| Abstrakt: |
Parasitic weed Striga (Striga hermonthica and Striga asiatica) poses the greatest threat to sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] production in sub-Saharan Africa. Several control options have been attempted but none was most effective when deployed individually. In this study combination of three different Striga control options namely resistant variety, tied-ridge tillage, N fertilizer and their controls (susceptible variety, flat bed plating, and no N fertilizer) were evaluated at two Striga infested locations (Sirinka and Kobo) in Ethiopia in 2002 and 2003. Plots consisted of six 5-m long rows and the experiment was replicated four times. Grain yield, biomass, and 1000-kernel weight were determined. Striga emergence and vigor were recorded four times beginning 15 d after the first Striga plant emerged. Grain yield was 121% higher with the package involving the resistant variety, tied-ridging, and N application compared with the package consisting of the controls. The use of the treatment combination involving resistant variety, tied-ridges, and N fertilizer resulted in yield increases of 11, 42, and 43%, respectively. Striga emergence and vigor were 4 and 63% for the resistant variety and 85 and 100% for the N fertilizer, respectively, compared with the controls. Number of emerged Striga was 152% higher in tie-ridged plots but Striga vigor was not affected. Resistant varieties should serve as central component in all integrated approaches for management of Striga in sorghum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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