Diversified nitrogen rates influence nitrogen agronomic efficiency and seed yield response index of sesame (Sesamum Indicum, L.) cultivars

Abstract

Due to elevating costs of N fertilizer and growing apprehensions about nitrate, experiments evaluating nitrogen agronomic efficiency (NAE) is becoming increasingly important in crop production. NAE and seed yield potentiality of three cultivars of sesame (Shandwel–1, Giza–32 and Sohag–1) were evaluated under four N applications (0, 72, 108, and 144 kg N ha⁻¹) in a field experiment. Results showed that Sohag–1 recorded the highest values of yield and yields traits surpassing the other two cultivars. Sesame plants received 144 or 108 kg N ha⁻¹ produced the highest seed yield. In plots fertilized by 108 or 144 kg N ha⁻¹, Sohag–1 was the potent cultivar for recording higher seed yield. N addition more or less than 108 kg N ha⁻¹ caused suppression in NAE. Sohag–1 was the most effective and responsive cultivar in N use being exceeded the averages of each seed yield at zero N rate and seed yield response index (SYRI).