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Crop Science Society of Nigeria

(CSSN)

1st National Annual Conference September 15 – 19, 2013

THEME

The Role of Crop Science in the Agricultural Transformation Agenda

BOOK OF ABSTRACTS

University of Nigeria, Nsukka Nigeria

1

Section I

Agronomy

2

Effect of Poultry Dropping as Soil Amendment on Okra (Abelmoschus

esculentus L.) in Southern Guinea Savannah of Nigeria

Abdulmaliq, S.Y., 1 Abayomi, Y. A.2 and Aduloju, M. O3 1Department of Crop Production, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University,

Lapai, Niger State 2Department of Crop Production, University of Ilorin, Nigeria

3Department of Crop Science, Landmark University, Omuaran, Kwara State

Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract Poultry manure has long been recognized as the most desirable organic soil amendment. It improves soil fertility by adding plant essential nutrients and soil organic matter. This study investigated the effect of cured poultry manure on the soil fertility improvement, growth and yield of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus. L.). Field experiments were carried out at the University of Ilorin, Teaching and Research farm in 2010 and 2011 cropping seasons. The experiment consisted of ten treatments: poultry droppings cured for 3, 6 and 9 weeks (P3, P6 and P9), recommended rate of inorganic fertilizer (NPK) and no amendment (NA), using two varieties (LD 88-1 and NHAe 47-4) of okra. The experiment was laid out as split-plot in randomized complete blocks replicated four times. The result of pre-planting soil analysis of the experimental site in the two cropping seasons showed low inherent fertility of the soil. However, the post planting soil analysis showed an improvement in soil pH, total nitrogen, total phosphorus as well as total exchangeable cations. Okra growth and yield were significantly (P<0.05) influenced by the cured poultry manure. The P3 and P6, produced taller plants with greater number of leaves, wider leaf area, more grooves and pods, longer pod length/plant, and higher fruit yield comparable to the synthetic fertilizer (NPK) in the two cropping seasons.

Keywords: Soil amendment, Poultry droppings, Inorganic fertilizer, Okro.

3

Effects of Complementary Use of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on

Yield of Upland Rice (Oryza sativa L.) on an ultisol

1O. S. Aderi*, 1N. U. Ndaeyo, 1N. U. A. Idem, 2G. A. Iwoh and 1A. O. Ikeh

1Department of Crop Science, University of Uyo, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State,

Nigeria. 2Department of Crop Science, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River

State, Nigeria.

*Corresponding Author’s E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted in 2009 and 2010 at the University of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm, Use Offot, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State to investigate the effect of complementary use of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the components of yield of upland rice. Treatments consisted of six fertilizer complements and five cultivars of rice in a factorial combination to obtain thirty treatment combinations laid on a randomized complete block and replicated three times. The results showed that 3.0 t/ha organic + 200kg/ha inorganic complement produced the highest number of effective panicles per m2 and the highest number of spikelets per panicle in both years, while the control produced the least. However, the percentage of filled spikelets and 1,000 seed mass increased significantly (p≤0.05) with increase in inorganic fertilization, while grain yield increased significantly with the application of 3.0 t/ha organic + 200kg/ha inorganic complement. Otokongtian produced the highest significant number of effective panicles per m2 while FAROs 43 and 56 produced the highest number of spikelets per panicle and percentage of filled spikelets per panicle. FARO 46 produced the highest 1,000 seed mass while FARO 43 produced the highest grain yield. The interaction effects showed that the performance of the cultivars on most parameters improved significantly (p≤0.05) with combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizer while inorganic fertilization improved 1,000 rice seed mass. It was concluded that complementary application of organic and inorganic fertilizers increased the productivity of upland rice on an ultisol. Keywords: Organic and inorganic fertilizers, rice cultivars, grain yield.

4

Response of Mucuna to Lime and Sowing Date on an Acid soil of

Southeastern Nigeria

N.C. Adikuru*, C.P Nwaorisa and I.I Ibeawuchi

Department of Crop Science and Technology

Federal University of Technology P.M.B 1526 Owerri Imo State, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT

A field experiment was carried out to investigate the effects of lime and sowing date on mucuna biomass production. Ten (10) treatment combinations consisting of 5 rates of lime (0,1,2,3 and 4 tons/ha) and 2 sowing dates (May 14 and September 19) were replicated 3 times using a factorial in randomized complete block design (RCBD). Parameters measured at 4,8 and 12 weeks after planting (WAP) included petiole length, vine length, vine girth, number of leaves and total (aboveground) dry matter. Lime application significantly increased petiole length, vine length and total dry matter at 4, 8 and 12 WAP; number of leaves at 8 and 12WAP but did not affect vine girth. Thus acidity significantly reduced mucuna biomass production by reducing petiole length, vine length, total dry matter and number of leaves by as much as 41.5, 61.9, 83.6 and 74.3% respectively. Application of lime at 4 tons/ha produced the best performance. Sowing date had significant effects on all the parameters with early season planting generally performing better than the late season planting. Therefore when mucuna is sown as an intercrop in the early season it may face the challenge of soil acidity and when it is sown as a fallow crop in the late season it may face the challenge of moisture stress. Mucuna production can therefore be improved through application of soil amendments such as lime and moisture conservation practices.

Keywords: Acidity, biomass, lime, mucuna, sowing date

5

Responses of Mucuna flagellipes (Vogel ex Hook) to plant population in

Obubra, Cross River State

*Agba, O.A., Mbah, B. N. and Asiegbu, J. E.

Department of Crop Science, University of Nigerian Nsukka, Enugu State. *Corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

The responses of Mucuna flagellipes (Vogel ex Hook) to plant population was conducted for two cropping seasons (2008 and 2009) in the Teaching and Research farm, Department of Agronomy, Cross River University of Technology Obubra, Cross River State. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design (RC BD). Treatments comprised four Mucuna flagellipes plant populations: 33,333, 16,666, 10,000 and 8,333 Mucuna flagellipes plants/ha laid out in RCBD with three replications. Data collected on agronomic and yield parameters were statistically analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) procedure. Close spacing with high plant population significantly (p<0.05) reduced number of leaf blades, branches, and dry matter of plant fractions per plant. The longest vine length of 572.3 and 578.3cm and leaf area index of 4.35 and 4.43 were produced in plant population of 33,333 plants/ha and were significantly higher than values obtained from other lower populations in 2008 and 2009 cropping seasons respectively. Pod and seed yield per plant were higher in plots with the least plant population of 8,333 plants/ha as compared with other higher plant population of 33,333 and 16,666 plants/ha. The highest Mucuna flagellipes seed yield of 2.85 and 2.91 tons/ha were produced from plots with 33,333 plants/ha in 2008 and 2009 cropping seasons. While plots of 8,333 plants/ha gave the lowest seed yield of 1.93 and 1.95 ton/ha during the two seasons.

6

Effect of Varieties and Organic Manure on the Vegetative Growth and

Seed Yield of Tomato (Lycopersicon lycopersicum Mill.)

1*Ahmed, M., 2Tswanya, M. N., 1Nda S. L and 2Yisa, P. Z. 1Department of Agricultural Technology, Federal College of Freshwater

Fisheries Technology, New-Bussa. Niger State. 2Department of Agricultural Technology, College of Agriculture, Mokwa.

Niger State.

*Corresponding Author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

The experiment was aimed to evaluate the effect of organic manure (rice husk, melon shell and groundnut shell) on the vegetative growth and seed yield of two tomato varieties (UC82B and Rio-grande), this research was conducted during the 2011 and 2012 cropping season, at Niger State College of Agriculture. Mokwa, it lies between latitude 090 181N and longitude 050 41E. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) which consisted of eight treatments and replicated three times. The following parameters were taken, recorded and analyzed: Plant height, stand count, number of leaves, number of fruit, fruit weight, seed yield and seed weight. The result indicated that varieties show no significant difference (p>0.05) on the plant height, at 3 and 6 WAP, stand count and fruit weight. Varieties show significant difference (p<0.05) on the leaf area. UC82B produced more number of fruits than Rio-grande. The seed yield mean value obtained from UC82B was significantly higher than the mean value obtained from Rio-grande. The seed weight of UC82B was heavier than the seed weight of Rio-grande. Organic manure show significant difference (p<0.05) on the Stand count, fruit weight, seed yield and seed weight. The mean value obtained from groundnut shell were significantly (p<0.05) higher than the mean value of rice husk and melon shell. There was no significant (p>0.05) difference between the mean values of rice husk and melon shell. UC82B and groundnut shell gave the best seed yield.

Keywords: Rice husk, melon shell, groundnut shell, UC82B and Rio-grande.

7

SEASONAL EVALUATION OF THE ADVANCED GENERATIONS

OF INTERSPECIFIC HYBRIDS OF TWO SOLANUM SPECIES IN

NSUKKA AGRO-ECOLOGY OF SOUTHEASTERN NIGERIA *Amuji, C.F1, Uguru, M.I.1 and Ogbonna, P.E.1

1Department of Crop Science University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria *Corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Four experiments were carried out in the early and late planting seasons of 2011 and 2012 to assess the growth, yield and disease tolerance of advanced generations of interspecific hybrids of tomatoes and their parents. The hybrids S2S, S3S, S4S and S1E, the parents Roma vf, Tropica and the wild tomato relative, Solanum pimpinellifolium were evaluated in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications. The hybrids flowered and fruited earlier than the cultivated parents in both the early and late planting seasons. The hybrids had higher percentage survival (54% to 86%) than the cultivated parents (14% to 28%). The cultivated parents had the highest disease severity and percentage fruit rot in the two seasons. The hybrids had higher number of branches/plant, trusses/plant, flowers/plant and fruits/truss than the cultivated parents. The hybrids also produced medium sized fruits with mean fruit weight ranging from 7g to 21g per fruit. The fruit yield/hectare correlated positively with percentage survival of the plants at 110 days after planting. The hybrid, S1E gave the most stable fruit yield in the both seasons of evaluation. Both the wild and the selected hybrids had comparable fruit yield values in the early planting seasons of 2011and 2012. But in the late planting season, the selected hybrids produced higher fruit yield than all the parents in the two years. Keywords: fruit yield, percentage survival, early and late planting.

8

EFFICACY OF ORGANIC MANURE FORMS ON PEPPER

PERFORMANCE

Effa, E.B., Uko, E. A. and Okim, R.S.

Department of Crop Science, University of Calabar, PMB 1115, Calabar

Corresponding author: [email protected]; [email protected]

ABSTRACT

The efficacy of organic manure forms on pepper performance was tested during 2012 planting season at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Calabar, using a 2 x 4 factorial combination in Randomised Complete Block Design of three replications. The treatments consisted of four manure forms (goat manure pellets, goat manure dust, poultry manure and the control) and two chilli pepper species (cayenne and frutescence). Goat manure dust and poultry manure at 10 t.ha-1 significantly (p<0.05) increased canopy diameter, number of flowers per plant at 11weeks after planting and the fresh fruit yield (t.ha-1). The interaction between cayenne and poultry manure resulted in significantly (p<0.05) higher fresh fruit yield (10.23 t.ha-1), about 535.60% more than the control. This was closely followed by the interaction between goat manure dust x frutescence at the rate of 10 t.ha-1. The order of effectiveness was poultry manure > goat manure dust > goat manure pellets > control.

Keywords: Animal manure, Chilli pepper, Fruit yield.

9

ASPECTS OF AGRONOMIC CHARACTERIZATION OF EARLY

GROWTH OF TURMERIC GERMPLASM

*Ekwere, E.O., Baiyeri, K.P. and Ogbonna, P.E.

Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT A research was carried out at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, experimental station, to determine the sprouting pattern and rooting traits of 47 turmeric accessions raised in a nursery. Forty-five of the accessions (mother rhizome) were sourced from National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, and 2 accessions (primary rhizome) were collected from Ibadan (homestead garden). Each accession was raised using a sawdust medium in a polythene bag, with 5 plants per replication and repeated four times in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). All the growth traits were significantly different at 5% level of probability. There were positive significant correlations among the root traits and plant height (cm) (r= 0.781 – 0.854), which showed complementary attributes among those characters. About 10% of the accessions were early in emergence, 87% had late sprouting duration and 30% of the accessions recorded a low rate of emergence. About 17% of the accessions had several leaves and 13% produced dense root hair, while most accessions (60.0%) produced few leaves and scanty root hairs (70%). Coefficient velocity of emergence (%), had higher correlation values with plant height (cm) (r = 0.767), number of leave plant-1 (r = 0.623) and all the root traits (r = 0.744 – 0. 779). The Principal Components Analysis (PCA) revealed that days to first and 50% sprouting, coefficient velocity of emergence (%), plant height (cm), root length (cm), number of root rhizome-1 and root hair traits explained about 60.11% of the total variation that existed about 12.56% of the total variation, while root position, alone, accounted for 7.45% of existing variability. PCA suggested that these traits were the most responsive and are thus, most discriminative for characterizing turmeric.

Keywords: Accessions, turmeric, sprout, rhizome.

10

Evaluation of Agronomic Performance of Nsukka Yellow Pepper

[Capsicum annuum L.] under Different Rates of Boiler Ash

Application in Iwollo, Enugu State, Nigeria

*Ezema R.A., Ibudialo A.N, Omeje T.E. and Chienyinam G.I.

Department of Agronomy, Enugu State College of Agriculture and Agro-entrepneurship, Iwollo, Enugu State Nigeria.

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Due to the drastic rise of prices for commercial fertilizer, many small-scale farmers have turned to other sources of plant nutrients for their crops. It is not clear what effect a power plant residue-boiler ash might have on the growth and yield of Nsukka Yellow Pepper in Iwollo, Enugu State, Nigeria. Therefore, a field study was conducted at the Teaching and Research farm of the Enugu State College of Agriculture and Agro-entrepreneurship, Iwollo, during 2012 cropping season to determine the agronomic performance of Nsukka Yellow pepper under different rates of boiler ash. Five rates of boiler ash treatments consisting of 0, 3, 10, 25 and 50tha-1 were used in the study. The treatments were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Boiler ash application significantly improved the number of branches, days to 50% flowering, yield components and fruit yield. It did not influence plant height, biomass and weed infestation. The use of 25tha-1 boiler ash gave the highest number of branches, fruit yield, and fruit number/plant and fruit volume. Boiler ash application reduced the number of days to flowering linearly with increase in application rate. The reduction was 12days relative to the control. There were also positive correlations among some of the evaluated traits. It is recommended that application of boiler ash at 25tha-1 will result in enhanced yield of Nsukka Yellow pepper in areas with similar condition.

Keywords: Nsukka Yellow Pepper, power plant residue, Boiler ash, Agronomic performance, Fruit yield.

11

EFFECT OF FERTILIZER TYPE ON TOMATO UPTAKE OF

NITROGEN, PHOSPHURUS AND POTASSIUM

*Gudugi, I. A. S, 1Adeboye, M.K.A; 1Odofin, A. J. and 2Oladiran, J. A.

1Department of Soil Science, Federal University of Technology, Minna. 2Department of Crop Production, Federal University of Technology, Minna,

Niger State.

