Effect of genotypes, planting geometry and methods of establishment on root traits and yield of aerobic rice

The field experiment was conducted at College of Agriculture, Navile Farm, Shivamogga during Kharif 2004 and 2005 to assess the response of genotypes, planting geometry and methods of establishment on root traits and yield of aerobic rice. The study revealed that genotype BI-43 recorded significantly higher root length (25.1cm), root volume (62cc), root number (155.5) and root weight (6.8g) compared to BI-27 and Rasi. Among planting geometry, 30cm x 30cm recorded significantly higher root length (24.4cm), root volume (60.30cc), root number (154.2) and root weight (6.5g) as compared to 45cm x 20cm. Direct seeded recorded significantly higher root length (25.9cm), root volume (67.66cc), root number (161.1) and root weight (7.6g) compared to other methods. Significantly higher dry matter accumulation, number of panicles plant-1, test weight was recorded in BI-43 with 30cm x 30cm spacing under direct seeding. Significantly higher grain yield of 49.0 q ha-1 was recorded in BI-43 and was superior over BI-27 and Rasi. Similarly direct seeding recorded significantly higher grain yield (51.70 q ha-1) as compared to transplanting dapog seedlings (41.1 q ha-1) and transplanting dry nursery seedlings (45.0 q ha-1).