Yield stability, canopy characteristics and seed-borne diseases of spring barley genotypes under organic management

ABSTRACT The objectives of this study were to identify stable and high-yielding genotypes grown in organically managed fields in Latvia and Estonia and to determine their canopy parameters and susceptibility to seed-borne diseases. Field trials with barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) were conducted using 26 varieties and breeding lines including 20 covered and six hulless genotypes at three locations over three growing seasons. Estonian breeding line 4533.4.3.6 yielded significantly above the average (3.99 t ha–1; LSD = 0.230 t ha–1) and showed wide adaptability as indicated by the coefficient of regression (bi = 1.05), relatively small deviation from regression (s2d = 0.04) and one of the lowest value of ecovalence (Wi = 1.41%). There were significant differences between genotypes according to the canopy parameters measured, such as growth type, early vigour, crop ground cover and canopy height. High-yielding barley genotypes were characterized by more planophile growth habit and shorter canopy height, thus providing good ground cover in the early stages of plant growth. Rasa was the only variety found to have no plants infected with loose smut or leaf stripe, in either of the locations.