Adaptation trial of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) varieties in the mid land areas of Guji zone, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L,) is one of the most important spice and cash crop produced in Ethiopia. However, information related to potential of the midland areas of Guji zone for Coriander production is limited. This experiment was conducted in the Kiltu sorsa, Gobicha and Dole areas at three farmers’ field to evaluate the growth and yield performance of Coriander varieties and to select and recommend high yielding as well as diseases resistant Coriander variety(s). Five improved Coriander varieties Walta’i, Batu, Tulu, Indium 01 and Denkinesh were cultivated. The treatments were arranged in randomized completed block design (RCBD) with three replications. Statical analysis indicated significant differences (P≤ 0.05) among the Coriander varieties for days to 50% emergence, days to 50% flowering, days to 90% physiological maturity, plant height, number of branches per plant,1000 seed weight and seed yield. The highest seed yield was recorded from Denkinesh (18.27 qt ha-1) followed by Tulu (13.86 qt ha-1) improved Coriander varieties respectively. But, the lowest seed yield was obtained from Indium 01variety (1.67 qt ha-1). Accordingly, Coriander improved varieties Denkinesh and Tulu were selected by farmers due to their best performance, adaptability, and highest seed yield. Therefore, these two Denkinesh and Tulu Coriander varieties are recommended in the study area.