Growth, yield and quality attributes of guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) genotypes grown under different planting dates in a semi-arid region of Pakistan

Guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) is grown in semi-arid regions worldwide as a forage, vegetable, and green manure crop. An experiment was conducted to evaluate growth, forage yield and nutritional quality of guar genotypes grown under different sowing dates. To this end, seven genotypes, viz., Desi Punjab, Farmi Punjab, Desi Sindh, Farmi Sindh, BR-90, BR-2017 and Baluchistan were grown at three sowing times (mid-May, late-May and early-June) during the two years 2020 and 2021. Results showed that maximum leaf area and pods per plant were recorded in genotype Farmi Punjab, while maximum fresh and dry forage yield were archived in genotype ‘BR-90’. Similarly, maximum crude protein in the forage and gum content in mature seeds, were also recorded in BR-90. In addition, mid-May was proved to be the best sowing time for guar genotypes studied in view of achieving maximum morphological traits, fresh and dry forage yield and forage quality, compared to later planting times. Moreover, late sowing caused reduction in yield and other related attributes. It is perceived that synthetic guar variety BR-90 and planting time at mid-May are the best for semi-arid region of Punjab, Pakistan.