Evaluation of dual purpose barley varieties under irrigated situation

Abstract

Barley besides providing grain, has anormous potential for fodder and is fast emerging as promising crop for dual purpose. Four varieties of barley were evaluated under irrigated conditions for green fodder and grain production during rabi 2007-08 at Agricultural Research Station, Keshwana, Jalore. Green fodder cut was taken at 48 days after sowing and regenerated crop was managed for grain production. Differences among barley varieties for green fodder yield were found statistically significant. Variety RD-2715 recorded maximum green fodder yield of 229.20 q/ha, which was statistically at par with RD-2552. The lowest fodder production was attained with PL-751 (191.20 q/ha). However, seed yield was maximum in variety RD-2035 (46.20 q/ha) and straw yield in RD-2552 (68 q/ha) in regenerated crop. The gross returns received from green fodder, grain and straw yields were maximum in RD-2715 (64270/ha) followed by RD2035 (Rs 62640/ha). Therefore, varieties RD-2715 and RD-2035 were found suitable and seem to be promising for the cultivation as dual purpose crop.