Performance of Amaranth (Amaranthus Cruentus L.) Genotypes for Leaf Yield in Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Production and utilization of Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) is not well known in Ethiopia. Limited research work has been done so far to develop improved varieties and agronomic practices. The present experiment was conducted to evaluate vegetable amaranth genotypes for adaptation, leaf yield and quality. Materials and Methods: Five genotypes were evaluated at three locations Melkassa, Holleta and Assosa Agricultural Research Centers in 2015 and 2016 under rainfed and irrigated conditions. The experiment was laid out in RCBD with three replications with plot size of 6m². Data on quantitative and qualitative characters were collected and subjected to environment wise analysis of variance followed by pooled analysis. Results: Genotypes were diverse in vegetative, leaf characteristics and yield responses. The overall combined analysis in the rainfed and irrigated conditions across locations and years showed significant difference in total leaf yield (p<0.01)among genotypes. Genotype Madiira-II was the superior genotype interms of leaf yield (15.82 t ha^-1) followed by genotype AC-NL (14.65 t ha^-1). There was also significant difference among genotypes in plant height, leaf length and leaf weight at p<0.01. The highest plant height was recorded from genotype Mandiira-II followed by AC-NL. Conclusions: In general, genotypes Mandiira-II and AC-NL were found superior in leaf yield and leaf characteristics and thus identified for release to be used as alternative vegetable source in the country.

Keywords: Amaranth genotypes, Leaf characters,  Leaf yield , Performance