Growth and Yield Performance of Jerusalem Artichoke Clones in a Semiarid Region of China

Abstract

This study investigated biomass yield and growth characteristics of 26 Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.) clones and assessed it as a bioenergy crop for a semiarid region of the Loess Plateau in China. Genotype, year, and genotype × year interaction contributed to differences in crop development, growth characteristics, and biomass yields (dry matter). Generally, biomass yields in 2011 were lower than in 2008, mainly due to a more severe soil moisture deficit in 2011. Shoot and tuber biomass yields (STBY) ranged from 18.9 to 35.0 Mg ha−1 in 2008 and from 16.1 to 24.8 Mg ha−1 in 2011. Clones HUB‐2 and BJ‐4 produced the highest shoot biomass yield (SBY), amounting to 31.3 and 25.6 Mg ha−1, respectively, in the wetter year but higher drought sensitivity. Clones HUN‐2, SD‐2, and SHH‐1 produced the second highest SBY, which varied between 14.3 and 20.1 Mg ha−1. Clones GZ‐1, HEN‐1, HUB‐1, IM‐1, and SX‐2 are recommended for tuber production and produced tuber yields >8 Mg ha−1 in both seasons. Clones SD‐2 and SHH‐1 exhibited drought sensitivity indices <1.00, indicating that they were less sensitive to drought combined with a good yield level. Biplot analysis showed that HUB‐2 and BJ‐4 were the best performers in STBY and SBY. A combination of physiological traits associated with high STBY and drought tolerance may be most promising for further selection in a breeding program. To make a full assessment under more extreme conditions, we recommend a multiyear experiment at similar locations.