Effect of Saline Water Irrigation on Growth and Yield in Berseem at Different Growth Stages

Two varieties of berseem (Trifolium alex andrinum L.) were grown at 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 dSm^-1 in the field. Inhibition in extension growth, length, weight (fresh and dry) of root and shoot; dry weight of leaflets progressively and significantly decreased with increasing EC of saline waters. The most deleterious effects were recorded at 24 dSm^-1 at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 DAS. In contrast, most inhibitory effect was shown by BL-10 variety. Dry weight of plant (biomass production) increased at 4 and 8 dSm^-1 but progresively decreased at 12 to 24 dSm^-1. The present findings on forage yield (fresh and dry weight) indicated an increase at 4 and 8 dSm^-1 and significant and progressive decrease was observed at 12, 16, 20 and 24 dSm^-1. The yield significantly increased with successive cuttings. The lesser inhibition was recorded in Wardan cultivar.