*Corresponding address: [email protected] ABSTRACT

A study was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of Federal University of Technology, Minna during the dry seasons of 2009/2010 and 2010/2011, to investigate the effects of poultry and inorganic fertilizer on the uptake of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) by four varieties of tomato (Lycopersicum esculentus Mill) in the Southern Guinea savanna of Nigeria. It was a factorial experiment made up of four varieties of tomato viz; Roam VF, Ibadan local, Ife 1 and UC82B and two types of fertilizer viz; inorganic fertilizer and poultry manure, both applied separately at the rate of 100:50:50 Kg N, P2O5, K2O ha-1, mixed poultry manure and inorganic fertilizer each applied at the rate of 50:25:25 kg N, P2O5, K2O ha-1 and a control (no fertilizer). The N, P and K contents of the leaf plus stem and fruits of the plant were determined at physiological maturity. The N, P and K concentration in both stem plus leaf and fruits were all significantly (P ≤ 0.05) affected by fertilization and tomato variety. Tomato without any fertilization had lowest uptake of NPK which was significantly different from those of the fertilized plants. The mixture of poultry manure and inorganic fertilizer produced fruits with the highest concentration of N, 2.93 g kg-1 in 2010 while inorganic fertilizer gave the highest in 2011 ( 0.41 g kg-1). The interaction of fertilization and tomato varieties on the uptake of the three nutrient was not significant (P > 0.05). Fertilization with combined organic and inorganic fertilizer seems to enhance the nutritional quality of tomato fruits.

12

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF YIELDS OF FOUR VARIETIES

OF WATERMELON (Citrullus lanatus) IN ENUGU, SOUTH

EASTERN NIGERIA

IBUDIALO, A. N., EZEMA, R. A., NZEKWE, C. A., UGWU, I. E. and EDU, C. H.

Enugu State College of Agriculture and Agro- Entrepreneurship, Iwollo, Ezeagu L.G.A of Enugu State.

Corresponding author:[email protected]

ABSTRACT

The study was primarily aimed at determining the yield of four varieties of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) in Iwollo, South Eastern Nigeria. The experiment was carried out at the Research Farm Site of Enugu State College of Agriculture and Agro- Entrepreneurship, Iwollo. The area was characterized by humid tropical climate with both rainy season and dry season. In the experiment, Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used with four replications and four treatments including Sugar Baby, Crimson Sweet, Kolak and F1 Kolos. Data were collected on the following parameters: percentage emergence at 14DAP (%), vine length at 30 and 60 DAP (cm), leaf area index (LAI) at 30 and 60 DAP, days to 50% flowering and yield indices which included number of fruits per plant and weight of fruits per plant (kg/plot). There were significant differences in most of the parameters analyzed at 5% probability level, but parameters like percentage emergence and leaf area index (LAI) had no significant difference. The results showed significant (p < 0.05) variability on growth characteristics and yield indices among the four watermelon varieties studied, and Sugar Baby was the best performed in the study area.

13

EFFECT OF DIFFERENT PLANTING SPACING ON THE

GROWTH AND YIELD OF SOYABEANS (Glycine max) IN ENUGU

SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA

*IBUDIALO, A.N., EZEMA, R.A., and UGWU, I.E. Department of Agronomy, Enugu State College of Agriculture and Agro-

Entrepreneurship, Iwollo, Ezeagu L.G.A. of Enugu State.

*Corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Soybeans are a leguminous crop plant that is capable of fixing nitrogen to the soil. The study was primarily aimed at determining the best spacing on the growth and yield of soybeans (Glucine max) in Iwollo Oghe, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State. The research experiment was carried out at the research farm site of Enugu State College of Agriculture. In the experiment, Randomize Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used with four replications and treatment which are different spacing on the growth and yield indices of soybeans. The different planting spacing determined the plant density in each plot and the rate of nitrogen fixation. The treatments were: T1= 0.7mx0.3m, T2=0.8mx0.4m, T3=0.6mx0.2m and T4=0.9mx0.5m. Data was collected on the following parameters: Percentage Emergence at 14DAP with mean value of 77.25, 72.50, 58.19, and 90.02% respectively which was significantly higher at 5% level of probability. Leaf Area Index at 30 and 60DAP had no significant difference, F-LSD (P= 0.05). Other parameters such as Days to 50% flowering, Plant height (cm) at 30 and 60DAP, Grain wet weight (kg/plot) has no significant difference while the Dry Matter Yield (DMY) in kg/plot was significantly higher among the treatments used. Soil analysis was carried out both the pre-planting and post planting analysis to be able to determine the fixation rates after one planting season. Keywords: planting spacing, fixation, yield indices, dry matter yield.

14

EFFECT OF TIME OF PLANTING ON THE GROWTH AND YIELD

OF WATERMELON (Citrullus lanatus) IN ENUGU, SOUTH

EASTERN, NIGERIA

*1IBUDIALO, A. N, 1EZEMA RAY, and 2NZEKWE C. A.

1 Department of Agronomy, Enugu State College of Agriculture and Agro-Entrepreneurship, Iwollo, Enugu State.

2Department of Environmental Management and Control, University of Nigeria Enugu Campus, Enugu State.


ABSTRACT

This study was primarily aimed at determining the best time of planting on the growth and yield of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) in Nkanu, Enugu State. The research was carried out in the experimental farm of the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resource Management, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu State. The area was characterized by humid tropical climate with wet season between April to October and dry season between November to March. In the experiment, Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used with five replications and five treatments which comprised of time of planting in April (A), May (M), June (J), July (Ju) and August (Au) at 30 days intervals. Data was collected on the following parameters with their mean values at a significant level, F- LSD (P= 0.05). In agronomic parameters, all show significant differences except Days to 50% flowering, Percentage (%) Emergence at 14 DAP, gave a significant difference among the treatment used A=100, M= 80, J= 76, Ju= 64, and Au= 100, Leaf Area Index (LAI) at 30 and 60 DAP show significant difference with mean values A=21, M= 17, J= 16, Ju= 16, Au= 20, Vine Length (cm) at 30 and 60 DAP also show significant difference. In the yield indices of watermelon (Number and Weight of fruits (kg/plot), April and August planting gave a higher significant difference (p= 0.05) in the treatment used than May, June and July treatment. There was no fruiting in June and July treatment. Some climatic and environmental factors were taken into considerations such as Rainfall, Temperature, pests and diseases. May, June and July treatment have a higher amount of rainfall, low temperature and more pests and disease infestation than April and August treatment.

Keywords: watermelon, time of planting, climate, environment, temperature, rainfall.

15

Effect of Spacing on Growth and Yield Components of Three Varieties

of Maize (Zea mays L) in Uyo, Southeastern Nigeria

Idem, N. U. A., Ikeh, A. O. and Jackson, I. E.

Department of Crop Science, University of Uyo, Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT

A field experiment was conducted at the university of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm, to evaluate the effect of spacing on growth and yield components of three varieties of maize. The factorial experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Three maize varieties (Suwan -1-S R, Oba super 2, and Oba 98 quality protein maize) and three crop spacing (75cm x 25cm, 75cm x 45cm and 75cm x 65cm) were used. The planting was done in April, 2009 and 2010. Eleven parameters of the maize plant were studied. The data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and means that showed significant difference were separated using least significant difference at P<0.05. The result indicated that variety and spacing significantly (P<0.05) affected growth and some yield parameters (number of leaves per plant, plant height, stem thickness, leaf area, number of cob per plot, length of cobs, diameter of cobs and weight of the seed in tones/ha) in both cropping seasons. The highest yield of maize (2.98 tonnes/ha) was obtained from Suwan-1-SR in 2009 and 3.04 tonnes/ha 2010, respectively at the optimal spacing of 75cm x 25cm. Keywords: Maize, Growth, Yield and Spacing.

16

Effect of Combined Doses of Composted Municipal Waste and Urea

Fertilizer on fruit Yield of Chili Pepper (Capsicum fruescens) in Uyo,

Southeastern Nigeria

1Ikeh, A. O., 2Essien, R. A., 1Udoh, E. I. and 2Akpan, E. A.

1Department of Crop Science, University of Uyo

2Department of Crop Science and Horticulture Akwa Ibom State University, Obio Akpa Campus.

Correspondence author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

A study was conducted at the experimental farm of the Department of Crop Science, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, between July and November of 2011 and 2012 cropping seasons to determine the effect of factorial combination of municipal waste and Urea fertilizer on the growth and yield of chilli pepper. Four rates of composted municipal refuse (0, 5, 10 and 15 ton/ha) and three rates of urea fertilizer (0, 50, and 100 kg/ha) were tested in a randomized complete block design experiment. The result revealed that combined application of 10 t.ha -1 of municipal refuse and 100 kg/ha of urea fertilizer produced highest fruit yield of 12.30 and 13.16 t.ha-1 in 2011 and 2012, respectively. The plot that received 15 t.ha-1of market refuse alone, produced 9.75 and 10.03 t.ha-1 of fresh fruits in 2011 and 2012, respectively, while the control treatment had the least fruit yield of 3.11 and 3.82 t.ha-1 in both years. The study suggested combined application of 10 t.ha-1 composted municipal waste and 50 kg.ha-1 of urea for pepper production in the study area. Keywords: Pepper, growth, yield and fertilizer.

17

Response of Okra (Abelmoschus esculenta (L) Moench) cultivars to

market refuse manure and NKP fertilizer in wetland dry season

farming

Ikeh, A. O.1, Ndaeyo, N. U., AKpan, E. A; Uko, I. U3, Bassey, D. E.4

1Department of Crop Science, University of Uyo

2Department of Crop Science and Horticulture Akwa Ibom State University, Obio Akpa Campus.

3Department of Biology, Akwa Ibom State College of Art and Science Nung Ukim Ikono.

4Department of Soil Science, Akwa Ibom State University, Obio Akpa Campus.


Abstract

A field study was carried out in Uyo, southeastern Nigeria, to assess the effect of market refuse manure rates and NPK fertilizer on the growth and yield of three Okra cultivars. The experiment was laid out as split plot in randomized complete blocks of three replicates. The main treatments comprised of two rates of market refuse manure (10 and 20 t.ha-1), 300 kg/ha NPK fertilizer, and no soil amendment as the control. The sub-treatments were three Okra cultivars; Lady’s finger, TAE 38 and Asakawum (a popular local Okro cultivar in Uyo). The results of the study indicated significant (P<0.05) difference among the fertilizer treatments and the Okra cultivars. Plants that received 20 and 10 t.ha-1 of market refuse manure performed better in both growth and yield parameters assessed. The application of 20 t.ha-1 of market refuse manure produced 9.73 and 9.68 t.ha-1 fresh Okro yield in 2011 and 2012, respectively; while the control treatment produced 4.35 and 400 t.ha-1, respectively. The application of 20 t.ha-1 out yielded the other treatments by 17-55% and 13-59% in 2011 and 2012, respectively. Among the Okra cultivars, Lady’s finger performed best in fresh pod yield irrespective of fertilizer treatment, followed by TAE 38; while the least yield in both cropping seasons was obtained from the local variety Asakawum. Keywords: Okra, market refuse, NKP fertilizer, growth and fruit yield.

18

Comparative evaluation of bulbils and sett weight on growth pattern

and tuber yield of water yam (Dioscorea alata L.) in the humid Tropics

of southeastern Nigeria

*Ikeh, A. O., Ndaeyo, N. U. and Aderi, O. S.

Department of Crop Science, University of Uyo, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT

An experiment was conducted in 2009 and 2010 planting seasons to compare two planting materials (bulbils and tuber setts) and their weights (25, 35 and 50 g) on growth pattern and yield of water yam genotype. The two year experiment was carried out in University of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Southeastern Nigeria. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design, with three replications in a split plot arrangement. The planting materials (bulbils and setts) were the main plot treatments, while their weights constituted the sub-treatments. The result of the study showed that the sprouting percentage of water yam was significant (P<0.05) affected by the propagule used with bulbils producing the highest sprouting percentage of 98.00% and 100% in 2009 and 2010, respectively, compare to 65% and 75% recorded in the tuber setts. The bulbils also produced significantly (P<0.05) higher internodes lengths, number of branches, leaves per plant and bulbils per plant; while the tuber sett produced wider leaf area, and more tubers per plant. The result showed no significant difference in the total tuber yields in both cropping seasons. The study also showed a significant (P<0.05) increase in tuber sett or bulbils weight with the growth of water yam. Keywords: Water yam, bulbils, setts, growth and yield.

19

Compatibility of Egg Plant and Pepper under Egusi Melon (Colocynthis

citrullus) Based Intercrop in Southeastern Nigeria

A. O. *Ikeh1, N. U, Ndaeyo1, E. I. Udoh1, Akpan, E. A2., Okokon N. E1.

1Department of Crop Science, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

2Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Akwa Ibom State University, Obio Akpa Campus


ABSTRACT

A study was conducted in 2010 and 2011 at Uyo, Southeastern Nigeria to assess the yield and compatibility of eggplant and pepper under egusi melon based intercrop. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design, with three replicates. The treatments were sole melon, sole pepper, sole eggplant, melon + pepper, and melon + eggplant intercrop. Results of growth and yield parameters showed no significant difference (p<0.05) between egusi-melon planted sole cropped and intercropped-with pepper and eggplant except on leaf area. There were significant (p<0.05) differences in pod yields with sole melon producing 11.55 and 12.25 t/ha in 2010 and 2011, respectively. Melon + pepper intercrop produced 10.98 and 11.75 t/ha; while melon + eggplant produced 10.98 and 10.06 t/ha in 2010 and 2011 cropping seasons, respectively. No significant difference was recorded on egusi seed yield. Sole melon produced 5.68 and 5.99t/ha in 2010 and 2011, respectively; whereas melon + pepper intercrop produced 4.81 and 5.70t/ha. The sole melon out yielded other cropping systems by 5-15% and 15-26% pod yields, and 4-18% and 5-23% seed yield in 2010 and 2011, respectively. Keywords: Cropping system, egusi melon, eggplant.

20

EVALUATION OF SOME SELECTED SESAME (Sesamum indicum

L.) VARIETIES IN MAKURDI, BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

1*Iorlamen,T., 2Akombo, R.A. and 1Idoko, S.E.

1Department of Crop Production, University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria.

2Department of Crop Production Technology, Akperan Orshi College of Yandev, Benue State, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT

Despite the potential for Sesame production its level of production is at low level and the yield per hectare has continuously remains very low. This situation could be attributed to poor genetic potentials of the varieties used. A field experiment was conducted during the 2011 cropping season at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi to assess the performance of some sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) varieties in Makurdi, Nigeria with the aim of identifying the best variety. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) replicated four times. Treatments include; E-8, ICEASE0001, ICEASE 0013, ICEASE 0018 and ICEASE0020. All sesame seeds were obtained from West African Seed Alliance, Abuja except E-8 which was obtained at the University of Agriculture, Makurdi Teaching and Research Farm. Planting was done on 15th August, 2011 for all the varieties. Plants were thinned three weeks after planting to give a population of 133,333 stands per hectare. All varieties received N: P: K 15: 15: 15 fertilizer at the rate of 400kg /ha. Harvesting was done when about 80 - 90% of the capsule turned yellow. The data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and means were separated using Fisher Least Significant Difference test (P > 0.05). The result shows that the highest seed yield (0.56t/ha) was obtained at ICEASE 0013 followed by the ICEASE 0001 (0.49t/ha) while the least was obtained from ICEASE 0018 (0.300t/ha). Hence, for seed production in sesame ICEASE 0013 would be recommended.

Keywords: Sesame, varietal trial, growth and grain yield.

21

GROWTH AND YIELD RESPONSE OF SESAME (Sesamum indicum

L.) TO FOLIAR AND SOIL APPLIED FERTILIZERS IN

MAKURDI, BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

1*Iorlamen,T. , 1Ayam, F. M and 2Akombo, R. A.

