iron the chlorophyll structure and plant photosynthesis system (Moradbeygi et al., 2020). Indeed application of nano-iron chelate by photosynthesis improvement and material production in the plant causes the increasing growth and yield. (Iqbal and Umar, 2019). In addition, in this study observed nano-iron chalet application played the important role on the increasing of CAT and APXs enzyme activity under drought stress. It has been reported that micronutrients such as iron has a structural role in some enzyme such as CAT and APXs (Moradbeygi et al., 2020). Higher seed yield and seed oil  L.iberica than L.royleana  under application nano-iron chelate and different levels of irrigation regimes may be due to the increasing chlorophyll a and b (Paravar et al., 2022). Compared with L.iberica, the greater CAT and APXs enzyme activity in L.royleana is probably due to the mucilage around roots of L.royleana that has caused the reduction of oxidative stress (Paravar et al., 2021).

Therefore, in general in this research, it can be concluded that under water deficit stress conditions, we can reduce damages from water deficit stress in both species of Lallemantia with careful irrigation management (using an irrigation regime of 60% available water soil of depletion) and application nano-iro chelate.

This study attempts to investigate the effect of application of humic acid and seaweed extract on morphology, growth, yield, and yield components of quinoa under drought stress in 2018-2019 in two different locations, Qasr Shirin and Dalahou. It has been performed as split plots in a randomized complete block design with 4 replications. Experimental treatments include three irrigation treatments (full irrigation, irrigation cut-off at the beginning of flowering and irrigation cut-off at the beginning of seed filling) and foliar spraying treatments with different amounts of humic acid (foliar application at the rate of 1.5 kg / ha and 2 Kg / ha) and seaweed extract (foliar application at 1 kg / ha and 1.5 kg / ha) along with a control treatment. Results show that seed yield in Dalahou region under normal condation has been 24.78% higher than Qasrshirin region. Seed yield in different irrigation treatments under the influence of foliar application show that in all irrigation treatments, the effect of foliar application of humic acid and seaweed extract on seed yield has been positive compared to the control. In full irrigation conditions, the highest seed yield is obtained from foliar application of humic acid, while in irrigation cut-off treatments, the effect of seaweed extract on seed yield has been better than humic acid. The weight of 1000 seeds in quinoa produced in Dalahu region has been more than Qasrshirin region but in both regions drought stress has reduced the 1000 seeds weight. In all irrigation treatments, application of humic acid and algae extract has increased 1000-seed weight.

 In recent years, the aggressive application of chemical fertilizers for agricultural production has endangered the health of soil, water, air, as well as crops, and has raised many concerns for the global environment and human health. In addition to the positive biological effects and modification of soil physical and chemical properties due to the gradual release of nutrients, organic fertilizers cause less pollution in the environment. Due to the significant role of medicinal and aromatic plants in different industries, it is important to increasing production of yield and secondary metabolite produced without the use of harmful chemical fertilizers. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill) is widely grown in arid and semi-arid regions and due to its economic importance and pharmaceutical industrial applications, it is one of the world’s most dimension medicinal plant. This plant has antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiinflammatory, diuretic, carminative and analgesic effects and is effective in gastrointestinal disorder treatment. Moreover with its antioxidant and antiulcer properties, it is used to treat neurological disorders.

 This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of organic and biological fertilizers on the morpho-physiological and phytochemical properties of fennel (Foeniculum vulgar Miller). In this study, the impacts of vermicompost (0, 4, 8% in pot), animal manure (0, 7.5, 15% in pot) and mycorrhizal fungi (0, 1%) on physiological and biochemical properties of fennel in greenhouse conditions was evaluated. In order to extract the samples to measure biochemical factors, methanol 70% was used at a ratio of 5:1 (volume- weight). Determination of free radical scavenging was performed by using the DPPH test. The samples’ absorptions were read at a wavelength of 517 nm with Epoch Microplate Spectrophotometer, BioTek Instruments, Inc., USA. Measuring the total phenols was performed according to the Folin’s reagent method and the use of gallic acid as standard (purchased from the brand MERCK, Germany) by using a spectrophotometer at the wavelength of 765 nm. Total flavonoid content was measured using a spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 510 nm through a standard curve of quercetin from Sigma-Aldrich. The Essential oils were obtained from seeds by hydrodistillation for 3 h using a clevenger type device. The analyses of essential oil volatile components were determined by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Data were analyzed by using Duncan’s multiple range test (P< 0.05) by SAS, version 9.4 for Windows.

