Effect of sowing date on seed yield and quality of two okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) cultivars

Abstract

This study was conducted for one season at the experimental farm of the College of Agricultural Studies, Sudan University of Science and Technology at Shambat to study the effect of sowing dates (July – August) on growth and seed yield and quality of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench). Two okra cultivars (Khartomia and Wadgamar), and three different sowing dates (1/7, 18/7, 11/8) were tested using a split plot design with four replications. The late sowing (18/7, 11/8) had a significant negative effect on vegetative growth (plant height and days to 50% flowering) compared to the early one (1st of July). This was also reflected on seed yield and its components (pod and seed yield and shelling percentage), especially, for sowings later than mid July. Seed quality (seed weight and seedling growth) of both cultivars was negatively affected by sowings in third week of July and second week of August. It could be concluded that sowing in the first week of July, may be suitable for okra seed production.