Evaluation of improved management technologies and linseed (Linum usitatissimum) cultivars in salt-affected soils under rainfed condition

Eight and twelve on farm trials were conducted during the winter (rabi) season of 2001–2002 and 2002–2003, respectively, to evaluate the improved management technologies and promising linseed (Linum usistatissimum L.) cultivars in salt-affected soils under rainfed condition. Improved management technologies consisting of line or seed drill sowing, application of FYM @ 2 tonnes/ha a month before sowing and use of straw mulch after sowing proved superior to traditional practices adopted by the farmers. ‘Padmini’ variety followed by ‘Sweta’ and vice-versa proved superior to ‘Bijuri Local’ with improved management technology in comparison to farmers’ practices. ‘Padmini’ having markedly higher dry matter, number of branches and capsules/plant with dwarf plants utilized soil moisture more efficiently under rainfed condition and showed better tolerance to salts compared to ‘Sweta’ and ‘Bijuri Local’.