Comparison of growth indices, oil percentage and seed yield of three Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) genotypes under different plant densities in Rostam region, Fars province

Sesame is an oily and medicinal seeds adapted to tropic and semi-tropic regions of the world but cultivation of its new accessions has been developed in temperate regions. To evaluate the effect of plant density on growth indices, seed oil percentage and seed yield of three sesame genotypes, an experiment was conducted as factorial based on a randomized complete block design with three replications in 2014, in Rostam region, Fars, Iran. First factor was planted density at five levels (15, 25, 35, 45 and 55 plant m-2) and the second factor was three sesame genotypes (Nurabad, Borazjan and Darab 14). The result showed that maximum and minimum LAI was achieved from Nurabad and Darab 14 and also from 15 and 55 plant m-2, respectively. Growth indices analyzing showed that Nurabad was better than the two genotypes. Maximum CGR ranged from 1.96-2.62 g m-2 GDD-1. Nurabad and Borazjan had the maximum RGR at the beginning of the growing season. Plant density decreased oil percentage and Borazjan had the maximum seed oil percentage. Generally, regards to the results, Nurabad with 55 plant m-2 density performed better than other genotypes in Rostam region. Borazjan in 55 plant m-2 density can be a good alternative for Nurabad.