Molla Fentie1 2, Nigus Demelash2 and Tsedalu Jemberu
Nine tef varieties including local check were evaluated with the objective of selecting adaptable and best performing tef varieties for moisture stress areas with full participation of farmers. The trial was conducted during 2006 and 2007 cropping seasons at East Belessa woreda of north Gondar Administrative zone of Amhara region. The design was randomized complete block design with three replications. In 2006, the mean yields of all improved varieties were relatively higher than the local check. Varieties Dukem and Dz-01 899 gave the highest grain yield (1143kg/ha) and (1120kg/ha) respectively. Similarly during 2007 cropping season, all improved varieties gave relatively better yield than the local check. Variety Dukem and Gerado gave the highest grain yield (1691kg/ha) and (1578 kg/ha) respectively. The combined analysis of variance over years revealed that varieties were significant difference for days to heading and maturity, plant height, spike length and grain yield. The mean values of grain yield ranged from local check (1080 kg/ha) to Dukem (1417 kg/ha).Varieties Dukem and Tseday had a grain yield advantage of 31%, and 17% over the local check respectively. Tseday matured earlier than among improved varieties and relatively higher grain yield. Farmers�?¢�?�?��?�?� selection criteria were grain yield, maturity date and seed color. Based on their selection criteria, farmers selected Dukem for grain yield, Tseday for its short maturity period and grain yield, and Magna for its very white seeded color. Based on quantitatively measured traits (grain yield and early maturity) and farmers�?¢�?�?��?�?� visual observation, varieties Dukem and Tseday are recommended for production with their full packages in East Belessa and similar Moisture stress agro ecologies.
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