Abstract

Tillage system is one of the main factors influencing growth and physiology of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), that eventually translates to high yield and good kernel quality. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of the ridge (RT) and flat tillage (FT) systems on (i) growth and production of spring wheat, (ii) root growth and physiology and (iii) soil physical properties. Trials were conducted at Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, Njoro and Egerton University. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) in a split plot arrangement with tillage system as the main plot and cultivar as sub-plot was used in the study. Data analysis was done using PROC GLM procedure from SAS software version 9.4. The study showed that root length, surface area and volume were 34.66, 42.17 and 47.56% higher in RT than FT, respectively. The RT had 8, 7.66, 39.19 and 20% higher NDVI, TKW, yield and HI, than FT. Soil moisture and electrical conductivity were 38.43 and 9.02% higher in the RT than FT. Soil temperature and BD were 1.05 and 38.94% higher in FT than RT. The RT provided a conducive environment for wheat growth and physiology, resulting in high yield and kernel quality.

Key words: Wheat, physiology, ridge-furrow, flat-tillage, grain yield.