 The results of current investigation showed that organic and biological fertilizers improved the fennel yield and phytochemical properties such as the plant height, seed weight per plant, fresh and dry weight of roots and plants, content of total phenols and flavonoids, antioxidant activity, percentage of essential oil and root colonization. The highest plant height, number of flowers, umbrellas and seeds per plant and fresh and dry weight of roots were obtained after combined application of 8% in pot vermicompost, 15% in pot animal manure and application of mycorrhiza. According to the results, the highest amount of total flavonoids (177.66 mg/100g DW) and root colonization (35.8%) after of 8% in pot vermicompost + 15% in pot animal manure + mycorrhiza application was observed. The results also revealed that the highest fresh and dry weight of the plants (121.33 and 17.41 g, respectively) was obtained after application of mycorrhiza + 15% in pot animal manure. Application of mycorrhiza in combination with 15% in pot animal manure compared to other treatments caused a significant increase in total phenol content in aerial parts with 73.22 mg/100g DW. In addition, the highest amount of antioxidant activity (51%) was obtained after 8% in pot vermicompost + 15% in pot animal manure application. Application of organic and biological fertilizers significantly increased the 1000 seed weight and the percentage of essential oil in fennel. After 15% in pot animal manure treatment, the highest percentage of essential oil by 3.43% was recorded. In general, the highest percentages of essential oil components were related to (E)-Anethole (78.26%), Fenchone (7.15%), Limonene (6.12%) and Methyl chavicol (3.85%), respectively. The amount of (E)-Anethole as the essential oil predominant compound, in the control treatment was 66.92%. The application of mycorrhiza + 4% in pot vermicompost increased the content of (E) -Anethole in essential oil to 80.72%.

 In general, application of vermicompost, animal manure and mycorrhizal fungi improved the growth, biochemical and yield characteristics and essential oil yield of fennel in greenhouse conditions. These fertilizers increased plant yield by providing large amounts of required nutrients and affecting various aspects of root growth and development. Among them, the role of nitrogen may be more prominent due to its participation in protein synthesis and the role of iron in nitrogen fixation, photosynthesis and electron transfer.

An experiment as factorial with completely randomized block design with four replications during two continuous years (2019-2020) was carried out in order to evaluate the efficiency of rice (Oryza sativa L.) by seed tape technology and its comparison with transplanting and traditional direct seeding cultivations. The first factor consisted of two rice cultivars (Khazar and Hashemi) and the second one consisted of ten levels of seed priming treatment with three methods (transplanting, traditional direct and direct with seed tape technology). The two main challenges of rice production in traditional transplanting and direct seeded methods are the high share of labor and the increased cost. Therefore, new methods of cultivation should be sought to reduce the cost of rice production. In the present study, direct seeded of rice with seed priming treatments and seed tape technology, with reduction of labor and cost is presented. Agronomy parameters and cost production factors were evaluated in these three methods. The results showed that the use of direct seeded method with seed tape technology increased rice yield by eight percent and saved 25 percent in cost, as well as a 11 percent reduction during the growing period, 30 percent in the number of labor per hectare, 26 percent in the production cost per kilogram of white rice and 2.2 percent in the cost-benefit index in Hashemi cultivar compared to the cultivation method. Therefore, direct seeded with seed tape technology, done for the first time in Iran, is effective in reducing the cost of rice production.

