Iranian Journal of Field Crop Science

Iranian Journal of Field Crop Science

An Evaluation of Growth and Yield of Forage Corn with Application of Different Levels of Super Absorbent Polymer (SUPERAB A200) and under Drought Stress

Authors
B. MOAZZEN GHAMSARI
Gh. A. AKBARI
M. J. ZOHORIAN
A. B. NIKNIAEE
Abstract
Water deficit is one of the most important problems facing crop production in arid and semiarid regions in Iran. Application of super absorbent polymers may somehow control yield reduction in some crop plants under drought stress conditions. In this investigation, the effect of different levels of super absorbent polymer, SUPERAB A200 (0, 100, 200, 300 Kg/h), and three irrigation intervals (7, 9, 11 days) on growth and yield of forage corn (single cross 704) was evaluated under field conditions during summer 2004. Results revealed that the utilization of super absorbent polymers did increase yield, height and relative growth rate of forage corn crop. In contrast, an increase in irrigation interval, although accompanied by reduction in water consumption, caused decrease in the above-mentioned traits. A linear relationship was observed in either case of increase or decrease in traits as affected by either of the experimental factors.
Keywords
A
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forage corn
Super absorbent polymers
Water stress and irrigation intervals