Growth and yield parameters of summer sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) as influenced by drip irrigation levels and water soluble fertilizer

A field study was carried out during the summer seasons of 2023 and 2024 at the Instructional Farm, Junagadh Agricultural University to evaluate the response of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) to different drip irrigation levels and doses of water soluble fertilizers (WSF). The experiment was carried out in a split-plot design with four irrigation levels (0.6 PEF, 0.8 PEF, 1.0 PEF, and surface irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio) and three fertigation levels (100%, 80% and 60% RDF through WSF). The results demonstrated that irrigation at 1.0 PEF significantly enhanced plant height, branches/plant, dry matter buildup, yield characteristics, and yields of seeds and stalks. Fertigation with 100% RDF recorded the maximum growth and yield. The interaction of 1.0 PEF × 100% RDF (WSF) produced maximum yield. However, irrigation at 0.8 PEF combined with 80% RDF resulted in the highest water use efficiency (WUE) and economic returns. The study concludes that for optimum productivity and profitability in summer sesame, drip irrigation at 0.8 PEF along with 80% RDF through WSF is ideal.