Lentil is used mainly for human consumption as a source of protein and carbohydrate in soups, stews and vegetarian dishes. It is grown to improve economic returns to producers, diversify and lengthen crop rotations, and reduce nitrogen fertilizer requirement. Lentil, a member of the legume family, Leguminosae, can supply a significant portion of its nitrogen requirement by fixing nitrogen from the air when it is inoculated with the appropriate rhizobial inoculant. The pattern of nutrients in the proximal composition of lentil is similar to that of other grain legumes, but with seed protein content of 19.5–35.5%. Fiber concentration is low and is largely within the seed testa, so the fiber in lentil meal can be reduced if it is de-hulled before grinding. In addition to high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and major minerals, its seed contains iron up to 505 mg per kg and zinc up to 330 mg per kg on a whole seed basis. Amino acids help in tissue protein formation. Some amino acids are not synthesized in the body and it is necessary to take them in diet. Lentils contain different amino acids that can be used by most people. This research was carried out to study the effect of different Amino Acids on the activity of antioxidant enzymes, proline content and seed yield of Lentil in delayed planting. 

In order to study the effect of different amino acids on yield and biochemical traits of lentil, a factorial experiment was conducted based on a randomized complete block design with three replications in the research farm of agricultural faculty, Tarbiat Modares University, through May to July 2018. The factors studied included mode of application (priming, spraying and priming+spraying) and type of amino acids (Arginine, Aspartic acid, Proline, trade amino acid and distilled water (control)). The amount of amino acids used was 1 g per liter. In this study, leaf, stem, pod and total fresh weight, leaf area, leaf to stem, chlorophyll content (a, b and total), the number of pods per square meter, 1000 grain weight, harvest index and seed yield were determined. Statistical analysis of data was performed using SAS software version 9.4. To compare the means, the least significant difference (LSD) test was used at a 5% probability level. Also Excel software was used to obtain different equations and draw curves and chartsharts. 

The results showed that the highest total chlorophyll (16.18 mg gF.W-1), chlorophyll a (13.92 mg gF.W1) and chlorophyll b (2.53 mg gF.W-1) was obtained from the priming with aspartic acid. The number of pods per plant (13.11) was more than the others in priming and spraying with aspartic acid. Amino acid application produced more leaf than control (distilled water). The arginine, aspartic acid, proline and commercial amino acids produced 46, 55, 20 and 52% more leaf fresh weight, respectively. The application of aspartic acid with 88.87 g m-2 produced the highest yield (more than three-fold relative to the control), followed by the application of arginine (55.51 g m-2), commercial amine (44.4 g m-2) and proline (32.78 g m2). The application of aspartic acid via both priming and spraying is suggested as the best treatment. 

Plants create amino acids from primary elements they absorb from the environment. Carbon and oxygen are obtained from the air. Hydrogen and nitrogen are obtained from the soil. Inside the plant, amino acids are formed through metabolic pathways. Plants, like all other forms of life, require amino acids to create cells. These cells are then used to build various vital parts of a plant like roots and leaves. Amino acids are quite literally the foundation of life, especially when it comes to plants. If plants can utilize supplementary amino acids without creating them out of oxygen, carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen and sometimes sulfur, they would have much more available energy to use where it is necessary. When amino acids are properly applied, the impacts are profound. According to the results of this study, amino acids can reduce the stress of delayed planting. In the absence of amino acid, yield reduction will be higher. The application of aspartic acid via both priming and spraying is suggested as the best treatment.

In order to evaluate the effect of plant density and nitrogen fertilizer on phonological, qualitative, photosynthesis capacity and yield components of guar native population, an experiment was carried out as split plot based on randomized complete blocks design with three replications in 2018 at Iranshahr, Iran. The main factor was four levels of plant density (25, 45, 60 and 85 plants/m2) and the sub factor, nitrogen fertilizer from the source of urea (0, 50, 100, 150 kg / ha). The results of variance analysis showed that the effect of plant density on all traits was significant, except carbohydrate, protein and gum at 1% level. Comparison of mean plant density showed that 25 and 85 plants / m2 had the highest and lowest number of branches, respectively. Treatments of 45 and 85 plants /m2 had the highest and lowest mean of seed yield and biological yield per hectare, respectively. The interaction of 100 kg N fertilizer and 60 plants/ m2 devoted the highest percentage of protein and interaction of 0 kg N fertilizer and 45 plants/m2 has minimum protein percent. Results showed that, in order to obtain high seed and gum yield product, density of 45 plants/m2 followed by 50 kg nitrogen/ha in Grembite landraces were recommended.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the genetic variation of 26 selected genotypes of Phalaris aquatica L. based on important agronomic traits. Each selected genotype was divided into four clones and they were space planted according to a randomized complete block design with four replications under irrigation conditions in the Khalatposhan research station of Tabriz University, Iran. Data collection was started in March 2017 for two years. The results of analysis of variance showed significant differences among the studied genotypes for most traits (P<0.01). Accordingly, the mean comparisons of the traits among genotypes were conducted. Using principal component analysis (PCA), the first two components were accounted 66% of the total variation. The traits like forage yield in both cuts, crown diameter, plant height, and seed yield had the most important role in determining the first component. Based on cluster analysis, the 26 genotypes were grouped into four distinct groups. Based on the mean comparison results, principal component, and cluster analyses, 12 genotypes with the highest forage and seed yields in both years were selected as superior genotypes. Therefore, this population provided a suitable genetic source for breeding improved varieties using polycross progeny tests and breeding improved synthetic variety.