1Department of crop Production, University of Agriculture, Makurdi,Benue State, Nigeria

2Department of Crop Production Technology, Akperan Orshi College of Agriculture, Yandev, Benue State, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT

For optimum plant growth, nutrients must be available in sufficient and balanced quantities. Therefore, fertilizers are designed to supplement the nutrients already present in the soil. The use of different forms of chemical fertilizer and organic fertilizer has its advantages and disadvantages in the context of nutrient supply, crop growth and environmental quality. The experiment was conducted during the 2011 cropping season at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi to assess the response of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) to foliar and soil applied fertilizers. The experimental design was split plot (2x4) laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and replicated three times. Before the commencement of the experiments, soil samples were collected for analysis. Treatments combinations were made up of two sesame varieties (E8 and SN603) as main plots while NPK 15:15:15, compost plus, foliar and control as sub-plots. Data was collected on days to 50% flowering, numbers of seeds per capsule, 1000 seed weight (g), seed yield (t/ha), etc. Data collected were analyzed using Genstat Release 7.2 DE (LAT. 2007). Result of the soil analysis showed that, nutrient status of the soil was low for sesame production. The result of seed yield (kg/ha) showed significant difference among the fertilizer types. The highest seed yield was obtained from inorganic fertilizer (359.0kg/ha) followed by organic compost plus (252.0kg/ha) and the least was from foliar fertilizer (194.0kg/ha). At interactions, seed yield (kg/ha) showed significant difference. The highest seed yield was obtained from E8 and inorganic fertilizer at interaction (396/kg/ha) and least was at SN603 and foliar fertilizer and SN 603 and control interactions (176kg/ha). Therefore, application of E8 and NPK 15:15:15 in combination is highly recommended for high yield of sesame seeds. Keywords: Growth, yield, sesame, foliar fertilizer, soil amendments.

22

Response of two sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) varieties to

varying rates of organic manure sources under rainfed conditions in an

ultisol

*Muoneke, C.O., Mbah, E .U. and Udom E. F.

Department of Agronomy, College of Crops and Soil Sciences, Michael

Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State.

*Corresponding author: [email protected], [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Rainfed field experiments were conducted at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike in 2006 and 2007 cropping seasons to investigate the response of two sweet potato varieties (Ex-Igbariam and TIS-87/0087) to different sources (pig, poultry and goat) and rates (0, 10, 20 and 30 t/ha) of organic manure. The experiments were laid out in a 2 x 3 x 4 factorial in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. In both years, poultry manure sustained plants with the highest number of leaves, vine length, and greater number of branches per plant than the other manure sources. Similarly, Poultry manure source was significantly (P<0.05) high for total number of tubers per plant and fresh tuber yield of sweet potato in the two cropping seasons. For the three manure sources, shoot growth and tuber yield of sweet potato significantly (P<0.05) increased with increasing rate in both years, but declined after 20 t/ha. Assessment of the interactions showed that it was more productive to grow TIS-87/0087 with poultry manure at 20 t/ha compared to Ex-Igbariam. The TIS-87/0087 variety gave higher fresh tuber yield than Ex-Igbariam in both cropping seasons. For optimum growth and yield of sweet potato at Umudike, Nigeria, poultry manure applied at 20 t/ha was recommended. Keywords: Sweet potatoes, animal manures, application rate, tuber yield.

23

EFFECT OF SETT WEIGHT ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF SOME

COCOYAM SPECIES IN UYO, SOUTHEASTERN NIGERIA

N. U. *Ndaeyo1, Udeme K. Udoh1, A.O. Ikeh1, Edna A. Akpan2, Eno I. Udoh1 and O. R. Akata3

1Department of Crop Science, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria.

2Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Akwa Ibom State University, Obio Akpa, Campus, Nigeria.

3Department of Crop Science, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria


ABSTRACT The experiment was conducted at the University of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm, Use-Offot during the early cropping seasons of 2010 and 2011 to determine effects of sett weight on the growth and yield of some cocoyam species. A randomized complete block design with a split plot arrangement, replicated three times was used. Cocoyam species viz: NXs 001 (known locally as Afia ikpong), NXs 003 (known locally as Asimeka) and NCe 003 (known locally as Ikpong Nwa Ekpo) constituted the main treatments while sett weight (90, 180 and 270 g) constituted the sub-treatments. Results showed no significant difference in establishment percentage among the cocoyam species and sett weight. The NCe 003 species had the widest leaf area and highest number of leaves per plant while NXs 003 produced the longest petiole in both years. The number of cormels, per plant (6.83 and 5.68 in 2010 and 2011, respectively) was significantly higher (P<0.05) in NCe 003 than other species. The NXs 001 produced the highest corm yield (8.02 and 7. 92 t/ha) while NCe 003 had highest cormel yield (11.56 and 11.03t/ha). The NXs 003 (Ikpong Nwa

Ekpo) produced the highest total (corm + cormel) yield, (19.41and 18. 56 t/ha in 2010 and 2011, respectively with percentage difference of 6-36 and 5 -34%). In both years, the 270 g sett weight was superior to other sett weights in all growth and yield parameters irrespective of species while the least was from the 90g sett weight. Therefore, planting of NXs 003 and the use of 270g sett weight would be more rewarding to cocoyam farmers in Uyo agro-ecology. Keywords: Sett weight, growth, yield, cocoyam species, Uyo.

24

EVALUATION OF THE GROWTH AND YIELD POTENTIALS OF

CULTIVARS OF COCOYAM (Colocasia esculenta) IN TWO

LOCATIONS IN SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA

OGBONNA, P.E and ORJI, K.O.

Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.

ABSTRACT

Agronomic evaluations were made in Nsukka and Umudike in south eastern Nigeria in 2008 and 2009 to assess the growth and yield potentials of cocoyam cultivars. This was aimed at identifying stable and high yielding cocoyam cultivars. Five cocoyam cultivars; Ugwuta, Nworoko, Odogolo, Nkpong and Nadu were evaluated in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) experiment in Nsukka in 2008 and repeated at Umudike in 2009. Ugwuta produced the highest tuber yield/ha of 30015kg/ha among the cultivars in Nsukka while the Odogolo cultivar produced the highest tuber yield of 15459kg/ha among the cultivars in Umudike. There was however no significant difference between the yields recorded from Ugwuta and Odogolo in the two locations. It was also noted that all the five cultivars produced higher yields at Nsukka than in Umudike. Ugwuta and Odogolo were recommended to farmers in these locations.

Keywords: Cocoyam, cultivars, yield and locations.

25

RESPONSE OF AMARANTH (Amaranthus specie L.) VARIETIES

TO ORGANIC FERTILIZERS IN JOS- NIGERIA

1Ogedegbe, S.A., 2Ogah, J.J. and 2Ajala, B.A.

1 Department of Crop Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State,

Nigeria

2Department of Plant Science and Technology, University of Jos, Jos, Plateau State

Corresponding author:[email protected]

ABSTRACT

Two field experiments were conducted during the 2011 and 2012 wet seasons at Dagwom Farm, National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom, Plateau State, located on Latitude 09044`N and longitude 08047`E at an altitude of 1239.4 m above sea level to study the response of three amaranth (Amaranthus sp) varieties to three organic fertilizers including control; in respect of amaranth growth. The 12 treatments evaluated were factorial combinations of three amaranth varieties (locally acclaimed as “Pure branch”, “Bakin aleho” and “Jan aleho”) and four fertilizers ( rabbit manure, poultry manure and sheep manure applied at 15 tonnes ha-1 while the control received no substantive application of manure).The treatments were laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), replicated three times. Generally, plant height, stem girth, leaf area, number of leaves, number of days to onset and 100 % of flowering differed significantly depending on variety. Pure branch a grain amaranth was significantly taller possessing longer stem girth and larger leaf area at 6 weeks after sowing compared to the other varieties. Organic fertilizer significantly affected all the 6 measured growth parameters. Rabbit manure which induced flowering at 7 weeks after transplanting, maintained a consistent advantage over the other fertilizers in all the measured variables. However, the response of amaranth to application of sheep manure was comparable to control being at par in virtually all the growth indices. In situations where amaranth is desired for feeding both human and animal populations, production of these crops is feasible with organic fertilizer. With minimal inputs, herbivores such as rabbits can receive good quality amaranth leaves within 6 weeks of sowing making the venture attractive to small scale entrepreneurs.

26

On-farm response of NERICA vs farmers rice varieties to four

nitrogen rates in rainfed upland and lowland ecologies of West Africa

*Okonji.C. J1, Aderibigbe, S.G2., Okeleye, K. A2 and Oikeh, S. O3.

1Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Faculty of Science, Federal

University Oye-Ekite. Ekiti State, Nigeria.

2Department of Plant Physiology and Crop Production, University of Agriculture Abeokuta.

3Africa Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), P. O. Box 30709, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya.

ABSTRACT

In order to overcome the problem of low productivity of traditional rice cultivars, New Rice for Africa (NERICA) varieties were developed for upland and lowland ecologies of West Africa. However, information’s on fertilizer recommendation for the NERICAs in rainfed upland and lowland ecologies in the savannas of West Africa are grossly lacking. Consequently, studies were conducted on three farmers fields at different locations in 2008 to evaluate the response of the best performing NERICA rice from 2006 and 2007 trial, NERICA 14 and farmers rice cultivar “Yari China” local for upland ecology and NERICA L – 42 and “Edozhigi” local cultivar in the lowland ecology to four levels of nitrogen application rates (0, 20, 40 and 60 kg N ha-1). The trials was laid out in randomized complete block design arranged in split – split – plot and replicated three times. The main plot consisted of the locations, the subplot: nitrogen levels, while the sub-sub plots were two rice cultivars. NERICA 14 significantly had higher grain yield (1.19 Mg ha-1) than the farmers rice (0.82 Mg ha-1). The significant location × N and N × V interaction on yield indicated that 40 kg N ha-1 at site 1 gave the optimum yield (1.8 Mg ha-1) as the N × V interaction also showed that NERICA 14 significantly had better yield and obtained the optimum grain yield at 40 kg N ha-1 (1.46 Mg ha-1). In the rainfed lowland trial the farmers rice significantly had higher grain yield (3.0 Mg ha-1) than NERICA L – 42 (2.4 Mg ha-1). Nitrogen rates also showed significant response, as optimum grain yield (3.1 Mg ha-1) was obtained at 40 kg N ha-

1. It is concluded that 40 kg N ha was optimum for grain yield of lowland and upland NERICAs. Keywords: NERICA, ecologies, nitrogen, yield and yield components.

27

Effect of Nitrogen Fertilizer on the Growth and Yield of fluted

pumpkin

(Telfairia occidentalis Hook. F)

Okoro-Robinson M.O.1, Adetunji I. A.2, *Bello W.B.1, Adebisi A.A.1 Oyebamiji T.O1 and Afolabi O. O1

1Department of Agricultural Technology, Oyo State College of Agriculture, Igbo-ora, Oyo State, Nigeria.

2 Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, P.M.B 4000, Oyo State.


ABSTRACT Experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of different levels of nitrogen (N) fertilizer rates on the growth and yield of fluted pumpkin at the Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agricultural Science, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria in the year 2004-2005 cropping seasons. A randomized complete block design was used to analyze six treatments namely: control (no fertilizer), 30, 45, 45, 60 and 75kg urea ha-1 and replicated four times. Each plot size was 4x5m. 50% of the doses were applied 16days after transplanting and the other half was applied 83days after transplanting as top dressing. Data were analysed using analysis of variance LSD at 5% level of significance was used to compare means. Result showed that significant effect were only observed between the control (0kgN/ha) and 30kgN/ha for both seed and pulp when the seed dry matter (DM) was considered while other levels were not significant. For the husk, there was significant effect between treatments 30 and 45kg/ha alone. From all the vegetative parameters collected vein length only showed significant effect at 0 and 30kg/N while significant different occurs at 30Nkg/ha and 60kgN/ha for number of leaf. The result showed that pumpkin response well to increased level of N-fertilizer application up to 60kgN/ha and with a reduction afterwards. There was no significant difference in the vegetative growth Telfairia occidentalis between 45kgN/ha and 60kh/ha application. The results revealed that optimum fluted pumpkin could be harvested at 45kg per hectare. Keywords: Nitrogen fertilizer, growth, yield, seeds, vegetable, (Telfairia

occidentalis).

28

WATER YAM (Dioscorea alata L.) MICROSETT RESPONSES TO

PLANT DENSITY AND MULCHING IN SOUTH EASTERN

NIGERIA

*OKPARA1, D.A., IKORO2 A.I. and OJIKPONG3, T.O

1College of Crop and Soil Sciences, Michael Okpara University of

Agriculture, Abia State. 2National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, Umuahia,

Abia State, Nigeria. 3Department of Agronomy, Cross River University of Technology, Cross

River State, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author: [email protected] ABSTRACT

Field experiments were used to study the response of water yam microsetts to plant density and organic mulch in Umudike, south eastern Nigeria. The experiment was laid out as 5x4 factorial in a randomised compete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Treatments consisted of five plant densities (33333, 40000, 50,000, 66666 and 100000 plants/ha) and four mulch types (dry grass, rice husk, wood shavings and no mulch). Tuber yield increased significantly (P<0.05) with increasing microsett plant density up to 100000 plants/ha, with an average yield of 43.5t/ha. The highest plant density of 100000 plants/ha increased tuber yield over those at 66666, 50000, 40000 and 33333 plants/ha by 38%, 98%, 127% and 116%, respectively. Mulching did not significantly affect tuber yield but mulching with rice husk or wood shavings increased soil potassium than mulching with dry grass.

Keywords: Water yam, plant density, mulching, microsetts, tuber yield.

29

RESPONSE OF AMARANTHUS CRUENTUS TO SOME

AMENDMENTS ON A SANDY-LOAM ALFISOL CONTAMINATED

BY HEAVY METALS

*Modupe Mary Okunlola and Ezekiel Akinkunmi Akinrinde Department of Agronomy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria


ABSTRACT Indiscriminate dumping of industrial wastes often leads to heavy metal accumulation in soils but organic matter amendments could ameliorate the resulting toxicity in crop production. This study evaluated the effectiveness of eight fertilizer treatments (Control; Urea, U; Organic Fertilizer, OF; Single Superphosphate, SSP; SSP+U; OF+U and OF+SSP; OF +SSP+U) in reducing heavy metal uptake by Amaranthus cruentus (L) on contaminated alfisols. Treatments were replicated three times in completely randomized design. Sole and combined treatments (organic and/or inorganic) significantly (p<0.05) enhanced crop performance while heavy metal tissue concentration and uptake by plants were low compared to the Control. Plants treated with OF+U gave the least concentration of tissue Pb (647.00 mg/kg), Zn (198.50 mg/kg) and Cu (16.50 mg/kg) while control plants had the highest corresponding values of 2562.50 mg/kg, 695.00 mg/kg and 66.00 mg/kg. Mineral fertilizer-fortified organic manures have great potential in the production of amaranth plants devoid of heavy metal poisoning.

Keywords: Heavy metals, Amaranth, soil amendments, nutrient uptake.

30

GROWTH AND YIELD RESPONSES OF LEAF AMARANTH TO

NITROGEN FERTILIZER RATES AND INTRA ROW SPACING

Onwuchekwa-Henry, B.C. and C.O. *Muoneke

Department of Agronomy Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike

*Corresponding author: [email protected];

[email protected]

A B S T R A C T

A 5x3 factorial experiment laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) was conducted at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike research farm in 2002 cropping season (May to August) to determine the effect of nitrogen fertilizer rates and intra row spacing on growth and yield of leaf amaranth. Treatments comprised all possible combinations of five nitrogen fertilizer levels (0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 kg/ha) and three intra-row spacing (30, 45, 60 cm) with three replications. Nitrogen significantly (P<0.05) increased number of leaves, number of branches, leaf dry weight and total dry weight, while it had no effect on plant height and shoot dry weight. Plant height and number of branches were not influenced by intra-row spacing. Yield and yield components (leaf fresh weight per plant, leaf yield/ha and marketable yield/ha) increased with increasing N rate up to 90 kg/ha and thereafter declined. Intra row spacing showed significant (P<0.05) effect on yield with 60cm producing the highest yield/ha.

