Influence of varying soil moisture on growth and yield of Chia (Salvia hispanica l.) in Meru county, Kenya.

Abstract

moisture content at different growth stages is unknown. A field experiment was conducted in March-June and June-October 2021 to determine the influence of different soil moisture regimes on the growth and yield of Chia. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used. Chia plants were subjected to four soil moisture regimes; (i)watering to the seedling stage (seedling), (ii) watering to the vegetative stage (vegetative), and (iii) watering to the flowering stage (flowering) (iv) continuous watering (control). High soil moisture of 89-93 %, significantly increased (p≤0.05) the vegetative growth of Chia plants. Plant height, stem diameter and number of leaves increased by 65-180%, 100-109% and 92-565%, respectively. 20-40% reduction in the available soil water to the plant decreased growth of Chia. Low soil moisture of 30-32 % caused plants to produce 172-220% less seed yield than control plants. Seasonal variation was noted, with increased vegetative growth and seed yield reported in the March-June 2021 season compared to the June-October 2021 season. Decreased vegetative growth and yields was a result from inhibition of cell enlargement or cell division under reduced soil moisture. The study recommends watering to the flowering stage as the best practice for water saving and increasing Chia production in Kenya.