Wheat genotypes under different seeding rates

Abstract

The wheat tillering capacity defines yield and yield components, being affected by seeding rate. This study aimed at evaluating wheat genotypes under different seeding rates, in Londrina and Ponta Grossa, Paraná State, Brazil, in 2009 and 2010. A completely randomized blocks design, in a factorial scheme, with four replications, was used. The agronomic traits of three wheat genotypes (PF 014384, BRS Tangará and BRS Pardela) were evaluated under the seeding rates of 150 pl m^-2, 250 pl m^-2, 350 pl m^-2 and 450 pl m^-2. In Londrina, the maximum yield was observed at densities close to 270 pl m^-2, while in Ponta Grossa (2009) there was a linear fit. There was no adjustment for plant height, concerning seeding rate. The number of ears per area (ears m^-2) was higher in Ponta Grossa (2009) and did not differ between the locations, in 2010. In Ponta Grossa (2010), the highest one thousand seeds weight was estimated at the density of 341 pl m^-2, while in Londrina (2010) it was estimated at 150 pl m^-2 and 450 pl m^-2. The seeding rate affected grain yield, depending on place and year. In Londrina, there was a limit for yield, concerning seeding rate. The one thousand seeds weight was influenced by seeding rate, depending on year and location. Plant height was affected by genotype and growing area.