Growth Pattern Analysis of Winter Sown Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) Due to Variation of Sowing Time

Safflower, renowned for its versatility in applications such as edible oil production, industrial uses, and potential health benefits, holds significance in global agriculture owing to its temperature tolerance and utility in crop rotation. This study aimed to investigate the impact of different winter season sowing times on diverse growth parameters of safflower. The research, comprising three replications and involving two distinct safflower genotypes (Olas and Linas), examined four distinct sowing times between October 30 and December 14, spaced 15 days apart. Parameters evaluated included Leaf Area Index (LAI), Relative Growth Rate (RGR), Net Assimilation Rate (NAR), Crop Growth Rate (CGR), and Total Dry Matter (TDM). The findings revealed that early sowing time is advantageous across several parameters, particularly in total dry matter accumulation, except the net assimilation rate. Early sown plants exhibited higher values for leaf area index, crop growth rate, dry matter accumulation, and net assimilation rate. Conversely, late-sown plants displayed a higher partial growth rate, influenced by factors such as shorter daylight duration and a lower leaf area index. In consideration of these comprehensive evaluations, the conclusion is drawn that the choice of safflower sowing time should hinge on a meticulous assessment of specific growth parameters of interest. The optimal sowing time should align with the traits under scrutiny, thus maximizing the overall performance and potential yield of the crop.