To evaluate the salinity tolerance of Milk thistle, an investigation was conducted in a completely randomized design with 3 replications in a pot in the greenhouse of the National Salinity Research Center. Experimental treatment includes 5 levels 0.44 (control), 3, 6, 9 and 12 dS/m. The results showed that the application of salinity levels significantly reduced all the studied traits. Regarding some growth and yield-related traits, increasing salinity from control to salinity of 12 dS/m reduced plant height by 89%, grain yield by 79%, biological yield by 46%, and harvest index by 59%. Also, with increasing salinity level, relative water content decreased by 9.86% and ion leakage increased by 38.53%. Potassium and sodium elements of plant shoots were also significantly affected by salinity so that increasing salinity from control to 12 dS/m had a significant effect on reducing the ratio of potassium to sodium and caused a 69% decrease in this ratio. The results showed that the salinity tolerance threshold (seed yield) was 0.19 dS/m and a 50% reduction in yield was obtained at a salinity of 7.21 dS/m. In general, according to the results, it seems that Milk thistle does not have a high tolerance to salinity.

Introduction of high yielding forage cultivars for different climates is necessary to use in pasture establishment and rangeland renovation. Thus, increasing forage yield is one of the most important goals in cool-season grass breeding programs. Tall fescue (Festuca Arundinacea Schreb.) is a perennial cool-season grass adapted to a wide range of growing conditions. Tall fescue is one of the most drought, heat, and wear tolerant species among perennial cool-season grasses. Due to its large and deep root system, it is able to take up water in dry periods when other grasses have stopped their growth. Then it could be a good choice for pasture establishment and rangeland renovation in Iran. This study was carried out to identify important traits which are effective to increase forage yield in the tall fescue in East Azarbaijan region of Iran.

For this purpose, 32 tall fescue genotypes were evaluated in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 4 replications in research farm of Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute of Northwest and West region of Iran- Tabriz in 2016. Each replication contained 5 spaced single plants 60 cm apart. Eleven agro-morphological characteristics were measured.

The correlation coefficients showed that total dry forage yield and seed yield had significant and positive correlation with all traits except days to heading and days to pollination. Total dry forage yield had significant and positive correlation with plant height, canopy diameter, stem number, and crown diameter (0.650**, 0.763**, 0.500**, and 0.750**, respectively). Stepwise regression analysis, considering the total dry forage yield as the dependent variable, showed that canopy diameter and crown diameter were entered into the model. These traits in total justified 64.1 percent of the regression model changed. Moreover, stepwise regression analysis, considering the seed yield as the dependent variable, showed that total dry forage yield, stem number, and canopy diameter were entered into the model. According to the results, canopy diameter (0.453) and crown diameter (0.394) had highest direct effects on the total dry forage yield and for the seed yield, total dry forage yield (0.797) and stem number (0.423) had highest direct effects.

Based on the results of this study, canopy diameter and crown diameter had greater relative importance in determining the total dry forage yield of tall fescue. Thus, plant canopy and crown diameter cold be used as an indicator in selection of best tall fescue genotypes in breeding programs.

