Comparative Evaluation of Yield and Agronomic Traits of Four Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Varieties under the Agro-Climatic Conditions of Char Asiab District, Kabul, Afghanistan
Abstract
Winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a staple cereal crops that provides income and support the livelihoods of local farmers of Afghanistan, while also playing a vital role in food security. It is a major source of carbohydrates and proteins for human consumption, while its straw is commonly used as livestock feed in Afghanistan. yet productivity remains below potential due to limited availability of locally adapted improved varieties. This study evaluated the agronomic performance, yield, and yield-related traits of four winter wheat varieties (Sohla 02, Sohla 018, Chont, and local variety Riza Gul) under irrigated conditions in Char Asiab District, Kabul, during the 2024–2025 growing season. Using a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications, the data was analyzed with Statistical Tools for Agricultural Research (STAR 2.0.1) software. significant varietal differences were observed for most traits. Result showed that Sohla 018 produced the highest grain yield (4,866.67 kg ha⁻¹), 1000-grain weight (44.36 g), and grains per spike (51.11). While Sohla 02 showed superior vegetative growth, this did not translate to higher yield. The findings identify Sohla 018 as the most suitable variety for cultivation in Char Asiab District, with potential to improve wheat productivity and contribute to food security in Afghanistan.