Effects of Planting Date and Seed Density on Grain Yield and Yield Components of Two Triticale Genotypes

To determine the suitable planting date and seeding density of two triticale genotypes in Mashhad climatic conditions during 2007-2009 growing seasons, an experiment was carried out, using a Split-factorial based on randomized complete block design with three replication, at Torogh Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center, Mashhad, Iran. Main plots were devoted to five planting dates and sub plot were factorial combination of three planting densities and two triticale genotypes. Planting dates were Oct. 7, Oct. 22, Nov. 6, Nov. 21 and Dec. 6 and triticale genotypes were: ET-79-17 and Sanabad. The results showed that, the effect of planting date on grain yield, biological yield and number of grain per spike was significant. The highest grain yield was oblained from second planting date (Oct. 22) and delay in planting date decreased grain yield. Delay in planting date, decreased yield in average of 55 kg ha-1 per day. However, results showed that the best planting date for triticale genotypes was Oct. 22 in Mashhad climatic condition. The effect of seeding density on biological yield was significant and with increasing seeding density, biological yield was decreased. There was no significant difference among seeding density for grain yield and the 250 seeds per m2 was the best density for triticale. Significant differences were not observed between two genotype concerning grain yield and other traits.