Yield Components of Fodder Beet (Beta vulgaris var. crassa Mansf.) under the Middle Black Sea Region Conditions

In this study, fodder beet growing possibilities were examined in Middle Black Sea Region. The trials were arranged in randomized complete blocks experimental designs with three replications in 2004 and 2005 growing season. Two fodder beet cultivars (Ecdogelb and Ecdorot) at 5 locations (Bafra, Ladik, Suluova, Gumushacikoy and Osmancik) were grown. The highest root and leaf yields were obtained from Bafra and Osmancik locations (90.6-86.9 and 13.1-12.7 t ha -1 , respectively). While the highest root dry matter content was determined in Ladik, Gumushacikoy and Suluova locations (13.9, 13.6 and 13.3%, respectively), there were not significant differences among locations (10.0-11.0 t ha -1 ) except Ladik in dry matter yield. Ladik and Gumushacikoy locations had the highest sugar content (8.9 and 8.6%, respectively). It was determined that the highest root length was in Bafra location (23.2 cm) and the highest root diameter was in Gumushacikoy location (10.9 cm). Bafra, Suluova, Gumushacikoy and Osmacik locations were determined as suitable locations for fodder beet growing, whereas Ladik location was not suitable location for fodder beet growing because of high altitude, low precipitation and low temperature.