Evaluation of Garlic Yield, Yield Components, and WUE under Different Irrigation and Nitrogen Conditions

Water deficit is not avoidable under arid and semiarid regions. But, the adverse effects of water deficit can be reduced by recognition of the impact processes and application of suitable chemical fertilizers. Nitrogen requirement varies under different irrigation managements and its proper usage can prevent drastic reduction of yield under the abovementioned conditions. This study was conducted for evaluating the combined effects of nitrogen and irrigation on the yield and quality of the local cultivar of garlic (Allium sativum L.). The study was performed as a split-block based on randomized complete blocks design with factors of irrigation at four levels (0-3, 3-6, 6-9 and 9-12 meters distance from the main line source), and nitrogen at four levels (0, 50,100 and 150 kg N per ha) using three replications and line source sprinkler irrigation system. The total irrigation water was measured by catch cans that were fixed in the middle of each plot. The results showed that the application of nitrogen significantly increased yield, tuber and leaf nitrogen concentration of garlic, and decreased mean cloves weight. The water deficit decreased yield, mean cloves weight and leaf nitrogen concentration of garlic and increased number of sheaths on bulbs and water use efficiency. The interaction of nitrogen and irrigation was not significant on the measured attributes. The highest amount of garlic yield was obtained by using 409 mm irrigation and 100 kg N per ha.