Results of the second SADC wheat yield nursery, 1997

Abstract

The SADC Wheat Yield Nursery is intended to evaluate and distribute released and potential wheat cultivars to any research or extension organization in southern Africa. The Nursery is coordinated by the Maize and Wheat Improvement Research Network for SADC (funded by the European Union), The Small Grain Institute, Bethlehem, South Africa, and the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT). The Second Wheat Yield Nursery consisted of 3 germplasm-targeted trials: 1) Evaluation of spring wheat cultivars in irrigation environments. 2) Evaluation of spring wheat cultivars in dryland (rainfed) or reduced (supplemental) irrigation conditions. 3) Evaluation of winter wheat cultivars in dryland environments. Wheat entries for regional performance evaluation were received from 4 national wheat improvement research programs, 2 farmer's seed development cooperatives, and 2 multi-national seed development and production companies. Fifty-three trials were distributed in the SADC region, with a data response from 25 nursery locations received for inclusion in this report. The data response of 40% is lower than the 47% data response of 1996. Overall the data response is unsatisfactory and an appeal is made to cooperating institutions and countries for greater cooperation and commitment to ensure the success of this project. Included in the Report as Appendix A, is a copy of a paper presented at the "10th Regional Wheat Workshop for Eastern, Central and Southern Africa", regarding progress of the SADC Wheat Yield Nursery for the period 1996 - 1997.