Abstract:
A field experiment was conducted for two consecutive years (2013 and 2014) during the dry periods
under irrigation at Dabat District, Northwestern Ethiopia to select the best adaptable and
high yielder varieties. Five garlic varieties (BishoftuNech, Kuriftu, Tseday 92, MM-98 and the local)
were planted on randomized complete block design with three replications. Data on days to emergence,
days to maturity, pseudo stem height, number of leaves per plant, bulb diameter, number of
cloves per bulb, fresh bulb weight, bulb yield, and bulb dry matter content were collected and
subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SAS computer software version 9.0. Mean separation
test was done by list significant difference (LSD) test at 5% probability level. The results revealed
that varieties were significantly differed in all parameters. BishoftuNech was early maturing
variety (135 days) followed by Kuriftu (143 days). MM-98 was matured lately at 176 days after
planting. Significantly highest pseudo stem height and number of leaves per plant were recorded
from the local variety. Similarly, significantly highest yield of 16.56 t∙ha−1 was recorded from the
local variety. MM-98 and the local variety were with the highest bulb dry matter content of 25.83
and 23.86%, respectively. This research proved that the improved varieties were not compared
with the local cultivar before they get released. Therefore, the result of this research can be used
as good information for the future garlic variety development program at national level. Considering
the most desirable yield and yield component parameters, the local variety is recommended
to the producers at Dabat District. Further research on collection, characterization and
evaluation of the local cultivars should be conducted for national use.
