Effect of Nitrogen Fertilizer and Fungicide Application on Disease Severity, Yield and Yield Related Traits of Emmer Wheat (<i>Triticum diccocom L.</i>) in Highlands of Bale, Southeastern Ethiopia

Abstract

Emmer wheat is produced mostly in the highlands of Ethiopia, including Bale. There is a significant amount of emmer wheat in Bale zone during both bona (main) and gena (short) cropping seasons and is one of the major crops in the region. However, its production and productivity is curtailed by leaf rust which is caused by Puccinia tritici and nitrogen fertilizer management. A field experiment was conducted to determine the effect of nitrogen fertilizer on emmer wheat production and to evaluate integrated effect of nitrogen fertilizer and fungicide application on disease severity, yield and yield related traits of emmer wheat at two locations from 2012-2014 main cropping season. Treatments were composed of one improved variety (Sinana-01), fungicide spray timing: at growth stages of (GS) 33-36, 33-36&59-69, nil and complete control (at 7 days interval) and nitrogen fertilizer: at the rate of 0, 23, 46 and 69 kg/ha. Plots were set in factorial arrangement laid in randomized complete block design in three replications. There was difference among the four levels of N-fertilizer application in grain yield and leaf rust severity. The highest and lowest grain yield was obtained from 0-23 kg/ha and 46-69 kg/ha N-fertilizer, respectively. Maximum mean disease severity was recorded from maximum N-fertilizer application. Difference was observed among fungicide treatments in controlling leaf rust. Highest mean leaf rust severity was recorded on nil fungicide application while the lowest from fungicide application at 7-days interval (complete control). Optimum level of nitrogen fertilizer (0-23 kg/ha) and at least one time spray of fungicide should be recommended for emmer wheat production in Bale.