Response of Dual-Purpose Barley (Hordeum vulgare) to Different Sowing Dates and Nutrient Management

Dual-Purpose Barley (Hordeum vulgare) to Different Sowing Dates

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is a vital crop for food and fodder production in semi-arid regions. Its grain potential is well documented in previous studies but its dual-purpose potential has not been evaluated completely. Growing of dual-purpose barley is an approach for producing forage as well as grain in marginal environments having low forages.

Objective: To optimize dual-purpose performance of barley, the objective of this study was to investigated the impact of sowing dates, NPK fertilizer levels and different cutting intervals on barley productivity in the semi-arid conditions of Multan, Pakistan.

Methodology: The experiment was conducted in 2021, with two sowing dates (1st November and 25th November) and two NPK fertilizer levels (recommended dose and 25% higher). Results showed that early sown barley without cuttings yielded the highest grain and biomass production at the recommended fertilizer dose. Delayed sowing and barley harvest at 60 days after sowing negatively impacted barley performance.

Results: These findings suggested that early sowing with recommended NPK fertilizer application can enhance dual-purpose barley productivity in semi-arid environments, contributing to food security and sustainable agriculture. The best sowing time for dual purpose barley crop starts from the mid of last week of October to first week of November for the semi-arid region of South Punjab and preferred time of cutting at vegetative stage for fodder is 45 days post-sowing.

Conclusion: Standard fertilization dose must be applied to ensure proper growth, development and nourishment of barley plants and also to enhance its productivity. Furthermore, early sowing and optimum fertilization ensures healthy plants having more resistance against pest and diseases than the late sowing