Effects of Irrigation Water Salinity on Three Commercial Sunflower Hybrids

In order to study the effects of irrigation water salinity on the yield and yield components of three commercial sunflower hybrids, this experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design and three replications in Rodasht Agricultural Research Station during three years. The main factors of irrigation water quality were at 4 levels i. e. 2, 5, 8, and 11 dS m-1 and the sub main factors were sunflower hybrids Allstar, Haysan 33, and Azargol. Statistical analysis results showed that salinity and high concentration of some minerals, especially sodium ions, in irrigation water affected the diameter, total oil yieldو and water use efficiency was significant at 1% level, while the effects on plant height, stem diameter, seed weight, grain yield, water use, and oil percent was significant at 5% level. Statistical analysis showed that the effects of hybrids on the diameter, oil yield, plant height, stem diameter, weight of 100 seeds, and water use efficiency were significant at the 1% level, and on yield at 5% level. In terms of performance, hybrids Haysan 33, Azargol, and Allstar had, respectively, the highest seed yield, oil yield, and water use efficiency.