Selection of Dry Pea (Pisum Sativum) Varieties and their Performance by Comparison with Barley and Wheat in Mediterranean Environments

Abstract

SUMMARYThe possibility of growing dry peas in the semi-arid areas of Mediterranean countries was assessed by comparing dry pea (Pisum sativum L.) varieties with the highest yielding barley and durum wheat varieties under rainfed conditions and with supplementary irrigation in Cyprus. The yield of barley cv. Kantara was greater than that of the best pea variety selected, PS 210713, especially under the driest conditions, but the differences between cereals and dry pea varieties were smaller when grown in areas where there was more rain or where supplementary irrigation was supplied. The protein content of the dry seeds and straw of the peas was higher than those of the cereals. It is concluded that selected varieties of dry peas could be grown in dry Mediterranean areas, particularly in rotation with barley or wheat.Pisum sativum L. para zonas mediterráneas