Keywords: Leaf amaranth, N fertilizer, spatial arrangement.

31

EFFECT OF COMPOSTED MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE ON

GROWTH AND YIELD OF MAIZE (ZEA MAYS L.)

*ONWUDIWE, N, OGBONNA P. E. AND ONYEONAGU C. C. Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

*Corresponding author: [email protected], [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Municipalities are facing growing problem of how to safely dispose of their wastes. In Nigeria, municipal solid wastes (MSW) are dumped in sites where people no longer use and may burn them later. This practice poses threats to human health and the environment. Composting solves the problem of converting biodegradable MSW to value added products like manure and biogas. A two year experiment was conducted at the Department of Crop Science Teaching and Research Farm, University of Nigeria, Nsukka to determine the responses of maize to MSW compost. Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications was used for the study. Municipal solid waste was applied at four levels (0, 1000, 1500 and 2000 Kg/ha). Data collected on growth and yield trait such as plant height, stem girth, number of leaves, day to 50% tasselling and grain yield per hectare were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA). The means were separated using Fisher’s Least Significant Difference (F-LSD). Increase in treatment concentration resulted in increased traits measured. Application rate of 2000 Kg/ha of MSW was observed to performed better than other levels and was found satisfactory to achieve the best growth and yield of maize in the study. The authors suggested that further experiment should be conducted to determine the optimum rate since the yield increased with increase in treatment rate. Keywords: Municipal Solid waste, Compost, Maize

32

EVALUATION OF GROWTH AND YIELD RESPONSES OF TARO (Colocasia esculenta) TO PLANT SPACING ON THE PLAINS OF

NSUKKA IN SOUTHEASTHERN NIGERIA

*Orji, K.O.1 , Ogbonna, P.E.2 and Eze, C.E.1

1Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike.

2University of Nigeria, Nsukka.


ABSTRACT Field experiments were conducted in 2008 and 2009 cropping seasons at the linkage farm of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka to evaluate growth and yield responses of five cultivars of taro (Colocasia esculenta) to plant spacing on the plains of Nsukka with the objectives of identifying best performing cultivar and optimum plant spacing. The experiment was laid out in a 3 x 5 factorial in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications in which Factor A is plant spacing comprising 0.3m x1.0m, 0.4m x 1.0m and 0.5m x 1.0m levels while Factor B is taro cultivars consisting of Nkpong, Odogolo, Nworoko, Ugwuta and Nachi. F – LSD was applied to detect significant differences at 5% probability level. The result showed that the mean rainfall for 2009 planting season was higher than that of 2008. The soil was texturally clayey and moderately acidic with a pH of 5.0. Cultivar differences in cormel and corm yield were not significant. However, Nworoko produced the highest yield of 11.0 t/ha among the cultivars. Plant spacing produced significant effect (p = 0.05) in the tuber yield in both 2008 and 2009. Planting at 0.3m x 1.0m gave the highest tuber yield/ha among the three plant spacing.

Keywords: Colocasia esculenta, Factorial, Plant spacing, Cultivars, Yield.

33

EVALUATION OF GROWTH AND YIELD RESPONSES OF TARO (Colocasia esculenta) TO NPK FERTILIZER RATES ON THE PLAINS

OF NSUKKA IN SOUTHEASTHERN NIGERIA

*Orji, K.O.1, Ogbonna, P.E.2 and Eze, C.E.1


2University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

*corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Field experiments were conducted in 2008 and 2009 cropping seasons at the linkage farm of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka to evaluate growth and yield responses of five cultivars of taro (Colocasia esculenta) to different levels of NPK 15:15:15 fertilizer on the plains of Nsukka with the objectives of identifying best performing cultivar and NPK 15:15:15 fertilizer rate. The experiment was laid out in a 5 x 6 factorial in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications in which Factor A is taro cultivars consisting of Nkpong, Odogolo, Nworoko, Ugwuta and Nachi while Factor B is NPK fertilizer with 6 levels which included 0kg/ha, 100kg/ha, 150kg/ha, 200kg/ha, 250kg/ha and 300kg/ha. F – LSD was applied to detect significant differences at 5% probability level. The result showed that the mean rainfall for 2009 planting season was higher than that of 2008. The soil was texturally clayey and moderately acidic with a pH of 5.0. Cultivar differences in cormel and corm yield were not significant. However, Nworoko produced the highest yield of 11.0 t/ha among the cultivars. NPK fertilizer showed significant effect (p= 0.05) on the measured traits with 200kg/ha and 150kg/ha producing the highest yields of 43.0 t/ha and 3.0 t/ha respectively, in both 2008 and 2009.

Keywords: Colocasia esculenta, NPK fertilizer, Cultivars.

34

Effect of different organic materials and NPK fertilizer on the

performance of maize

1Remison, S. U. and 2*Eifediyi, E. K.

1Department of Crop Science, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria 2Department of Agronomy, University of Ilorin, Ilorin Nigeria


ABSTRACT The interest in organic materials as soil fertility restorer is increasing due to the high cost and unavailability of inorganic sources of fertilizer nutrients. The effects of different organic materials and NPK fertilizer on the performance of maize (Zea mays) were examined in field experiments carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria. Ekpoma is located at Latitude 60 451 N and Longitude 60 081 E in a forest savanna transition zone of Edo State, Nigeria. The investigations were carried out during the 2008 and 2009 cropping seasons and involved the use of organic materials (wood shavings, rice hulls, kola nut husks and their combinations) and NPK fertilizer. The layout of the experiment was a randomized complete block design with three replicates. The results indicated that most of the organic materials, especially kola nut husk and its mixture with NPK fertilizer increased yield and yield components in maize. The treatments significantly increased the concentrations of N, P, K and Na in the ear leaf and grains. Keywords: Maize, organic materials, NPK fertilizer, nutrient utilization, grain yield.

35

Agronomic evaluation of some selected medium duration cowpea

varieties (Vigna unguiculata) in the rain forest transitory zone of Nigeria

*Sakariyawo1, O.S., Okeleye1, K.A., Oyekanmi1, A.A., Aderibigbe1, S.G., Okonji2, C.J., Soremi1, P.A.S.

1 Department of Plant Physiology and Crop Production, College of Plant

Science and Crop Production, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

2 Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Faculty of Science, Federal University of Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT

Cowpea production in Nigeria is constrained by abiotic and biotic stressors. Release of cowpea varieties of varying phenological duration could provide ameliorative measure to the negative influence of stressors, especially moisture stress in agro-ecologies with erratic or shortage of rainfall. The objective of this trial was to evaluate the agronomic performance of medium duration (MD) varieties of cowpea in the rainforest transitory zone of Nigeria. Field trials were conducted in the Teaching and Research Farm of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta in the late cropping season of 2011 and 2012 in the transitory rainforest agro-ecology of Nigeria. 16 and 17 medium duration cowpea varieties were selected for evaluation on the field in 2011 and 2012 respectively, laid out in a randomised completely blocked design, replicated three times. Agronomic evaluation was based on growth, development, yield and yield components. Severity of pest and diseases was also evaluated. Results indicated that there were significant (P < 0.05) varietal variability on growth, development, yield components and yield in both years, while significant (P < 0.05) severity of diseases and pest was restricted to only 2012. In both years variety IT06K-270 recorded significantly higher total seed weight/2.25m2, which was also reflected on some yield components that were significantly, positively correlated to the total seed weight/2.25m2. In 2011, variety IFOB/94/DW had significantly lower yield, while in 2012, IFE BDC (local check) recorded significantly lower total seed weight. Variety IT06K-270 is suggested could give better performance in the rainforest transitory zone of Nigeria. Keywords: Cowpea, rainforest transitory zone, medium duration, phenology.

36

COMPARATIVE EFFECTS OF ORGANIC AND INORGANIC SOIL

AMENDMENTS ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF PLANTAIN

(Musa paradisiaca)

Osundare Opeyemi Tunde1., *Fajinmi, Ayodele Anthony2 and Okonji Christopher John2.

1Department. of Crop Science and Horticulture, Federal University, Oye –

Ekiti, Ekiti State Nigeria. 2Department of Crop Soil and Pest Management, Federal University of

Technology Akure.


ABSTRACT

A field experiment was conducted to investigate the comparative effects of organic and inorganic soil amendments on growth and performance of plantain (Musa paradisiaca). The experiment was established in March during the raining season of 2011 and repeated in February 2012. The treatments consisted of nine soil amendments (NPK sole, Jatropha sole, PKC residue sole, Sunshine organo-mineral sole, NPK + Jatropha husk 50:50, Sunshine organo-mineral + Jatropha husk 50:50, PKC residue + NPK 50:50, PKC residue + Sunshine organo-mineral 50:50, and Control) as the experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design and replicated three time. Growth parameters assessed were plant height, stem girth, leaf numbers and leaf area. There was no significant (P < 0.05) difference in the result obtained in the two trials, nevertheless it was observed that NPK 15:15:15 produced the highest response in terms of leaf area, leaf numbers and stem girth. Sunshine organo-mineral also showed higher response in stem girth, while the combination of Jatropha cake and NPK applied at the ratio of 50:50 of the tested treatments rate resulted into the highest plant height.

Keywords: Fertilizers, growth parameters, organo-mineral, plantain, soil amendments.

37

The Effects of Nitrogen Fertilizer Rates and Spacings on the Growth

and Yield of Green amaranth (Amanthus cruentus L.) in Uyo, Akwa

Ibom State

Udom, G. N., Ibanga, P. T. and Udoh, F. J.


ABSTRACT

A field experiment was conducted to assess the response of green amaranth (Amaranthus cruetus L.) to varied rates of nitrogen fertilizer and spacing at University of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm during 2011 cropping session. Four rates of nitrogen fertilizer (70, 80, 90 and 100) kg/ha were applied at three different spacings (20 x 75 cm, 25 x 75 cm and 30 x 75 cm). The experimental design used was a Randomised Complete block Design (RCBD) with factorial arrangement and replicated three times. The effect of nitrogen fertilizer and spacing was significantly different (p<0.05) at 6 and 8 weeks after transplanting (WAT). The effect of treatments recorded significant effect (p<0.05) on the leaf area only at 4 and 6 WAT. In the yield parameter, the 100kg/ha had the highest total foliar yield (9.45t/ha). Among the different spacings, the 30 x 75 cm produced the highest plant height, number of leaves, number of branches, widest lead area and the largest stem. Based on the research findings, the application of 100kg/ha produced the highest foliar and dry matter accumulation. And it is recommended.

Keywords: Nitrogen, spacings, green amaranth.

38

Complementary Use of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth

and Yield of Fluted Pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook F.) in Uyo,

Akwa Ibom State.

Udom, G. N., Udosen, U.U. and Udoh, F. J. Department of Crop Science, University of Uyo, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State,

Nigeria.

ABSTRACTS

An experiment was conducted at the University of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm in 2010 and 2011 to evaluate the effect of Complementary use of poultry manure and urea fertilizer on the growth and yield of fluted pumpkin. The treatments consisted of three rates urea fertilizer (0, 40 and 60) kg/ha and poultry manure at rate (0, 2, 3 and 4) tonnes/hectare. They were factorially combined and randomized complete block design were used. Parameters studied were established count, number of leaves per plant, leaf area, number of branches/plant, vine length,foliar yield, number of pods per plant, length of branches, circumference of pods and pod yields (tonnes/hectare). The results showed significant differences (p<0.05) on vine length, number of leaves per plant, leaf area, foliar yield, number of days to 50% flowering and pod initiation, number of pod per plant and pods yield. It was observed that increasing complementary use of urea fertilizer rate and poultry manure rates up to 60 kg/ha + 4t/ha respectively resulted in highest increase in vegetative characters considered, dry matter (65.11g) and pod yield (15.77t/ha). Keywords: Organic manure inorganic fertilizer, fluted pumpkin.

39

Effects of Phosphorus, Micronutrients and Rhizobia Inoculation on

Growth of Soybean (Glycine max L.) on a Fallowed loamy soil

*Umar, F.G1 and Yusuf, A.A2

1 Soil Science Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Bayero University, Kano, P.M.B 3011, Kano, Nigeria.

2 Soil Science Department, Faculty of Agriculture / Institute of Agricultural Research,, Ahmadu Bello University, P.M.B 1044, Samaru-Zaria, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT

A greenhouse trial was conducted in 2010 to evaluate the Effects of Phosphorus, Micronutrients and Rhizobia Inoculation on Growth of Soybean (Glycine max L.) on a Fallow soil, as fallowing was sought to improved soil fertility and new lands are open up for agriculture due to population growth. The treatments consist of three nutrient levels: All nutrients (Macronutrients-P, K, S, Ca, and Mg, and Micronutrients-Mn, Zn, Cu, Co, B, and Mo), all nutrients minus phosphorus, and all nutrients minus micronutrients; eight inoculants (1495 MAR, TSBF mixture, Legumefix, Histick, IRJ 2180A, RACA 6, TSBF 560 and Biofix (soybean)) and two controls; positive (mineral N) and negative (without mineral N), arranged in Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD). The growth parameters such as plant height, root length, chlorophyll content, number of leaves and leaf area, were assessed at eight weeks after planting (8WAP). The result shows a highly significant difference among the above parameters in terms of nutrient levels with all nutrients > all nutrients minus micronutrient > all nutrients minus phosphorus. However, there was no significant difference in terms of inoculation except in plant height and chlorophyll content. Meanwhile, the interaction between nutrients and inoculation was only significant in chlorophyll content. This shows that nutrients are essential in enhancing the growth of soybean notwithstanding the soil was fallow while rhizobia inoculation was more critical in the chlorophyll synthesis. Keywords: Fallow soil, inoculant, micronutrients, phosphorus, soybean growth.

40

Maize performance in a sandy loam ultisol amended with NPK 15-15-

15 and Poultry Manure

*B.O. Unagwu, C.L.A. Asadu and S. E. Obalum Department of Soil Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.

* Correspondence author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Most of the soils in the tropics are known to be poor in fertility status. Hence, there is the need to supplement the amount of soil nutrients for optimal crop performance. A greenhouse study was carried out at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka to evaluate maize performance using different rates of poultry manure (PM) and NPK fertilizer. The treatments used were 400 kg/ha NPK fertilizer, 80 kg/ha NPK + 8 t/ha PM, 160 kg/ha NPK + 6 t/ha PM, 240 kg/ha NPK + 4 t/ha PM, 320 kg/ha NPK + 2 t/ha PM, 10 t/ha PM, and a control. The treatments had significant effect on dry matter yield, plant height and leaf area of the maize plant. Treatment 8 t/ha PM + 80 kg/ha NPK was the best combination and is recommended for maize production.

Keywords: NPK 15-15-15, Maize yield, poultry manure.

41

Effects of row-spacing and NPK fertilizer on agronomic performance

of sweet maize

(Zea mays L. saccharata Strut) in Calabar

D. F. Uwah* and U. E. Okopedeghe

Department of Crop Science, University of Calabar, P.M.B. 1115, Calabar, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT

A field study was conducted in the late planting season from September to December, 2011 in Calabar, to evaluate the response of sweet maize (Zea

mays L. saccharata Strut) to two row spacings (20 x 60 cm and 40 x 30 cm) and four rates of NPK 15:15:15 fertilizer (0, 100, 200 and 400 kg/ha). Factorial combinations of the treatments were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The 40 x 30 cm spacing maximized plant height, number of leaves/plant, total dry matter (TDM), weight of unhusked green ears, number and weight of grains/ear, total grain yield and hastened days to 50% tasselling. Values obtained for plant height, number of leaves/plant, leaf area, leaf area index, TDM, unhusked green ear weight, number and weight of grains/ear, were statistically similar in plots amended with 200 or 400 kg/ha NPK fertilizer rates, whereas the 400kg/ha NPK rate hastened the number of days to 50% tasselling and also maximized the weight of dehusked green ears. The 40 x 30 cm row spacing out yielded the 20 x 60 cm spacing by 12.6 and 36.0% respectively, in terms of TDM and total grain yield. The application of 100, 200 and 400kg/ha NPK fertilizer increased TDM by 41.3, 70.3, and 69.0%; ear yield by 25.0, 68.2 and 45.0%; and total grain yield by 37.0, 103.9 and 68.5% respectively, compared with the control treatments. The combination of NPK at 200kg/ha with 40 x 30 cm row-spacing maximized plant height, number of leaves/plant, TDM, and total grain yield. Keywords: Sweet maize, row-spacing, NPK fertilizer, rate, total grain yield.

