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Journal of Agronomy

Year: 2016 | Volume: 15 | Issue: 4 | Page No.: 173-178
DOI: 10.3923/ja.2016.173.178
Evaluation of Mulberry (Morus spp.) Genotypes for Growth, Leaf Yield and Quality Traits under Southwest Ethiopian Condition
Waktole Sori and Wosene Gebreselassie

Abstract: Background and Objective: Mulberry, Morus spp., a temperate plant well adapted to tropical and subtropical climatic conditions gives continuous yield, the leaf, which is used as a sole nutrient source for mulberry silkworm, Bombyx mori L. The plant is commonly grown in Ethiopia as a fence. The experiment was initiated to evaluate different mulberry genotypes for agronomic and quality attributes as a feed for silk worm. Methodology: Eleven locally available genotypes were collected and evaluated for their growth, leaf yield and attributes under Jimma conditions for 2 years using a randomized complete block design, each replicated thrice. Results: There were statistical differences in growth, leaf yield and quality attributes among the genotypes. Generally, Kumbi and M4 genotypes were superior in their growth, yield and quality attributes. Better establishment, maximum shoot length, number of leaves and branches, leaf area, internodes length, leaf fresh and dry weight, leaf yield per hectare and per plant, total chlorophyll, moisture percentage, total soluble protein, total soluble sugar and NPK contents of the leaf were obtained from Kumbi collection followed by M4 genotype in all cases. Minimum growth, leaf yield and leaf quality attributes were recovered from genotype S13 followed by Saja. Conclusion: Kumbi and M4 genotypes are recommended for mulberry garden establishment as future planting material sources and further multiplied for silkworm rearing purpose in Jimma area. However, the need for further studies was suggested to investigate the effects of the genotypes on the quantity and quality of mulberry silkworm silk cocoon production.

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How to cite this article
Waktole Sori and Wosene Gebreselassie, 2016. Evaluation of Mulberry (Morus spp.) Genotypes for Growth, Leaf Yield and Quality Traits under Southwest Ethiopian Condition. Journal of Agronomy, 15: 173-178.

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