Foeniculum vulgare Mill. is one of the medicinal plants, which is widely used in pharmaceutical and food industries. Due to the effective role of micronutrients in the quantitative and qualitative yield of medicinal plants, the effect of foliar application of iron chelate (0, 1.5 and 3 g/L) and zinc chelate (0, 1.5 and 3 g/L) on the functional properties and essential oil content of native and improved (cv. Soroksari) fennel was evaluated. The experiment was conducted as a split-split plot, based on RCB design with three replications during 2018 at the University of Kurdistan. Simple effects of iron chelate, the interaction iron chelate and cultivar, as well as the interaction iron chelate, zinc chelate and cultivar type, had no significant effect on measured traits. Zinc chelate significantly affected most of the studied traits, so that the highest of essential oil content (5.06%) and yield (35.07 L/ha) were belonged to 3 g/L treatment, while the highest seed yield (884.2 kg/ha) was obtained in zero treatment of zinc chelate. The interaction of iron chelate and zinc chelate as well as the interaction of zinc chelate and cultivar had only a significant effect on seed width and number of umbels, respectively. The impact of cultivar had a significant effect, on the number of umbels per plant, seed yield, and essential oil yield, so that the highest average of mentioned traits (25.29, 765.26 kg/ha and 34.27 L/ha, respectively) were belonged to native fennel. Generally, among the fertilizer treatments, 3 g/L zinc chelate and between the two types of fennel, native fennels were recognized as superior.

Black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) is one of the medicinal plants of Ranunculaceae family. Its seeds are containing oils, proteins, alkaloids (such as nigellicine and nigellidine), quinines (such as thymoquinone), sapiens and essential oil. Genetic diversity is important in breeding programs, so that selection depends on the existence of genetic diversity in traits. Therefore, an investigation was carried out to select the most successful Black cumin ecotype (s) and to assess the genetic diversity according to the morphological and agronomical traits in some of black cumin ecotypes at two locations based on randomized complete block design with 4 replications (in the research filed of Mohaghegh Ardabili University and Khalkhal city). The results of analysis of variance showed significant differences among studied traits in both locations, wich indicates the existance of genetic variation between ecotypes and the difference in location effect on yield and morphological traits of black cumin ecotypes. According to the results of correlation analysis, it can be concluded that the biological yield, leaf number, number of stem branches and number of flowers and follicle were the most important and effective traits affecting yield and considering that among genotypes, the biggest diversity were observed for these traits, therefore, selecting and breeding for these traits can ideally improve the grain yield. Comparison of means of grain yield showed that Karaj, Ardabil 1, Takestan, Hamadan, Lordegan ecotypes were superior to other ecotypes in both locations.

Biodiversity of medicinal and aromatic plants contributes significantly towards human livelihood and development and thus plays a predominant role in the wellbeing of the global population. According to WHO reports, around 80 % of the global population still relies on traditional medicines and natural substances. Descurainia sophia L. seed, also known as flixweed, a commonly used herbal medicine in Iranian folk medicine is one of those medicinal herbs with prevalent use. Agronomic practices are required to be standardized for realizing yield potential. Among the different agronomic practices, foliar spray of macronutrients is most important factor in determining the yield. Plant density is another important agronomic factor that manipulates micro- environment and affects growth, development and yield of plants. Within certain limits, increase of plant population density declines the growth and yield per plant but the reverse occurs for yield per unit area. The optimum plant density to attain highest yield may vary with the genotype and agronomic factor. Hence the purpose of this study was to determine the effects of plant density and leaf spraying on growth, yield and yield components of flixweed under Torbat-e Jam climatic conditions. In order to study the effects of plant density and leaf spraying of growth, biological yield, seed yield, yield components and harvest index of flixweed, an experiment was conducted as factorial layout based on a randomized complete block design with three replications at the Agricultural Research Station, Azad University of Torbt-e Jam, Khorasan-e Razavi during growing season of 2016-2017. Treatments included four plant densities (10, 20 and 40 plants.m-2) and leaf straying at three plant stages (such as emergence, before flowering and early seed formation stages) and control (without spraying). Leaf spraying was done using complete fertilizer (5:1000). Studied traits were plant height, number of branches per plant, 1000- seed weight, seed yield, biological yield, dry weight of shoot, fresh weight of shoot and harvest index. The treatments were run as an analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine if significant differences existed among treatments means. Multiple comparison tests were conducted for significant effects using the Duncan’s test. The results showed that the simple effect of plant density was significant (p≤0.05) on number of branches per plant and harvest index of flixweed. The simple effect of foliar spraying was significant (p≤0.05) on number of branches per plant and 1000-seed weight of flixweed. The interaction effect between plant density and foliar spraying had significant effect on number of branches per plant, dry weight of shoot, seed yield, biological yield and harvest index of flixweed. The highest seed yield, biological yield and dry weight of shoot were recorded in 40 plants.m-2+ foliar spraying at early seed formation with 99, 495 and 396 g.m-2, respectively. The minimum seed yield was observed in 10 plants.m-2+ without spraying with 35 g.m-2. The lowest biological yield and dry weight were obtained in 20 plants.m-2+ foliar spraying at early seed formation with 168 and 126 g.m-2, respectively. The results for correlation coefficients between yield and yield components revealed that the highest coefficient was calculated for biological yield and dry weight of shoot (r=0.97**). Agronomic management strategies had significantly effect on growth, yield, and yield components of flixweed. Generally, plant density and nutrient management are two effective techniques for agronomic management of medicinal plants such as flixweed that may decline the necessity for chemical and intensive approaches to the plant. The findings of the present study indicate that foliar spraying would be an advisable treatment that produces higher seed yield. In total, according to the results, the plant density of 40 plants.m-2+ foliar spraying at early seed formation is recommended to realize maximum seed yield flixweed cultivation in Torbat-e Jam region, Iran.

