Performance of Triticale in Comparison with Barley and Wheat in a Semi-Arid Mediterranean Region

Abstract

SUMMARYEight triticale lines were evaluated in Cyprus during the period 1977–82 and compared with the best other cereal varieties grown locally. One triticale line was selected which outyielded Athenais barley by 8.3% and Pitic 62 aestivum wheat by 11.4% in drylands, and durum and aestivum wheat by 20% in irrigated areas. Regression analysis showed that Athenais was the best yielding crop in the least productive environments while under medium or favourable conditions triticale gave maximum yields. Number of grains per spike, harvest index and the N content of grain were larger but ear number, 1000-grain weight and N content of straw were smaller in triticale than in barley. The yield component most sensitive to drought was 1000-grain weight.