The performance of selected small grain cultivars under an irrigation gradient

Abstract

Differential adaptations of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) and wheat (Triticum spp.) genotypes suggest that they be evaluated under multi-environmental conditions. The objectives of this study were to determine if small grain genotypes, bred for various moisture conditions, respond differently in terms of yield, water use, and rooting pattern to contrasting moisture conditions. Eight small grain genotypes were compared under a gradient of water from 89 to 404 mm (plus 254 mm of stored water) in a field study at Marana, AZ. A barley bred for low input conditions had greater root density in the subsoil and used moisture earlier in the season when compared to a high input barley (WestBred Gustoe). The cultivars bred for high input conditions required more water for optimum yield compared to those bred for low input conditions.