Effect of different sowing depths on soybean growth and dry matter yield

摘要

An important objective of seeding for improved crop performance is putting seeds at a desired depth. Seeds should be sown at a depth that increases the likelihood of germination, emergence and improved growth. This study examined the effect of different sowing depths on the growth and dry matter yield of Anidaso soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] on Ferric Acrisol (sandy loam soil) during the 2008 minor and 2009 major cropping seasons in Kumasi, Ghana under rainfed conditions. A randomised complete block design arrangement in three replications was used for the experiment. The treatments consisted of 2, 3, 5, 7 and 9 cm sowing depths. Analysis of variance showed significant effect of depth of sowing on Anidaso soybean variety performance. Sowing at a depth of 5 cm produced the tallest plant, biggest stem girth, highest number of leaves per plant, longest root and highest dry matter yield. The 9 cm sowing depth (i.e. the deepest sowing depth) gave the shortest plant, smallest stem girth, lowest number of leaves per plant, shortest root and smallest dry matter yield. The findings indicate that for improved growth and dry matter yield, Anidaso soybean variety should be sown at a depth of 5 cm.