Development of diagnostic and interpretive tools for optimal fertilization of low input and intensive sesame cultivation

Dr. Ran Erel
Start: Mar 2016 –  End: Mar 2019

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the world’s important oil-crops, grown especially in developing countries as a rich source of oil, protein, minerals and vitamins. Sesame is widely grown and expending in China, India, Burma, Sudan and Ethiopia, mostly under dryland cultivation.  In spite of being probably the most ancient oil seed crops, there is very little solid scientific knowledge regarding sesame fertilization and the available literature is often controversial. Furthermore, recent modernization introduced to sesame cultivation rises a new challenges and questions the traditional cultivations techniques. Therefore, there is fundamental need for thorough research to establish sesame fertilization guidelines by creating valid diagnostic tool accompanied by interpretation criteria for the major fertilizers application. Modern cultivation techniques require further study to examine nutrients effect under intensive agro-system. Such research needs to be accompanied by comprehensive understanding of the different nutrient effects on yield and quality parameters of sesame oil and paste in order to establish a cost efficient and balanced fertilization strategy.