From Minimum Tillage to No Tillage, Reaction of Waha, Variety of Durum Wheat in Algerian Semi-arid Region

Abstract

The cereal grain producing regions in Algeria are semi-arid characterized by climatic constraints such as frost, the sirocco and especially irregular rainfall their deficit coincides with the demand for the cereal. To address this deficit, increased production must be achieved by improving efficiency, by correcting the climate constraint. Several studies have been conducted with the aim of diagnosing the behavior of grain and develop technical routes for different regions of the country. Our study is to compare three crop management practiced on durum wheat. The trial was conducted in the semi arid region of Setif. The techniques applied are conventional tillage (CT), the minimum tillage (TM) and direct drilling (SD). The direct drilling gives good results with high leaf area and plant height which directly influenced the yield and its components. The length of the ear was very similar for both SD and CT techniques. For root development the SD has a tendency to expand horizontally in contrast to the TC and TM. The TM has a higher stomatal resistance than the TC and SD. From stage swelling the water content is high in SD. The technique of direct seeding promotes water retention especially at critical times. This shows the interest that can provide direct seeding in Algeria, where water shortages due to deficient rainfall is the main factor limiting cereal

Keywords

• crop management, direct drilling, conventional tillage, minimum tillage, stomatal resistance, RWC, variety WAHA

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