42

Section II

Breeding and

Genetics

43

Physiological basis for drought tolerance in selected lowland rice

varieties

F. T. Adegbehingbe2, R. Venuprasad1, M. Fofana1, V.O Adetimirin2

1AfricaRice Centre Regional Station, P.M.B 5320, Oyo Road, Ibadan, Nigeria

2Department of Agronomy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan

Corresponding Author: [email protected] ABSTRACT

Most studies have made several attempts to identify key drought-resistance traits in order to devise suitable screening methods that would be used in breeding for drought resistance, but these efforts have only been partly successful and often complicate the physiological basis for identifying drought tolerance traits in rice. In this study, previously identified near-isogenic lines (NILs) for drought tolerance were evaluated for mechanism of drought tolerance. The experiment was conducted in a screen house, and the entries were planted in 100 litres capacity buckets (52 cm surface diameter and 64 cm deep) arranged in completely randomised design with two replications under drought-stress and well watered condition. Data such as stomata conductance, plant height, leaf rolling, relative water content, root length and root number at each soil layer were taken in order to understand the mechanisms for drought resistance. Information from this study would provide a better understanding of drought tolerance mechanisms in rice. Keywords: Lowland rice, drought tolerance, near-isogenic lines.

44

Field Reactions of Interspecific Hybrids of Tomato (Lycopersicon

esculentum) Lines to Leaf Spot Disease

Agbo, C. U.,*Amaefula, C. and Echezona, B. C. Department of Crop Science University of Nigeria Nsukka

*Corresponding author e-mail: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Leaf spot (Septoria Lycopersici) is a major disease of tomato causing yield reduction in humid Southern Nigeria. Heterosis was used to assess the field reactions of interspecific hybrids of exotic and wild relative of tomato to leaf spot disease infestation. The experimental materials used were the seeds of four varieties of tomato including; Grosso (G), Insulata (In), Petomech (P) obtained from Naples, Italy and Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium; wild (W) obtained from Mbu in Isi-uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State and 9 hybrids of the four parents. Disease incidence and severity were assessed at 1month after planting and at fruit ripening stages using standard scoring scales. Some phytochemicals were determined on the leaves of the parents and the hybrids at vegetative and reproductive stages. Data obtained on disease incidence, severity, yield and other fruit traits were analyzed according to the procedure of randomized complete block design (RCBD). Better parent heterosis was obtained at both stages of growth. On the phytochemical contents and disease incidence, correlations and path coefficient analysis to partition the correlation coefficients were estimated on the collected data. The number of fruits/plant was significantly (p= 0.05) higher among the wild parents compared to other parents or their hybrids. All cases where wild served as the parent produced significantly (p= 0.05) more number of fruits than either the hybrids or where the wild was the male. Crosses with wild as the female produced significantly (p= 0.05) higher fruit yield compared to situations where they served as male or any other parent. The disease incidence and severity amongst the hybrids were significantly (p= 0.05) reduced in all cases where the wild was the female parent relative to other hybrids. The hybrid, W x P had significantly higher phenol content of 4.29 mg/100g than all the other hybrids and crosses. The hybrid, also had the highest negative BPH (-30.40%) in disease severity. Flavonoid showed a positive and significant correlation with phenol (r= 0.51, n= 39, p= 0.01). Alkaloid showed positive correlation with disease incidence and severity at one month and at ripening stages. Flavonoids showed high magnitude of positive direct effect of 0.98 and indirect effect of 1.0 to fruit yield through disease severity at fruit ripening. Keywords: hybrids, leaf spot, disease incidence, disease severity and phytochemicals.

45

EVALUATION OF CASSAVA (Manihot esculenta Crantz)

GENOTYPES FOR YIELD AND MORPHOLOGICAL

CHARACTERS IN UYO AGRO-ECOLOGY.

Akpan, E. A.1, Ikeh, A. O., Ndaeyo, N. U. 2., Enyong, J. K2., Osundare, K. O2

1Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Akwa Ibom State

University, Obio Akpa Campus. 2Department of Crop Science University of Uyo, Uyo Akwa Ibom State


ABSTRACT

A study was conducted at the University of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm, in 2009 and 2010 cropping seasons to evaluate six cassava genotypes (NR03/0155, NR02/007, NR02/0018, CR41-10, CR14A-1 and Obubit Okpo local variety) for morphological characters and yield. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized complete block design, replicated three times. The plot size was 6m x 6m, each block has 6 plots, totaling 18 plots altogether. Growth and yield parameters were assessed. The results of the study indicted that CR 14A-1 and CR41-10 recorded highest performances in the seven characters namely; number of leaves per plant, leaf area, plant height, number of stems per plant, average tuber length/circumference and total storage tuber yield, while NR02/0018 had highest number of branches at harvest, 29.16 and 29.35 in 2009 and 2010 respectively. The CR14A-1 and CR141-10 producing highest tuber yields, 39.40 and 38.41 tha-1 in 2009 respectively, 39.48 and 39.30 th-1 in 2010 respectively. The least tuber yield of 21.36 and 20.60 tha-1 was obtained from local variety in 2009 and 2010 respectively. The study suggest that cassava genotypes CR41-10, CR14A-1 and NR02/0018 could be incorporated into breeding programmes for the development of hybrid varieties for Uyo agroecology. Keywords: Cassava, genotypes, growth and yield.

46

Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Groundnut Germplasm Using

Simple Sequence Repeat Markers

1*U. Alhassan, 2E. Danquah, 1S.G Ado, 1A.I Yahaya and 1M. Usman

1Department of Plant Science, Institute for Agricultural Research, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria,

2West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement, University of Ghana, Leggon

Corresponding Author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Cultivated groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important source of edible oil and protein. Considerable variation has been reported for morphological, physiological and agronomic traits, whereas few molecular variations have been recorded for the crop. Understanding of the genetic diversity of cultivated groundnut is essential in developing strategies of collection, conservation and use of the germplasm in variety development. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers detected significantly high degree of polymorphism in groundnut and are particularly suitable for evaluating genetic diversity among closely related accessions. A total of 21 groundnut germplasm collections were analysed for DNA profile using 28 SSR loci covering two loci per chromosome. A total of 105 alleles were detected. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 2 to 7, with an average of 3.75, and the polymorphic information content (PIC) value ranged from 0.0907 for marker detected by IPAHM429 to 0.8210 for the marker detected by IPAHM171c with an average PIC of 0.5638. All the loci were polymorphic and clearly distinguished the aphid and rosette resistant genotypes. At 10% similarity, cluster analysis of the germplasm revealed seven cluster groups, distinguishing the aphid resistant genotypes from rosette resistant lines, with aphid resistant lines in cluster I and rosette resistant lines in clusters II and III. Many of the accessions included in this study were morphologically similar and lack pedigree information. Hence, identification of genetic distances among them should improve their use in breeding programs. From this study, genetically diverse parents were identified, increasing the usefulness of germplasm collection by broadening the genetic base of groundnut germplasm. The assessment of genetic diversity will help breeders to make crosses from accessions with different genetic backgrounds and will assist in the development of populations with greater marker polymorphism.

Keywords: Groundnut, genetic diversity, SSR markers.

47

DIFFERENCES AND SIMILARITIES AMONG SIX STATISTICAL PROCEDURES USED FOR PAIRWISE MULTIPLE TREATMENT

MEAN COMPARISONS

*Alika, J. E., Coast, O. and Nwaoguala, C. N.C.

Department of Crop Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria. *Corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Differences and similarities among six pairwise multiple treatment mean comparison procedures i.e. Fisher’s least significant difference (FLSD), Duncan new multiple range test (DMRT), Student Newman Keul’s test (SNKT) Tukey’s honest significant difference (Tukey’s HSD), Scheffe’s test and Beonferroni’s t-test were studied. Data on mean grain yield of 21 cowpea cultivars were utilized for this study. Four sets of data were partitioned from the 21 means. The four sets consisted of 5, 10, 15 and 21 means each. Each set was randomly selected one at a time from the original 21 means. The fourth set contained the 21 means. Each set was subjected to each of the pairwise multiple mean comparison procedure after calculation of analysis of variance. The number and percent significant differences between pairwise comparisons were recorded for each set and for each procedure. Scores of 0 or 1 were assigned to non-significant and significant effect for each comparison for the computation of principal components analysis and single linkage cluster analysis. In the four sets, FLSD and Duncan NMRT recorded the highest frequency of significant differences between the pairwise treatment means. They were moderately followed by SNKT and Tukey’s HSD. The frequency of occurrence of significant differences between the means was extremely low for Bonferroni and Scheffe’s test. Both could be described as being very conservative in detecting differences between treatment means. The similarities among the six procedures were cleanly separated into three clusters by the single linkage cluster analysis and principal components analysis, respectively. LSD and DNMRT were placed together in one cluster group. In most cases, the average of 80% of the total variation was accounted for by the first two principal components.

48

Estimation of genetic variability in five elite maize (Zea mays L. )

varieties in two locations

*Alika J. E., Ebiaghan, E. S., Uzama I. E., Oriarewoh A. O. and C. N. C. Nwaoguala

Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin, Benin City.


ABSTRACT Genetic variability among five elite maize varieties was studied with the aim of identifying varieties with high general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) for grain yield. Half diallel crosses without reciprocals were made between five maize varieties (TUZT SRW-SGY, TZL Comp 1 SYN-Y, SUWAN-2 SR, SUWAN 1 SR-CI and ACR 97 TZL-1 Y) in 2008 at the University of Benin Teaching and Research Farm. In 2009 the 10 F1 progenies and their parents were evaluated in the field for agronomic performance in two locations (Benin City, Edo State and Emuhu, Delta State, Nigeria). Each genotype was planted on two row plots of 5.0 m long. Planting was done on 75 cm between rows and 50 cm within rows giving a plant population of 53,333 plants/ha. Two weeks after planting, seedlings were thinned to two plants per stand. The experiment was laid out as a randomized complete block design in three replications. Data were collected and analyzed for grain yield, plant and ear heights and days to 50% silking. Estimates of general and specific combining abilities (GCA and SCA) were calculated for the four traits. Mean grain yield for progenies ranged between 1,592 and 2572 kg/ha with a cross of Suwan 2-SR × ACR 97 TZL-1 Y being the highest in grain yield. Tallest plants (183 cm) were observed in a cross of TZUT SRW-SGY×TZL Comp 1 SYN-Y. Highest GCA values for grain yield of 95.5 and 84.1 were obtained in ACR 97 TZL-1 Y and Suwan 1-SR CI, respectively; whereas the highest value of 248.0 was recorded for SCA in the cross between Suwan 1×ACR 97 TZL-1 Y. The preponderance of additive genetic variance in Suwan 1 SR-CI and ACR 97 TZL-1 Y is an indication that genetic improvement can be achieved in the two varieties and that high yielding inbred lines can be extracted for hybrid production. Estimates of percent heterosis were highest in Suwan 2 SR C1×ACR97 TZL-1Y (35.5%) and Suwan 1-SRC1×ACR97TZL (28.2%) crosses. showing evidence of high SCA.

Keywords: Zea mays, Genetic variability, General and specific combining abilities, Grain yield.

49

ASSESSMENT OF TOMATO PARENTS FOR IMPROVED HYBRIDS

QUALITY USING COMBINING ABILITY EFFECTS

Amaefula, C.; Agbo, C. U. and Ogbonna, P. E. Department of Crop Science University of Nigeria, Nsukka

*Corresponding author e-mail: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Genetic analysis to assess the relative breeding potentials of four parents of selected tomato lines was conducted for heterosis exploitation. The parents and the resulting successful hybrids were evaluated in a randomised complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Data collected on the fruit quality traits included: average fruit weight (AFW), fruit length (FL), fruit width (FW), pericarp thickness (PT), percent moisture content (% MC), number of seeds/ plant (NS), 20 seed weight (20SW), peduncle length (PL), sepal length (SL), truss length (TL), days to first fruit spoilage (DFFS), days to 50 % fruit spoilage (D50%FS) and days to 100 % fruit spoilage (D100%FS). Data were analysed using GenStat discovery edition 4. The variation among the hybrids were further partitioned into genetic components attributable to general (GCA) and specific (SCA) combining ability following the Griffings model 1, method 2 (parents and one set of F1 without reciprocal). Better Parent Heterosis (BPH) of the fruit characteristics was also determined. The cross, In x P was significantly higher than all the parents in days to first fruit spoilage (46). The cross, W x G was also significantly higher in days to 100% fruit spoilage (86). There was significant GCA and SCA variances among the parents and hybrids, respectively in fruit length, fruit width, number of seeds, days to first fruit spoilage and days to 100 % fruit spoilage. The ratio of degree of dominance (GCA/SCA) showed the prevalence of non – additive gene action in six out of the thirteen traits studied. Average fruit weight (1.87), Fruit length (3.52), fruit width (2.84), pericarp thickness (1.34) and 20 (4.28) seed weight showed additive gene effect. The Insulata parent was a good general combiner for all the traits studied except in shelf life. Petomech had significant general combiner in pericarp thickness, days to first, 50 % and 100 % fruit spoilage (1.38, 5.08, 4.23, and 9.77, respectively). The hybrid, In x G (S23) had significantly higher specific combining ability in fruit length, width and number of seeds/fruit (1.38, 1.49, and 75.7, respectively). In x P (S24) had the best specific combining ability in days to first fruit spoilage (24.46) and percent moisture (30.67). The hybrid, W x G was the best specific combiner in days to 100% fruit spoilage (47.13). Highest BPH in pericarp thickness (13.90%) was recorded for the hybrid, In x P, while W x G had the highest BPH of 262.87% in days to 100% fruit spoilage. The hybrids W x G, In X P, W x P will be recommended for further evaluation based on their superiority in hybrid vigor, SCA effect and mean performance.

Keywords: Tomato, fruit quality, shelf life, hybrids, combining ability.

50

Diallel analysis for quality characteristics in eight genotypes of upland rice

(Oryza sativa L.) in Owerri

*Anyanwu2, C. P. and 1Obi, I. U.

1Dept of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology,

Owerri. Corresponding author: [email protected].

