Performance Evaluation of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) Varieties under Irrigation Condition in Low land Areas of South Omo Zone, Southern Ethiopia

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is one of the world’s most important oilseed crops together with oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.), soybean (Glycine max (L.) and rapeseed (Brassica napus L.). However, in south Omo Zone the yield of this crop is limited mainly due to lack of improved sunflower varieties. This field experiment was conducted during 2021/22 and 2022/23 main cropping season to evaluate and recommending high yielder sunflower variety for yield production at Benna-Tesemay and Selamago District in South Omo Zone, Southern Ethiopia. The experiment involves three improved varieties (Russian Black, Oissa, Ayehu) and Local check. The experiment was conducted using randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications. The varieties were planted in rows with 4 m width and 4m length (16m2) along five rows per plot, 75cm between rows and 25cm between plants. Data were collected on days to maturity, plant height, head diameter, head per plant, primary braches per plant, grain yield and thousand seed weight and the collected data were subjected to analysis of variance using SAS software. The combined analysis of variance was done after homogeneity test for yield and yield related traits for locations. The combined mean squares for the treatments were significant (P< 0.05) for Days to maturity, primary braches, head per plant, head diameter and grain yield. However, there is none significant difference (P>0.05) for plant height and thousand seed weight .From the evaluated varieties, the maximum combined mean grain yield was recorded from varieties, Russian Black (2110.8kg ha-1) and Oissa (1861.8 kg ha-1) while, the minimum combined mean grain yield was recorded to local variety (1290.4kg ha-1) . It couled be concluded that varieties Russian Black (2110.8kg ha-1) and Oisa (1861.8 kg ha-1) can be demonstrated and popularized as well as important for the target area and similar agro-ecologies. Key words: Grain yield, location, performance, Sunflower, varieties DOI: 10.7176/JNSR/16-1-01 Publication date: January 30th 2025