Agronomic performance of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) genotypes under phytostimulant application

Abstract

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the oldest cultivated plant species and become an important alternative to reduce food deficiency in low income populations. Growth regulators influence protein metabolism and may increase the rate of enzyme synthesis involved in the process of seed germination, rooting, flowering, and fruiting of plants. This study aimed to evaluate the agronomic performance of sesame genotypes under the influence of the bioregulator Stimulate^® in two agricultural years in the northeastern region of Brazil. The experiment was carried out in the dry and wet seasons (agricultural years 2014 and 2015, respectively) in the city of Garanhuns in the state of Pernambuco. The experiment was carried out in randomized blocks using four genotypes of sesame (BRS SEDA, CNPA G4, Lineage 1, and Lineage 2), with and without application of the phytostimulant (Stimulate^®). Phytostimulant application did not influence root length. However, it resulted in an increase in the number of fruits per plant, and for genotypes Lineage 1 and Lineage 2, an increase in the content of chlorophyll A and B. Thus, the application of phytostimulant increases the yield of sesame; however, the response to phytostimulant application varies with the genotype and growth conditions.