ABSTRACT Estimates of combining ability effects revealed that 5 out of the 8 parents showed positive GCA effects for grain length. The cross IR57689-73 x Fofifa 16 showed maximum positive SCA effect (0.175) followed by IR57689-73 x EMPASC 105 (0.123). The ratio of additive to total genetic variance was 0.8333 while 0.1667 was due to SCA effect for grain width. Estimates of combining ability showed that 3 parents, namely: Fofifa 16, IR57689-73 and WAB 96-1-1 showed positive GCA effects of 0.1338, 0.1233 and 0.0254 respectively for this character. The cross of IR57689-73 x NERICA 1 (0.377) was the best specific combination followed by Max x EMPASC 105 (0.0908), WITA 4 x WAB 96-1-1 (0.085) and WITA 4 x IR57689-73 (0.0704). Positive GCA effects were recorded for 50% of the parents namely: WITA 4 (0.2169), Max (0.0548), CT7127- 49 (0.0317) and EMPASC 105 (0.0165). Maximum positive SCA effects were found in Fofifa 16 x NERICA 1 (0.433) followed by IR5789-73 x NERICA 1 (0.411), EMPASC 105 x NERICA 1(0.408), EMPASC 105 x Fofifa 16 (0.301) and WITA 4 x Max (0.274). The mean square due to GCA, SCA and reciprocal effects were highly significant for percentage protein content. Computation of the components of variance revealed that SCA variance (93.4%) was much greater than GCA variance (6.6%) resulting in greater dominance variance. The proportion of additive to total genetic variance was 0.1224 while 0.8776 came from SCA variance. About 50% of the parents showed desirable positive GCA effects of 0.6582 (CT7127- 49), 0.2015 (EMPASC 105), 0.0882 (WAB 96-1-1) and 0.0190 (Max). The results also revealed high and significant values for reciprocal effects indicating the role of maternal dosage in the inheritance of protein content in rice. The cross WITA 4 x NERICA 1 showing the highest SCA effects alongside with IR57689-73 x Fofifa 16, IR57689-73 x NERICA 1 and Fofifa 16 x NERICA 1 involved both parents as poor general combiners, yet they developed positive SCA effects indicating the presence of non-allelic interactions at the heterozygous loci.

51

GENETIC ANALYSIS OF YIELD PARAMETERS OF RICE

GENOTYPES 1*Anyanwu, C.P., 2Onyia, V.N. and Obi2, I.U.

1Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri.

2Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. *Corresponding author: [email protected].

ABSTRACT

The extent of genetic variability existing among 28 genotypes of rice was studied using 9 quantitative traits at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, in a randomized block design replicated three times during the planting seasons of 2005 and 2006. Highly significant differences among the genotypes were observed, indicating presence of high variability and ample scope for selection of the characters for rice improvement. The phenotypic variances(Vp) were higher than the genotypic variances(Vg) indicating the influence of environmental factors on the traits. The highest variability (Vg and Vp) in 2005, was recorded for number of spikelet per panicle (954.13and 411.63) and plant height at flowering (129.93 and 71.03) in 2006. High heritability was recorded for panicle length (94.2%), plant height at flowering (85.8%) and tillers per stand (75.7%) in 2005 while in 2006, tillers per stand (84.5%) and days to anthesis (71.4%) had highest heritability values. Lowest heritability estimates were recorded for 1000 seed weight with 25% and 13% respectively for both years while percentage fertile spikelet had 29.7% in 2005. Relatively high genetic advance was recorded for number of spikelet per panicle and number of days to anthesis (17.31 and 17.53) respectively for the two years. High heritability associated with moderate genetic advance was recorded for panicle length and tillers per stand. This suggested the greater role of non- additive gene action in its inheritance and could be improved through heterotic breeding. On the other hand, characters like number of days to flowering and plant height at flowering having high values for heritability and genetic advance indicate equal emphasis of additive and non- additive gene effects in the inheritance of these traits. Selection for such traits will be more profitable if delayed to advanced generations.

Keywords: Phenotypic and genotypic variance, coefficients of variation, heritability, genetic advance.

52

Selection of Agronomic Traits in Advanced Generations of three Inter-

specific crosses of Solanum species

Atugwu*, A. I. and Uguru, M.I. Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.

*Correspondence Author: [email protected] ABSTRACT The evaluation and selection of novel lines from advanced generations of interspecific hybrids of tomato were carried out from 2004 to 2008 in the Department of Crop Science Research Farm, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. The hybrid population were generated from interspecific hybridization between the cultivated tomato (Solanum lycopersicon) and a wild relative of tomato (S .pimpinelifolium). They consist of Roma x Wild, Local x Wild and Tropica x Wild. The results revealed consistent increase in the yield traits from one generation to another. Selection differential showed consistent progress in the improvement of the traits in the progenies indicating that selection was effective. The realized heritability estimate and genetic gains provide sufficient evidence of exploitable additive gene effects. Trait improvement elasticity appear to have been exhausted at the F11 generation as there was discernable decline in performance of all the hybrids at the F12 generation. Comparatively, the hybrids, Roma x Wild and Tropica x Wild out performed Local x Wild in all the traits from F7 to F12 generations thereby suggesting the two hybrids as potential candidates for selection and improvement of yield traits in tomato. Keywords: Tomato, inter-specific hybrids, genetic gain and Solanum lycopersicon, S.pimpinellifolium.

53

Evaluation of Drought Tolerant and Early Maturing Maize (Zea mays) Varieties in

Northern Guinea Savannah of North Eastern Nigeria

Y. Dugje1, P. E. Odo1*, I. A. Telli2, A. T. S. Bibinu3, A. Y. Kamara4 and E. A. Asiedu5

1Department of Crop Production, University of Maiduguri, P.M.B.1069, Maiduguri, Nigeria 2Borno State Agricultural Development Programme, P.M.B. 1452, Maiduguri, Nigeria

3Lake Chad Research Institute, P.M.B. 1293, Maiduguri, Nigeria 4International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Kano Station, Kano, Nigeria

5CORAF/WECARD 7 Av. Bourguiba B.P. 48, cp 18523, Dakar, Senegal

*Corresponding author: [email protected] ABSTRACT Maize productivity is limited by drought in the dry savannah areas of Nigeria. Field trials were conducted at Askira Research Station (Latitude 10o 38.24’N, and Longitude 12o 55.04’E, 472 m asl) in northern Guinea savannah of north eastern Nigeria during 2011 and 2012 rainy seasons to evaluate the performance of drought tolerant maize varieties. Randomized Complete Block Design was used to evaluate 12 varieties and one Local Check in three replications. The results showed that plants were significantly (p<0.05) taller in 2004 TZE W DT STR C4 and the Local Check than POOL 18 SR, EVDT 99 W STR, 2009 TZE W POP STR and TZE COMP 3 DT W C2. Ear height was significantly (p<0.05) greater for LNTP x LNTP W C3, Local Check, 2004 TZE W DT STR C4 and EVDT 99 W STR QPM than EVDT 99 W STR, TZE COMP 3 DT W C2, DT W STR SYN, POOL 18 SR, 2009 TZE W POP STR and EVDT 2000 Y STR QPM. Striga count was significantly (p<0.05) lower in EVDT 99 W STR and LNTP x LNTP W C3 than all the other entries. Tasselling was significantly (p<0.05) earlier in EVDT 99 STR W STR QPM, DT W STR SYN, EVDT 99 W STR, POOL 18 SR, 2008 DTMA Y STR and EVDT 2000 Y STR QPM than LNTP x LNTP W C3, 2004 TZE W DT STR C4 and the Local Check. Days to silking was significantly (p<0.05) earlier for EVDT 99 W STR, DTWSTR SYN and 2009 TZE W POP STR than the Local Check and LNTP x LNTP W C3. Number of cobs/plant was significantly (p<0.05) higher for 2008 DTMA Y STR than the Local Check, EVDT 2000 Y STR QPM and TZE COMP 3 DT W C2. However, cob weight was significantly (p<0.05) higher in the Local Check than 2009 TZE W POP STR and POOL 18 SR. Grain yield/ha was significantly (p<0.05) superior in DT Y STR SYN, 2008 DTMA Y STR , 2004 TZE W DT STR C4, 2009 TZE W POP STR and EVDT 99 W STR QPM, respectively. Linear relationships showed that grain yield/ha was positively correlated with cobs/plant, days to 50 % silking, days to 50% tasselling and ear height; while cobs/plant was negatively correlated with cob weight. It is recommended that the five promising entries: DT Y STR SYN, 2008 DTMA Y STR, 2004 TZE W DT STR C4, 2009 TZE W POP STR and EVDT 99 W STR QPM be considered for further evaluation, and adoption for improving food security in the savannah region.

Keywords: Zea mays, germplasm evaluation, shoot growth, grain yield.

54

CORRELATION AND REGRESSION STUDIES OF GRAIN YIELD

RELATED CHARACTERS IN MAIZE (Zea mays L.) UNDER

UMUDIKE CONDITIONS OF SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA

1*Eleweanya, N.P, 2Uguru, M.I. 3Eneobong, E.E and 1Okcha, P.I.

1Department of Agronomy, college of crop and soil sciences, Michael

Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. P.M.B. 7267, Umuahia. Abia State.

2Department of crop science. Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria,

Nsukka.

3Cross River State University of Technology, Calabar, Cross River State.


ABSTRACT

The relationships between grain yield and its components of nineteen (19) open pollinated (op) maize genotypes were studied using linear correlation and regression analyses. Plants were grown for two years. Grain yield showed positive significant correlations with fresh ear weight, ear diameter, shelling percentage, cob length, 100-seed weight, number of leaves at harvest and plant height at harvest. Days to 50% tasselling and silking were negatively correlated with yield in both years. Regression analysis revealed that fresh ear weight, ear diameter and shelling percentage contributed appreciably to yield in both years. Multiple regression analysis (performed

stepwise) of fresh ear weight, ear diameter and shelling percentage revealed a positive and highly significant (O<0.01) linear relationship with yield in both years. The regression coefficient of determination (r2) values obtained in 1998 and 1999 showed that fresh ear weight accounted for 88 and 75% of the variations in yield, followed by ear diameter which accounted for 60 and 76% in both years. Shelling percentage accounted for 45 and 68% of the variations in yield. Therefore, these three agronomic characters are very important components of grain yield and should be given high weight age in any selection process aimed at improving grain yield in maize. Keywords: Linear correlation, regression coefficient, maize genotypes, agronomic characters.

55

Evaluation of S2 maize selections from low and high input environments in a

high nitrogen environment

T. O. Emede1* and Alika1, J.E.

1Department of Crop Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria *Corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Poor soil fertility especially low nitrogen (N) is a major constraint to the productivity of maize in West Africa. As part of the breeding strategy, effort is currently being made to use second generation selfed (S2) selection to improve maize population to low N tolerance. The objective of this present study was to compare the agronomic characteristics, genotypic variation, heritability, and genotype x environment (G x E) interaction of selected high and low nitrogen S2 maize lines in a high nitrogen environment. Top 10 high N and 10 low N S2 progenies selected from each of high and low N environments respectively, were used for the study. The combined population of the selected S2 progenies, from both high N and low N, the parent (TZBR-ELD3C2 ), and two check varieties (TZL-COMP3C3, and TZL-COMP4C2) were planted during the early and late seasons in High N environments at NIFOR, near Benin City, Edo State and Ozoro, Delta State, respectively. The high N environments were fertilized at the rate of 150 kg N, 75 kg P2O5 and 75 kg k2O per hectare. A randomized complete block design with two replications was used for the study. The results indicated that the average grain yield of the 10 low N progenies across the four high N environments was 2.5 t/ha, while the average grain yield of the 10 high N progenies was 2.3 t/ha. However, there was no significant difference between high and low N progenies in grain yield. The low N S2 progenies exhibited greater phenotypic and genetic variability than high N S2 progenies in maize grain yield and other secondary agronomic characteristics. The low N S2 progenies also exhibited significant G x E interactions in grain yield, leaf senescence, and ear length; while high N S2 progenies had significant G x E interaction in only stem lodging. Heritability estimates among low N progenies were greater in most of the secondary agronomic characters and grain yield than high N progenies. Estimates of heritability among low N progenies varied from 37.5 – 95.1% for all characters and from -5.0 – 87.6% among the high N progenies. Thus, direct selection under low N conditions was more efficient to improve N use efficiency for grain yield than indirect selection at high N environments. Keywords: S2 Maize, Selections. Nitrogen, Variation, Heritability, Evaluation.

56

PHENOTYPIC AND GENETIC VARIATION OF S2 MAIZE (Zea mays L.)

SELECTIONS FROM HIGH AND LOW INPUT CONDITIONS IN

CONTRASTING NITROGEN ENVIRONMENTS

T. O. Emede*and J. E. Alika

Department of Crop Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria *Correspondence author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Nitrogen stress is a major constraint to maize production in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Thus, improved maize germplasm tolerant to low N with the capacity to utilize N more efficiently together with improved agronomic practices appear to be the primary remedy for low input management. As part of the breeding strategy, effort is currently being made to use second generation selfed (S2) selection to improve maize for low N tolerance. This study assessed genotypic variation, heritability, G x E, and genetic gain among selected high and low N S2 lines. Top 10 high N and 10 low N S2 progenies selected from each of the high and low N environments, respectively, were used for the study. The combined population of the selected S2 progenies, from both high and low N were planted during the early and late seasons in separate High N and Low N environments at NIFOR, near Benin City, Edo State and Ozoro, Delta State, respectively. Fertilizer was not applied in the low N environments, while the high N environment was fertilized at the rate of 150 kg N, 75 kg P2O5 and 75 kg k2O per hectare. A randomized complete block design with two replications was used for the study. The average grain yield of the 10 low N progenies in high and low N environments was 2.5 t/ha and 1.0 t/ha, respectively, while the average grain yields of the 10 high N progenies were 2.3 t/ha and 0.9 t/ha in high and low N environments, respectively. The greater grain yield of low N progenies in both high and low N environments, although not significant, implied that they were more efficient in the use of nitrogen. Heritability estimates among the selected 10 high N and 10 low N S2 progenies were generally lower under low N environments than high N. However, low N progenies expressed higher heritability estimates for grain yield and other secondary agronomic characters than high N progenies under high and low N environments. The magnitude of genotypic variance, heritability and gains from selection is affected by N level and type of genetic material. The results also confirmed the effectiveness of S2 progeny selection as a population improvement procedure capable of improving the performance of maize population for low N tolerance.

Keywords: S2 maize, High N environment, heritability, low N environment.

57

EVALUATION OF TEN CULTIVARS OF SOYBEAN (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) IN ABAKALIKI, SOUTHEAST AGRO-ECOLOGICAL ZONE OF

NIGERIA

1Eze, C.E.,*, .2Okolo, C.C, 1Agbo, E.A. and 3Utobo, E.B.


2University of Nigeria, Nsukka. 3Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki.


ABSTRACT

A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of ten Soybean (Glycine max) cultivars (TGX 1440-1E, TGX 1987-10F, TGX 1987-65F, TGX 1987-9F, TGX 1987-23F, TGX 1987-18F, TGX 1987-64F, TGX 1987-20F, TGX 1987-34F, and TGX 1987-11F) under the soil conditions of Abakaliki, Southeast Agro-ecological Zone of Nigeria. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) and replicated three times. Parameters measured included days to 50% flowering, nodulation, days to maturity, height at harvest (cm), lodging characteristics, number of plants harvested, plot yield (grain and fodder, t/ha), shattering characteristics, soybean mosaic virus (SMV) disease and frog-eye leaf spot incidence. The results showed highly significant differences (p = 0.01) among the cultivars for days to 50% germination, 50% flowering, days to maturity, height at harvest (cm), number of plants harvested, shattering characteristics and SMV disease. Also, significant differences (p = 0.05) were observed for nodulation and grain yield (t/ha). However, the cultivars showed no statistical differences in terms of lodging characteristics and fodder yield (t/ha). TGX 1987-9F performed better than other cultivars evaluated in terms of grain yield but only differed statistically from TGX 1987-23F. From the regression analysis, nodulation, height at harvest, lodging, number of plants harvested, fodder yield and shattering had positive effects on the grain yield while days to 50% germination, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and SMV had negative effects. From the correlation coefficients, the grain yield (t/ha) strongly correlated with days to 50% germination (0.81), fodder yield (0.79) and number of plants harvested (0.73). Keywords: Glycine max, Grain yield (t/ha), Fodder yield (t/ha), Abakaliki.

58

Evaluation of Parent, F1s, F2s and BC1s of TZSR-W and EV8076

Varieties of Maize [Zea mays L.]

