The effect of sowing dates, methods and seeding rates on the growth, development and yield of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

Abstract

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is an important oilseed crop cultivated in tropical, subtropical and warm temperate regions. Its productivity is strongly influenced by the conditions under which the crop is established and by the spatial arrangement of plants in the field. This article examines the effects of sowing dates, sowing methods and seeding rates on sesame emergence, vegetative growth, reproductive development and seed yield. The review shows that the optimum sowing period depends on soil temperature, moisture availability, rainfall distribution, cultivar maturity and the environmental conditions prevailing during flowering and seed filling. Sowing too early into cool or dry soil may result in slow and uneven emergence, while delayed sowing can shorten the period available for branching, capsule formation and seed filling. Line sowing and precision drilling generally improve seed placement and facilitate inter-row cultivation, whereas broadcasting may lead to uneven plant distribution. Seed rate determines the initial plant population, but the final stand also depends on seed quality, germination, placement depth and field conditions. Excessive density can intensify competition and reduce branching per plant, while insufficient density may leave unproductive gaps. The article concludes that sowing date, method, row spacing and seed rate should be selected as an integrated system and validated under local agro-climatic conditions. The paper is a review of published evidence and does not report new experimental results.