Vitamins affect many metabolic and biological processes in plants and participate in the synthesis of enzymes, nucleic acids, and proteins as coenzyme in their metabolic pathways. In order to evaluate the effect of foliar application of thiamine on growth, yield, yield components and essential oil of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.), a field experiment was conducted as factorial on the basis of a randomized complete block design with three replications at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Maragheh, Iran in 2015. The treatments were included three levels of thiamine foliar application (zero; distilled water), 50 and 100 μm/l) and foliar application stages in four levels of stem elongation, flowering, grain filing, and all three stages. The results showed that the effect of thiamine on all traits was significant. The concentration of 50 μm/l thiamine had the maximum increasing effect on the number of sub stems, number of umbels per plant, number of umbelets per umbel, number of grains per umbelet, grain yield, and essential oil yield and the concentration of 100 μm/l thiamine had the maximum increasing effect on the plant height, 1000-grain weight, biological yield, and essential oil percentage,compared to control. The effect of foliar application stages on the number of umbelets per umbel, number of grains per umbelt, and 1000-grain weight were significant and their highest values were obtained by thiamine foliar application in all three stages (stemming, flowering, grain filing). The interaction effects of the treatments were not significant on any of the traits. In general, results of this experiment showed that the foliar application of 50 and 100 μm/l thiamine at stemming, flowering, and grain filing stages can improve the seed yield and essential oil yield of fennel.

In order to evaluatethe the effects of planting arrangment and methods on quantitative and qualitative characteristics of tomato seed (Lycopersiconesculentum, cv. Karoon), a factorial experiment carried out based on a randomized complete block design with three replications at two locations of Khorasan Razavi province in 2012. Three inter row space including 120, 140 and 160 centimeters, three intra plant space including 30, 40 and 50 centimeters, and also two planting methods including one and two row per ridge were selected as treatments. Traits under consideration were fruit and seed yield, number of fruit per plant, number of seed per fruit, thousand seed weight, hectolitre weight, percentage and rate of germination. Compound analysis of variance for locations showed that increasing in inter row space from 120 to 160 centimeters had a significant increase in number of fruit per plant and number of seed per fruit 11.4 and 9.6 percent, respectively. Decreasing in intra plant space from 50 to 30 centimeters showed a significant decrease in number of fruit per plant, number of seed per fruit, thousand seed weight and hectolitre weight 20.7, 11.1, 4.5 and 3.9 percent, respectively. Two row per ridge had a significant decreasing in number of fruit per plant, number of seed per fruit, thousand seed weight and hectolitre weight 6.3, 7.8, 4.1 and 1.8 percent, respectively. The highest and lowest fruit and seed yield were obtained in Rokh (two row per ridge and 120×30 cm planting pattern) and Toroq (one row per ridge and 140×50 cm planting pattern) regions, respectively with 2.7 and 3.1 times difference. Generally, two row arrangement method and 150×30 centimeters planting pattern have positive effect on seed quantity and quality criteria.