*Ezema R.A., Ibudialo, A.N. and Omeje, T.E. Department of Agronomy, Enugu State College of Agriculture and Agro-

entrepreneurship, Iwollo, Enugu State Nigeria. *Corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Eleven characters of parents, F1s, F2s and BC1s of TZSR-W and EV8076 varieties of maize (Zea mays L.) were studied to present data on the differences existing in important characters among them; and verifying if these differences were enough to encourage selection for advantageous characters. The characters studied include: days to 50% tasselling and silking, plant and ear height, leaf area, percentage moisture of seeds at harvest, field weight, shelling percentage, 100-seed weight, seed density and grain yield. Significant differences were observed in days to 50% tasselling and silking, plant and ear heights, 100-seed weight and density. The grain yield ranged from 0.64 to 2.81t.ha-1. The TZSRW X (TZSR-WXEV8076), had highest yield (2.81 tons/ha which however did not differ significantly with all the other genotypes except TZSR-W X EV8076, EV8076 X TZSR-W, TZSR-W and (EV8076 X TZSR-W) X(EV8076 X TZSR-W3), which had grain yields of 1.84, 1.52, 1.29 and 0.64 tha-1. All the genotypes had the same shelling percentage. The differences observed in these characters studied may not be sufficient to warrant further selection. However, since EV8076 is exotic, the two varieties could be combined for broader genetic base and selected for yield and other desirable characters. Keywords: Genotypes, EV8076, TZSR-W, maize selection yield components.

59

Evaluation of selection criteria on growth and yield of two maize (Zea

mays L.) varieties in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria

*Gana A. S. and Bigun P.I. Department of Crop Production, Federal University of Technology, Minna,

Niger State, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT Selection is a critical aspect of crop improvement. This study looked at various selection criteria and how they affect the growth and yield two maize varieties. Eight selection criteria were evaluated on two maize varieties in a factorial design fitted into randomized complete blocks. Bulk planting was initially done prior to the establishment of the experiment. Plant height was taken at various dates in both the pot and field experiments. Also cob and grain weights were taken. Result of plant height for the pot experiment showed that variety and criteria interaction was significant (p<0.05) at all the weeks after sowing (WAS). Early maturing (EM) consistently had taller plants at 2, 4, 6 and 8 WAS, but plant height was significant to bottom seeds (BTS), late maturing (LM), small seeds (SS) and top seeds. Grain yield result from the field experiment showed that early maturing (EM) had higher grain yield per plant and was significantly different from other selection criteria in the two varieties. Farmers could be advised to save early maturing crops as planting material for subsequent planting.

Keywords: Zea mays, selection criteria, shoot growth, grain yield.

60

COMBINING ABILITY FROM DIALLEL CROSSES AMONG

EIGHT MAIZE VARIETIES OF DIFFERENT MATURITY GROUPS

Ibrahim, A. K1., S. G. Ado1, I. S. Usman1 and S. G. Muhammad2

1Department of Plant Science, Ahmadu Bello University. 2Department of Agronomy, Bayero University Kano.


ABSTRACT

Full-diallel cross comprising eight varieties belonging to four different maturity groups was developed to determine general and specific combining ability (GCA and SCA) of parents and the hybrids. Eighty one genotypes comprising the crosses, reciprocals, selfs, parents and nine checks were evaluated in 9 x 9 lattice design at Kadawa under irrigation in two different environments (planting dates). Combined analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences for the environment for days to 50% pollen shed, plant height and grain yield. GCA variances were highly significant for days to 50% silking and significant for number of kernels per row while the SCA variance was significant for only plant height. The significant GCA and SCA indicate presence of additive and non-additive gene action for the respective characters. Significant GCA x environment interaction was observed for days to maturity, number of kernels per row and grain yield and highly significant difference for days to 50% pollen shed, indicating different parental varieties behaved differently for these characters under the different environments. Therefore there is need to select different parental varieties for inbred development for hybrid production for specific environments. Significant SCA x environment interaction was observed for only number of kernels per row indicating that the performance of the character varies with respect to environments. Sammaz 27 was the best general combiner for high yield, earliness and other traits. The crosses which showed significant SCA effect for grain yield were Sammaz 35 x Sammaz 27 and Sammaz 29 x Sammaz 37. These varieties could be exploited for inbred line development to produce commercial high yielding hybrids.

61

THE RESPONSE OF DIPLOID HYBRID STOCKS OF BANANA OF

DIFFERENT PEDIGREE TO BLACK SIGATOKA RESISTANCE

AND AGRONOMIC PERFORMANCE

*Igili1 D. N., Uguru2 M. I. and Baiyeri2 K. P.

1Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Anambra State University,

Uli, Nigeria. 2Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT Selected genetically related diploid Musa materials of the base, first, and second generations of the breeding programme in the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) high rainfall station Onne were evaluated for black Sigatoka resistance and agronomic performance. This was done in order to assess the progress made over time in the breeding programme. The base generation used in the crosses were, Tjau lagada (TL), Pisang lilin (PL), Calcutta 4 (C4), Wh-O-Gu (WG), Bobby tannap (BT), and Obino l’ewai (OL). The results obtained showed that in the primary hybrids, the crosses between Tjau lagada and Pisang lilin (TL x PL) recorded highest values for both plant height and plant girth, while the crosses between Calcutta 4 and Wh-O-Gu (C4 x WG) had least values for both traits. For disease response traits, C4 x WG recorded the highest youngest leaf spotted at flowering with exceptionally high leaf retention index. For yield parameters, TL x PL and BT x C4 had the highest and lowest values respectively for both bunch weight and total biomass. TL x PL recorded highest values for number of hands and number of fingers, while C4 x WG had lowest values for both traits. C4 x WG had highest values for both fruit length and fruit circumference. In the secondary hybrids, (BT x C4) x (TL x PL) and (BT x C4) x (OL x C4) recorded the highest and the lowest values respectively for both plant height and plant girth. For disease response traits, (BT x C4) x (OL x C4) had highest performance for both index of non-spotted leaves and youngest leaf spotted at flowering. The yield parameters showed that (BT x C4) x (TL x PL) had highest values for bunch weight, total biomass, number of hands, number of fingers, and fruit length. Keywords: Diploid hybrids, pedigree, black Sigatoka resistance, agronomic performance.

62

EVALUATION OF ADAPTABILITY OF SOME WATER YAM

(Dioscorea alata) GENOTYPES TO ACID SOILS OF UYO,

SOUTHEASTERN NIGERIA

N. U. *Ndaeyo1, I. E.Ekanem1, J. E. G. Ikeorgu2, O. S. Aderi1 and D. M. Esang3

1Department of Crop Science, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria

2National Root Crop Research Institute, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria 3Department of Crop Science, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria

*Corresponding author: dr_nundaeyo@yahoo,com

ABSTRACT

The experiment was conducted at the University of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm, Use-Offot during the early cropping seasons of 2010 and 2011 to assess the adaptability of some water yam genotypes to Uyo agro-ecology. A randomized complete block design with three replicates was used. Six yam genotypes viz: TDa 00/00074, TDa 00/00060, TDa 02/00019, UME 680, TDa 02/00812 and a local best variety known as Afia

Ebre constituted the treatments. Results showed that establishment percentage was not significantly different among the yam genotypes. In both 2010 and 2011, UME 680 genotype produced significantly higher (P<0.05) number of tubers per plant than other genotypes by 2 -72 and 3 -70 %, respectively. The TDa 00/00060 genotype produced the longest tubers which superseded other genotypes by 8 -36 and 7 – 34 % in 2010 and 2011, respectively. Tuber yield differed significantly (P<0.05) among the yam genotypes with the highest tuber yield (16.68 and 15. 92 t/ha in 2010 and 2011, respectively) obtained from TDa 02/00812 which had a percentage difference of 4 – 55 and 5 – 53 % above other genotypes. This was followed by UME680 (15.96 and 14. 38 t/ha) which superseded others by 4 – 55% and 3- 53%, respectively. The result has indicated that TDa 02/00812 genotype has potentials for Uyo agro-ecology. Keywords: Adaptability, water yam, genotypes, acid soils, Uyo.

63

ZINC BIOFORTIFICATION OF CASSAVA STORAGE ROOTS

*Kahya, S 1, 2, 3., Narayanan, N 1., Onyenobi, F. I 3., Onyeka, J 2., Gaitan-

Solis, E1., Elisa, L ., Mbanaso, E.N.A2., Egesi, C 2., Okogbenin, E2., Fregene, M1., Sayre, R1

1Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, 975 N. Warson Road, St. Louis,

MO 63132 U.S.A 2National Root Crops Research Institute Umudike P.M.B 7006, Abia State,

Nigeria 3Abia State University P.M.B 2000, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria


ABSTRACT

Biofortification is the process of enriching the nutrient content of staple food crops as a means of ameliorating micronutrient malnutrition worldwide. Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is a major staple food crop for more than 300 million people in Africa, but lacks sufficient amounts of important micronutrients such as Zinc (Zn), Vitamin A and Iron. Zn deficiency is estimated to affect more than 25% of the world’s population and is particularly a widespread nutrition and health problem in the developing countries. The biofortification of cassava roots using transgenic approaches is found to be more effective than other strategies such as food fortification or nutrient supplements. Although the mechanisms of Zn translocation in cassava plants are not fully understood, it has recently received increase interest. For efficient nutrient accumulation in cassava storage roots, both uptake and storage is essential. To achieve enhance zinc uptake and accumulation in cassava, Zn transporter under the control of root epidermal promoter and storage Zn protein under the control of root specific promoter was introduced into cassava via Agrobacterium mediated transformation. Twenty one independent transgenic lines were obtained in cassava. Molecular analyses were carried out to identify the presence of genes and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) shows 1.5 fold increase of Zn concentrations in transgenic roots. We present hypothesis of mechanisms for accumulation of Zn in storage roots of the cassava plant.

64

The effects of maternal and paternal environments on time of flowering

in short-day and day-neutral cowpeas [ Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp]

1Manggoel, W., 2Uguru, M. I. and 1Dasbak, M.A.D.

1Department of Agric. Technology, College of Agriculture, Garkawa, Plateau State.

2Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria. Corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Time of flowering is an important component of the adaptation of a variety to a particular environment and a determinant of time to maturity. Field experiments were conducted in 2006 and 2007 cropping seasons at the Research Farm of the Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka; to evaluate the effects of maternal and paternal environments on time of flowering in short-day (SD) and day-neutral (DN) cowpeas [Vigna

unguiculata (L.) Walp]. The parents, F1, F2 and backcross progenies differed significantly (P<0.05) in the mean number of days to flowering. The mean number of days to flowering for DN cowpeas were significantly (P<0.05) shorter compared to the SD cowpeas. Parental influence showed that maternal environments controlled time of flowering in contrast to paternal environments which had no discernable influence on days to flowering in the two photoperiodic groups of cowpeas.

65

Genetic Diversity of Maize (Zea mays) germplasm from Southeastern Nigeria

for Resistance to Pink Stem Borer, Sesamia calamistis (Hampson, Noctuidae)

and Sugarcane Borer, Eldana saccharina (Walker, Pyralidae)

Ngwuta1* A. A, Ajala2 S. O, Obi3 I. U. and Ene-Obong4

1Dept. of Crop Sci. & Technol. Fed. Univ. of Technology (FUTO), P.M.B 1526

Owerri. Imo State, Nigeria. 2Maize Improvement Programme, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture

(IITA), P.M.B. 5320, Oyo Road Ibadan, Nigeria. 3Department of Crop Science. University. of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Enugu State,

Nigeria. 4Cross River Univ. of Technology (CRUTECH) Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT Both the pink stem borer, Sesamia calamistis (Hampson, Noctuidae) and sugarcane borer, Eldana saccharina (Walker, Pyralidae) that affect maize are endemic in southeastern Nigeria still maize is an important economic crop in the area. Therefore, it is possible to find useful genes in such areas of stress, since such genes have been responsible for the survival of host crops over the years Genetic diversity for a range of agronomic and resistance attributes within 209 local maize collections from southeastern Nigeria and three improved check varieties were investigated in field trials in three locations in a total of four environments in 2001 . Highly significant genotypic variance obtained in all the traits is indicative of the magnitude of variation that exists among the genotypes thus, providing the opportunity of selection for desirable traits. Furthermore, four traits namely, leaf feeding, ear damage, stalk lodging and yield were used from across the environments to construct a selection index (rank selection index, RSI), that was used to rank the entries for resistance to stem borers. This ranking identified 11 genotypes representing top 5% of the total as resistant. AMA TZBR-W C1 (from IITA-Ibadan) had the best overall resistance levels followed by genotypes SE NG-77 and SE NG-67 (from Umuahia North), SE NG-62 (from Ikwuano), SE NG-148 (from Ukwa West), SE NG-106 (from Bende), SE NG-119 (from Isiala Ngwa), SE NG-33 (from Ikwuano) and SE NG-65 (from Umuahia North), in that order. Genotype SE NG-32 (from Ikwuano) was the worst. Keywords: Zea mays, Genetic diversity, Sesamia calamistis, Eldana saccharina,

genetic variance, rank selection index, stem borer resistance.

66

Performance of Five Cowpea Varieties on Oxic Dystrospepts of humid

Forest Zone of Nigeria

T.O. Ojikpong*, E. E. Oku, E. E. Attoe and M.A. Kekong

Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, Cross River

University of Technology, Obubra Campus, Cross River State, Nigeria.

*Corresponding Author: [email protected] ABSTRACT

Field experiments were conducted at the teaching and research farm of the Cross River University of Technology, Obubra campus during the 2005 and 2006 cropping seasons to determine the growth and yield responses of five newly released varieties of cowpea by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), on Oxic Dystropepts of humid forest zone of Nigeria. The varieties were; IT 98K-205-15 (T1), IT 93K-452-1 (T2), IT 98K-1111-1 (T3), IT 97K-461-4 (T4), IT 99K-1122 (T5) and Local control (T6). The experiment for each season was a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Grain yield, length of pods, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod and 100- seed weight were assessed. Mean grain yield showed no significant difference in 2005 and 2006. The yields in 2005 were (4.27, 5.28, 5.65, 5.60, 5.71 and 4.02) tons/ha for treatments 1, 2,3,4,5 and 6, respectively and 3.84, 4.85, 4.11, 4.27, 4.05 and 3.55) tons/ha for treatments 1, 2,3,4,5 and 6, respectively, in 2006. A multidimensional analysis used for decision making ranks IT 93K-452-1 (T2) as the best variety followed by IT 99K-1122 (T5) and are therefore recommended for the study location.

Keywords: Cowpea, variety, Oxic Dystrspepts, humid forest zone

67

Thevetia peruviana (Pers.) K. Schum: AN IMPORTANT BUT

NEGLECTED LATEX PLANT

*Ogidi, E. G. O1., OKore, I. K1., Ubani K. C., and Kalu, M2

1Department of Crop Improvement and Management, Rubber Research

Institute of Nigeria, Benin. 2Department of Forestry and Environmental Management, Michael Okpara

University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State.

*Corresponding author: [email protected] ABSTRACT Some plants exist that have enormous impact on the society but are given little or no attention in terms of domestication and full development. One of such is the multipurpose latex plant called Thevetia peruviana, an evergreen tropical shrub or small tree that belonged to the Apocynaceae family. The origin, distribution, management and utilization of this tree has been discussed with a view to drawing the attention of agricultural and agro-forestry scientists, as well as, nutritionists, pharmacologists and rural development workers; awakening their interest to embracing the facts that continued neglect of this tree may lead to its eventual extinction. Available records depict that the tree is from tropical American, having a distribution of Neo-tropical confines. The management of the tree is discussed in the light of its traditional, deliberate and accidental dispersal and propagation. Its utilization has been considered in terms of its food, structure, fuel, commercial, pharmaceutical, aesthetic and environmental values. The implications of the continued neglect of Thevetia peruviana are discussed. Recommendations are made that detailed biological and improvement studies should be undertaken, including proper valuation and conservation studies to develop and utilize the enormous potentials of the plant. It was concluded that the multipurpose tree with great potentials be given due attention if the pursuit of agricultural sustainability and environment protection in Nigeria would be realized. Keywords: Thevetia, species, apocynaceae, pharmaceutical, phytochemicals.

