Evaluation of Yield and Yield Components of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) in Different Treatments of Irrigation Distance and Sowing Date

To evaluate different irrigation regimes and planting dates on plant height, stem diameter, yield, and yield components of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) a split plot experiment based on randomized complete blocks with three replications was conducted in Karaj during 2017 growing season. Experimental treatments were irrigation intervals (8, 10 and 12 days) as a main plot, and planting dates with three levels (4th, 18th of June and 2th July) as a sub-plot. The results of analysis of variance showed that the main effect of irrigation interval was significant on all traits under study. Planting date treatment had a significant effect only on plant height, stem diameter, number of plant branches, number of plant leaves, number of fruits, fresh fruit yield and dry fruit yield. The interaction of irrigation interval treatment and planting date had no significant effect on the trails under study. The highest chlorophyll concentration (3.68 mg.g-1 FW), plant height (100.4 cm), number of branches (3.1), number of leaves per plant (24.8), number of fruits per plant (10.5) and fresh fruit yield (4023 kg.ha-1) were belonged to the irrigation interval of 8 days. Irrigation interval of 12 days decreased by 30.4, 21.7, 21.3 and 28.4 % in stem diameter, fruit length, fruit diameter and dry fruit yield, compared to irrigation interval of 8 days interval, respectively. The highest plant height (99.2 cm), number of branches (2.5), number of leaves per plant (23.3) and number of fruits (9.77) were observed of June 4th planting date. The highest fruit yield was obtained in June 18th planting. Based on the results obtained it can be concluded that irrigation interval of 8 days is recommended to achieve maximum fruit yield and to shorten the length of growing period, saving in water consumption and maximum yield performance in the Karaj region, the date of 18th June is recommended.