Influence of Gypsum application on Wheat (Triticum aestivum) yield and Components on Saline and Alkaline Soils of Tigray region, Ethiopia

Green house trials were conducted at Mekelle University main Campus, Tigray region, Ethiopia, during the early season of the year 2008. The research aimed at investigating the influence of different rate of gypsum effects on the yield and components of Wheat (Triticum aestivum) on saline soil. Wheat seeds were grown in pots with different levels of gypsum concentration (0, 50,100 and 150kg/pot) and irrigated with the same quantity of water. Base line soil analysis results shows that the soil is salty, heavy clay structure and high EC value confirming its salinity. A complete randomized design with three replicates was used. Data were analyzed for variance and LSD at 5% level of significance. Results showed that gypsum application significantly enhanced all parameters taken. Result indicated that the use of 100kg/pot responded better at early stage while 50kg/pot improved yield and growth latter. The use of 50kg/pot enhanced the crop performance in all characters considered with the least result from the control. The significant effect on germination percentage, root-dry weight, fresh weight, days to heading of plant and plant height confirmed that the use of gypsum on saline soils is a better option for improving productivity on alkaline soils. A better response of 100kg/pot at early stage and 50kg/pot latter indicates that salinity effect reduces with time. However, for proper recommendation and improvement of significance, there is need to re-investigate the experiment on the field and calibrate with green house result with proper irrigation, drainage and leaching to minimize salt accumulation in the root zone and improve nutrient uptake