Adaptation and Yield Performance of Improved Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) Varieties under Rainfed Conditions in Golohajo, Gursum District, Fafan Zone, Somali Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) is a valuable oilseed crop widely grown across temperate and subtropical regions for its nutritional, industrial, and economic importance. Despite its potential, linseed remains underutilized and under-researched in Ethiopia’s Somali Region, where agro-ecological conditions and rainfed farming systems prevail. To address this gap, a field experiment was conducted during the 2023 main cropping season in the Fafan Zone to assess the adaptability and yield performance of five improved linseed varieties Kuma, Furtu, Walin, Yaadamo, and Bekoju-14, under rainfed conditions. The study employed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Key agronomic parameters, including days to flowering and maturity, plant height, number of capsules per plant, 1000-seed weight, and grain yield, were recorded and analyzed using Gen-Stat software (version 18.2). The results indicated statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) among the varieties for all traits measured, except for plant height. Among the tested varieties, Kuma exhibited the highest performance, recording a grain yield of 2135 kg/ha, the highest number of capsules per plant (54), and the heaviest 1000-seed weight (12.0 g). In contrast, Yaadamo consistently showed the lowest values across most parameters, indicating poor adaptation to the local conditions. The superior performance of Kuma suggests its suitability for cultivation in the rainfed areas of the Fafan Zone. Based on these findings, Kuma is recommended for wider dissemination and production in the region to enhance oilseed crop productivity and diversify local agricultural systems. However, further on-farm and participatory variety selection trials are advised to validate its performance across different microenvironments and to encourage farmer adoption.