Morphological and yield traits of elite soybean genotypes in Uganda

Abstract

Soybean has become an important crop in Uganda with innumerable possibilities of not only improving agriculture but also support industries. Makerere University centre for soybean improvement and development developed 23 genotypes and 2 local checks to boost the productivity of soybean but scanty information exists on their yield and agronomic performance. The aim of this study was to describe these genotypes basing on their morphological and yield traits and this would be used as a criterion to select out the genotypes with the best traits that can be advanced to the DUS test. The twenty three genotypes and two local checks were planted in a randomized complete block design with three replications at Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) in Wakiso district. Data on the various t raits was collected through physical observation, direct counting for the yield components, measuring of plan height and the data was analyzed by use of Genstat 14thedition. The study showed a significant difference (p< 0.05) in the number of seeds per pod, number of pods per plant, yield per hectare, and 100 seed weight. Days to maturity, lodging, plant height, pod clearance among others. Genotypes with high yield per hectare, high 100 sedweight, low lodging score, good seed attributes, high number of pods per plant, high pod clearance and good plant height can be advanced to the DUS test. Basing on this study genotype BSPS 48A-25-1, BSPS 48A-27-1 and Bulindi 24.1A had the highest yield in kg/ha and are fit for the DUS test and they can be certified and recommended for adoption