The effects of wastewater irrigation on sugar content and morphological traits of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.)

In order to evaluate the effects of wastewater irrigation on sugar content and morphological traits of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.), an experiment was conducted in split plot design based on randomized complete block design with three replications at Research Station in Shahrekord University in 2013. The treatments consisted of irrigation with urban wastewater at 2-4 and 8-12 leaf stages, and irrigation with normal water (control) in main plots, and four types of fertilizer including sheep manure, mushroom compost, chemical fertilizer, and no fertilizer (control) in sub-plot. Results showed that irrigation at 8-12 leaf stage significantly increased single root weight, shoot fresh weight, root length and diameter in comparison with control. However, copper and manganese concentration in shoot, sugar content, and white sugar content were not influenced significantly. Fertilizer treatments had significant influence on the aforesaid traits. The maximum single root weight, shoot fresh weight, and root length and diameter were observed in sheep manure treatment and irrigation at 8-12 leaf stage.