Evaluation of comparative productivity of the romanian pea variety 'nicoleta' under conventional and no-till systems in the arid region of dobrogea

This study evaluated the agronomic performance of the Romanian pea variety “Nicoleta” (Pisum sativum L.) under two soil tillage systems: conventional and no-till during 2021-2024, in the pedoclimatic conditions of Săcele, Constanța County. The effects of tillage on vegetative growth, reproductive traits, yield, and their relationships with climatic factors were analyzed. Conventional tillage resulted in taller plants, slightly more pods per plant, and a higher thousand seed weight (TSW), and these differences were statistically significant according to ANOVA. Although conventional tillage produced higher yields, the no-till system ensured stable and competitive productivity, particularly in low-rainfall years, due to controlled irrigation. Regression analyses showed a strong positive correlation between TSW and yield, and a moderate relationship between pods per plant and productivity. Rainfall had limited influence because irrigation compensated for water deficits. Overall, the “Nicoleta” variety proved adaptable and productive, and the no-till system represents a viable, sustainable option for modern, resource-efficient agriculture. Bangladesh J. Bot. 55(1): 13-19, 2026 (March)