Effect of frequency and quantity of irrigation on growth and yield of cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.)

Abstract

The effects of two irrigation intervals (1- and 3 days) and three application rates (3-, 6-, and 9 mm day−1) on growth and yield of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) were studied under the relatively warm (23 °C) and humid (63 per cent R.H.) winter conditions of Oman in the Gulf region. The head weight, head diameter and leaf weight increased significantly with increasing application rate from 3 to 6 mm per day, corresponding to maximum soil moisture tensions of more than 100 kPa and less than 80 kPa respectively. With 9 mm per day, yields were maximized and tensions maintained lower than that of field capacity. A significant increase in number of leaves at the lower water application rate was associated with a significant decrease in head weight and diameter. Root mass was not significantly affected by the watering regime; the shallowness in depth with increasing water applications being compensated by thickened roots and more branching, maintaining total weight and volume. Irrigation frequency and its interaction with quantity had no significant effect on the growth and yield. It is concluded that 1.2 ETo of water could be applied every day or 3.6 ETo every 3 days, with similar results.