Phosphorus uptake and use efficiency of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) genotypes in response to phosphorus availability, central highland, Ethiopia

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted at Debre Zeit to evaluate the response of fenugreek genotypes to phosphorus availability in terms of phosphorus uptake and use efficiency in 2018. The experiment was consisted of six genotypes (Bishoftu, Chala, Ebbisa, Hunda, 28605 and 28606) and four P levels (0, 9, 17and 26 kg P ha^{- 1}). The treatments were assigned in completely randomized block design with factorial arrangement of three replications. The results showed that P uptake efficiency was significantly differed among the genotypes. Chala variety had better total P uptake and P uptake efficiency among the tested genotypes. Phosphorus application significantly influenced haulm P concentration, haulm P uptake, total uptake, P uptake efficiency and P utilization efficiency. Total P uptake was enhanced to the varied magnitude up to 17 kg P ha^-1. As P supply increased P uptake efficiency and utilization efficiency were decreased. Seed yield, seed P concentration, seed P uptake and P use efficiency were influenced by interaction effect of genotype and P supply. Based on P use efficiency expressed in seed yield; three genotypes (Bishoftu, Chala and 28606) were grouped as efficient responder. The other genotypes (Ebbisa, Hunda and, 28605) were grouped into inefficient non responder. Therefore, the efficient responder varieties; Bishoftu and Chala can be recommended for farmers in the study area and areas of similar agro-ecology. Furthermore, 28606 accession as efficient and responder genotype for P availability can be recommend for future improvement in fenugreek breeding programs.