In order to study the effects of planting date on quantitative and qualitative characteristics of different clover seed varieties, this research was conducted in a field during cropping year of 2012. The research facilities of Seed and Plant Improvement Institute of Karaj use at this study. This research in split plots including the major factor of planting date on 3 cultivation levels (conventional planting date 11 September and delayed planting date including 5 September and 20 October) and the sub-factor clover genotypes at 10 cultivation levels (Persian clover 7 cultivar, Berseem clover (production in Karaj). red clover, a variety called Nasim and Locki clover, a variety called Alborz 1). This research was conducted in a randomized complete block design (RBCD) with four replications. The results showed that the effect of planting date for traits such as grain yield, harvest index and seed quality traits is significant at one percent level. The results seed quality traits showed that the first planting date (11 September) with 86.4 germination percentage and 38.3 germination rate is the best treatment. Comparing the varieties showed that the Persian clover cultivars number 1 with 92.2% germination and 43.8-rate germination is the highest rate. Comparing the mean of varieties showed that the Crimson clover Alborz number 1 seed with 35 grams weight and the harvest index of 4.5 best among the studied varieties

This research was conducted to study relationships among yield and yield components in Orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata). For this purpose 25 half sib families derived from poly cross of 25 parental genotypes were evaluated under two moisture environments (normal and drought conditions) according to a randomized complete block design at the research farm of Isfahan University of Technology. The results indicated that seed yield had positive correlation with most of the studied traits. The highest correlations were observed between seed yield and seed weight in panicle (0.96**) and seed number in plant (0.89**) in non-stress and drought stress conditions, respectively. The correlations of seed yield with flag leaf width and flag leaf length were 0.41 and 0.39 in non-stress conditions. The results of factor analysis indicated that flag leaf is an important trait for improving seed yield. According to regression analysis seed weight in panicle, seed number in panicle and seed number in plant accounted for 98 and 96% of seed yield variation under normal and drought conditions, respectively. Path analysis for seed yield showed that under normal condition, seed weight per panicle and seed number per plant and under drought stress condition, seed number and thousand seed weight had the highest direct effect on seed yield. Genetic information on association among seed related traits can be used for increasing efficiency of indirect selection of seed yield in this crop.

A two-year study (2005 - 2006) was carried out to explore the effect of deficit irrigation treatments according to evaporation from a class A basin، including ET= 1 (T1)، ET = 0. 75 (T2)، and ET = 0. 5 (T3)، on yield، yield components and seed yield of three varieties of watermelon (Charleston Gray، Sugar Baby and Crimson Suite) in the Varamin Agricultural Research Center of Iran. A randomized complete block design with a split plot arrangement with four replications was used. The results showed that fruit yield، yield components and seed yield were not significantly different in T1 and T2 treatments in contrary to T3 treatment. Among the yield components، number of fruits per plant most suffered from the negative impact of severe water stress (T3) (1. 20 fruit per plant). Rind thickness، percent soluble solids in fruit and seed yield were not affected by water stress. According to phenotypic traits، and correlation coefficients، a significant positive correlation (1% probability level) was observed between the weighted average، and the number of fruit with the fruit yield. Crimson Suite cultivar produced the highest yield (2533 kg ha-1) compared to the cultivars Charleston Gray and Sugar Baby. Sugar Baby and Crimson Suite cultivars، with 311. 7 and 298. 2 kg ha-1، respectively، produced the highest amount of seed. Crimson Suite cultiavr had the highest percentage of soluble solids in fruit (1. 35). Rind thickness in Crimson Suites، Charleston Gray and Sugar Baby cultivars were 1. 35، 1. 13 and 1. 10 cm، respectively. The results of this study showed that under a moderate moisture stress condition (ET = 0. 75)، fruit and seed yield could be similar to the no-water stress conditions.