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EFFECT OF SOIL MOISTURE ON GROWTH ATTRIBUTES, ROOT CHARACTERS AND YIELD OF MUSTARD (BRASSICA JUNCEA L.)

R.K. MONDAL AND N.K. PAUL

Abstract: Two cultivars of mustard, Sambal and Daulat were grown in soil in polythene bags under well-watered and water-stressed conditions. Soil moisture had significant effect on total dry matter production and leaf area development. In irrigated plants more assimilates were translocated to the reproductive parts. Leaf area ratio (LAR) and leaf weight ratio (LWR) were significantly higher in the well-watered plants. Relative growth rate (RGR), net assimilation rate (NAR), relative leaf growth rate (RLGR) and specific leaf area (SLA) were not affected by soil moisture. Among the root characters, only the number of primary roots was significantly higher in the well-watered plants. Seed yield and some of its components increased by irrigation. Reasons for better performance of Daulat in the water-stressed condition are discussed.

Crop Physiology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi 6205, Bangladesh.