68

ASSESSMENT OF MORPHOLOGICAL VARIABILITY OF

RUBBER SEEDLING

GENOTYPES IN LOW HUMID TROPICS OF NIGERIA

1*Ogidi, E. G. O., 1Okore, I. K. and 2Mbah, E. U

1 Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, P.M.B. 02 ,Akwete, Abia State, Nigeria.

2Federal College of Agriculture,Ishiagu,Ebonyi State.


ABSTRACT

Genetic variabilities serve as criteria for selection of rubber genotypes against wind damage. Morphological differences amongst seven hevea genotypes (NIG 800, NIG 801, NIG 802, NIG 803, NIG804, NIG 907, PB5/51) were investigated at the Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, Akwete Substation, Abia State in randomized complete block design (RCBD) experiment replicated three times during 2011/2012 cropping season. Results revealed that the growth parameters measured differed significantly across the rubber genotypes studied. Mean leaf length and width, barkthickness, girth diameter and leaf stalk length were higher in NIG 801 seedlings across the studied ages. Among all the traits, length of leaf stalk, number of leaf/plant, bark thickness, plant height exhibited high estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV). Broad-sense heritability was higher for leaf length, bark thickness, girth diameter, plant height, number of leaf whorl which suggested that these characters would respond to selection owing to their high genetic variability. Maximum genetic advance as per cent of mean was recorded for bark thickness with moderate value of heritability.

Keywords: Genotypes, genetic advance, Hevea brasiliensis, variability, heritability

69

Thermo-adaptability and the underlying bases for heat tolerance in wheat

germplasm

Okechukwu, E.C 1*; Agbo, C.U1; Uguru, M.I1 and Ogbonnaya, F.C2

1Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.

2Grains Research and Development Corporation, Australia


ABSTRACT

Heat tolerance evaluation trial of one hundred and eighty-nine heat tolerant wheat genotypes was conducted in both early (heat favourable condition) and late (heat stressed condition) sowing seasons in Tel-hadya, Aleppo, Syria for two years (2010 to 2012).The data obtained were subjected to restricted maximum likelihood (REML) for generation of best linear unbiased estimates (BLUEs). The result showed that days to heading, days to maturity, grain filling duration, plant height and grain yield decreased significantly (p<0.05) in the late season when compared with the early season. The grain yield performance of the genotypes in the late season showed that most of the genotypes yielded above 1 t/ha. The grain loss due to heat stress in the late season compared to the early season was in the range of 58 to 88%. The relative heat tolerance analyses revealed ten most stable and heat tolerant genotypes in the two seasons. Among these genotypes, Gen 148 was found to be superior and the ideal genotype for high relative heat tolerance (-62%) and stable high grain yield. The correlation showed that days to heading, days to maturity, and grain filling duration correlated positively with grain yield in the early, but the reverse was the case in the late season. Plant height correlated positively with grain yield in the late season, but negatively in the early season. The result of the path analyses revealed that days to maturity and grain filling duration have positive direct influence on the grain yield, while plant height exhibited negative direct effect on the grain yield in the early season. In the late season, days to maturity had negative direct impact on the grain yield while plant height and grain filling duration showed positive direct effects on the grain yield, but the magnitude of direct contribution of grain filling duration to grain yield was greater in the early season.This suggested that early maturing and taller wheat genotypes with relatively short grain filling duration would be ideal for heat stressed conditions. Hence, days to maturity and plant height could be the bases for heat tolerance in wheat in heat stressed environments. This information could be utilized for phenotypic selection of heat tolerant genotypes and genomic mapping of the quantitative trait loci underlying heat tolerance in wheat. Keywords: wheat germplasm, grain yield, heat tolerance, bases for heat tolerance.

70

Studies on yield stability and other yield related traits in rice (Oryza

sativa L)

*Onyia, V. N1, Obi, I.U1 and Anyanwu, C.P2

1Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. 2Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of

Technology, Owerri, Imo State.


ABSTRACT

Twelve rice genotypes were evaluated over years to determine their consistency of performance and for grain yield. The research was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates. Data were collected on: plant height (cm), number of tillers/plant, number of panicles/m2, number of spikelets/panicle, number of fertile spikelets/panicle, number of days to maturity, 1000 seed weight (g) and grain yield (tons/ha). Correlations studies were carried out to determine the components that determine grain yield. Genotype-grouping technique was used to characterize the genotypes on a group basis. Significant differences ( P= 0.05) were recorded for all the agronomic traits evaluated within the two cropping seasons. Correlation studies show that number of panicles/m2, spikelet / panicle, spikelet fertility and grain weight the major determinants of yield. On the basis of the group ranking, only four (4) genotypes [WAB 56-1-FX-2, WAB 99-H-14-HB, WAB 56-39 and WAB 33-25] fell within the first group which is the group that contains those genotypes that are high yielding and very stable. This will perform well in the agro-ecological zone. The other eight (8) genotypes [WAB 32-80, WAB 35-1-FX=2, WAB 6-144-FX, WAB 56-50, WAB 56-125, WAB 99-100, ITA 150 and FAROX 16] fell outside the first group and thus will perform better in other agro-ecological zone. Based on the findings of the research, some yield determining components in rice have been established. Keywords: Oryza spps, Genotype grouping technique, correlation studies. Correlating seasons, agro-ecological zone.

71

The Use of Multiplicative and Additive models for assessing podding of

Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L) Verdc.) in Nigeria

Oseghale, E. S.

Department of Crop Science, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State,

Nigeria.

E-mail: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Statistical analyses of two way data matrix with interaction arise in many different field of research. This study applied multiplicative and additive models to evaluate the role of photoperiod in podding of ten cultivars of Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L) Verdc.) grown over three years in forest-savannah transition agro-ecological zone of Nigeria. This trial recommends the additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) model for studying and interpreting multiplicative interaction. The result showed that AMMI model gives a pod yield estimation of 12.19g/plant which fits well with the observed value of 12.97g/plant. Photoperiod, cultivar and cultivar x photoperiod were highly significant (p<0.0001) for podding at 63DAS. Photoperiod accounted for 54.9% and genotypes for 4.5% while cultivar x photoperiod accounted for 40.6% of the treatment sum of squares implying that the GxE effects were sufficiently high to mask differences among genotypes. The podding of Nsukka cultivars G4 and G5 were delayed by long days (>12 h/day). The Otukpo cultivars G1, G2 and G3 had good adaptation to wide range of photoperiods while the Ayamgba cultivars G6, G7, G8, G9, and G10 were the most stable and most adapted to photoperiod. However, little or no podding occurred at 12.26 h/day or more. Keywords: Bambara groundnut, photoperiod, AMMI, interaction.

72

Genetic transformation of a model cassava cultivar (TMS 60444)

*Ubalua1,2A. O., ENA Mbanaso1, C. N. Egesi1,Claude Fauquet2 and Nigel Taylor2.

1National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, PMB. 7006

Umuahia, Abia State. 2Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, 975 N, Warson Road, St. Louis,

Mo 63132, USA. Corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Cassava is a major staple food crop in Nigeria. Regrettably, the low protein content of cassava, vitamins, minerals, and high cyanide content is a source of concern for consumers in Nigeria. Biotechnology intervention through genetic transformation has been identified to be a powerful tool in increasing the nutritional content and reduction of cyanide content in cassava. Agrobacterium tumefaciens, a ubiquitous soil borne nature’s genetic engineer uses a highly evolved gene transfer and integration pattern that seems enhanced for efficient nuclear targeting and integration. A bacterial strain LBA 4404 containing a binary vector pB 2300 with npt11 gene as selectable marker and a green fluorescent protein (GFP) as a tracker was used for the experiments. Compared with the previously transformed sandpaper cassava cultivar, TMS 60444 tissues were more amenable to the antibiotic cefotaxime and responded optimally to tyrosine. Subsequent selection of transformed tissues with cefotaxime and paramomycin resulted in the recovery of antibiotic-resistant, GFP-expressing lines of friable embryogenic callus, from which embryos and subsequent plants were regenerated. The positive response of this cassava cultivar to Agrobacterium transformation demonstrates that TMS 60444 a model cultivar is amenable to the overtures of genetic transformation and opens up the possibilities of incorporating agronomically desirable traits for improved cassava root quality.

73

Field Disease and Morphological Reaction of White-Fleshed Cassava

Genotypes in Nigeria

U.K. Uchendu 1, 2, E. Parkes 1, O.O. Aina1, M.O. Akoroda2, P. *Kulakow1

1 International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), P.M.B 5320, Ibadan

Nigeria. 2 Department of Agronomy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author. Email: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Thirty-white fleshed cassava genotypes from diverse parents at the uniform yield trial (UYT) stage of breeding procedure were evaluated at five locations in Nigeria during 2012/2013. The locations represent the major cassava growing agroecological zones in the country. The trials were established in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications on a plot size of 6m x 5.6 m and spacing of 1m x 0.8 m to assess genotype morphological performance, Genotype x Environment interaction (G x E) and genotype response to major diseases and pest such as cassava mosaic disease (CMD), cassava bacterial blight (CBB), cassava anthracnose disease (CAD), and cassava green mite disease (CGM). Combined analysis of variance showed that Environment (E) was highly significant (P < 0.001) for all the traits evaluated. Genotypes did not differ significantly in their field reaction to CMD and CBB but showed mild CAD symptoms, with CGM as the most severe biotic stress across the tested locations. Environmental variation accounted for 53.09% of the total sum of squares for CMD; 49.53% for CBB; 59.47% for CAD and 46.06% for CGM. Ubiaja had the highest sprout (99%), and Ibadan had the lowest (83%). Vigour differ significantly across location with Highest (6.95) and lowest vigour (4.18) recorded in Ikenne and Ibadan respectively. Genotypes respond differently to biotic stress across different environments. Improved cassava genotypes showed high level tolerance to prevalent diseases and pests across Nigeria.

Keywords: White-fleshed cassava, Cassava, disease incidence, genotype x environment interaction, Nigeria.

74

Variability, Heritability, Genetic Advance and Correlation in Jatropha

curcas L.Provenances

*M. Usman, A. Usman and A.I. Yahaya

Department of Plant Science, Institute for Agricultural Research, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.

∗Corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Twenty one Jatropha curcas provenances collected from seven states of the Northwestern Nigeria were established in a provenance trial at the Institute for Agricultural Research farm, Samaru to study their variability, estimate of heritability, genetic advance as well as correlation in their morphological traits and oil content. The provenances showed highly significant variation in all the morphological traits studied and oil content except main stem height which showed significant variation at 5% level of significance only. Phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) estimates were highest for number of fruit bunch per lateral branch and number of capsules per bunch. Heritability estimates were >53% for number of capsules per lateral branch, number of branches on collar, plant height and number of lateral branches. Genetic advance (∆G) ranged from ˂1 for number of fruit bunch per lateral branch to ˂21 for plant height. Moderate to high heritability accompanied with high genetic advance for plant height and main stem height indicated additive gene action and selection for these characters would be effective. Highly significant correlation was found between plant height and main stem height (r = 0.9110), number of lateral branches and number of capsules per bunch (r = 0.7270) and between number of capsules per bunch and number of capsules per lateral branch (r = 0.8038). Significant and positive correlation was found between number of fruits bunch per lateral branch and number of capsules per bunch (r = 0.6954) and number of capsules per lateral branch (r = 0.6803).

Keywords: Jatropha curcas, provenances, provenance trial.

75

Genetic Diversity In Seed Quality Traits and Growth of Mucuna

flagelipes (ukpo) Accessions of South Eastern Nigeria

1Onyishi, G.C.,1C.O. Anaele and 2V. N. Onyia

1Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri

2Department of Crop Science,University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

ABSTRACT Fifteen accessions of Mucuna Flagelipes (Ukpo) were evaluated in 2012 and 2013 cropping seasons in the Teaching and Research farm of Federal University of Technology, Owerri, South Eastern Nigeria to estimate the extent of genetic variability existing within the accessions and to identify promising traits for selection. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The Result of the analysis shows a wide range of significant variation among the seeds. The analysis of variance and the study of the genetic component of variance indicate the existence of substantial variability and high heritability estimates (h2) in almost all the growth traits studied, suggesting the possibility of effective selection for genetic improvement of the traits. Keywords: Diversity, accessions, Mucuna flagelipes, variability and heritability.

76

MARKER ASSISTED SELECTION IN COTTON BREEDING: A

REVIEW

Yahaya, A.I*. , M. Usman, S.M. Bugaje, I.S. Usman and A. Usman

Department of Plant Science, Institute for Agricultural Research, Ahmadu Bello University Samaru Zaria- Nigeria

*Corresponding author:[email protected]

ABSTRACT

The slow pace in genetic improvement of cotton with conventional breeding programme could be mainly attributed to lack of complete knowledge on and precise manipulation of fibre productivity and quality. Cultivated cotton displays low levels of genetic diversity (narrow genetic base). Morphological and agronomical characteristics of cotton have traditionally been used to distinguish cultivars and provide useful information to users. However, the expression of the majority of these characteristics is significantly influenced by the environment thereby causing problems for consistent identification. In cotton, improved different molecular markers have been used to characterize the genome for genetic diversity. Morphological markers in cotton are few and provide the general representation of the cultivars according to their growing environments. Molecular markers are numerous and do not change with environment. Plant traits such as drought tolerance, salt tolerance or nutrient content are controlled by a complex combination of several genes. While some advocate the use of genetically modified (GM) crops with these traits, modern breeding and selection technologies such as marker assisted selection (MAS) are a much more effective tool. When evaluating the potential merits of applying MAS as a tool for genetic improvement, some of the issues that should be considered are its economic costs and benefits, its potential benefits compared with conventional breeding or with application of other biotechnologies, and the potential impact of intellectual property rights (IPRs) on the development and application of MAS.

Keywords: Marker assisted selection, cotton and molecular markers.

77

Section III

Crop Protection

78

PERFORMANCE OF SHAWAH RICE AS INFLUENCED BY

NITROGEN FERTILIZER AND WEEDING FREQUENCY

*ADEYEMI, O. R.; OLANIPEKUN, T. B.; OGUNDEJI, O. D AND ADIGBO, S. O.

Department of Plant Physiology and Crop Production, Federal University of

Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria. Corresponding Author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of fertilizer application and weeding frequency in sawah rice production system in the inland valley bottom of the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, during the wet season of 2010 and 2011. The experiment was a split plot design with four fertilizer levels (30kg N/ha, 45kg N/ha, 60kg N/ha and 90kg N/ha) as the main plot and three weeding regimes at 3 weeks after transplanting (WAT), 6 WAT and weedy check( which served as control) as sub plots. Results indicated that the four fertilizer levels did not have significant effect (p>0.05) on the plant height, chlorophyll content, panicle weight, panicle length and grain per panicle. However, total grain yield was significantly enhanced by the application of 60kg N/ha better than other rates of Nitrogen. Weeding regimes also significantly (p<0.05) affected the growth of rice with respect to the plant height as well as the chlorophyll level. Also, panicle length and grain yield were significantly (p<0.05) and adversely affected by weeding frequency. Significant differences were also observed in the interaction between fertilizer and weeding regimes. Weed biomass was significantly affected by fertilizer rates and weeding frequency. In conclusion, appplication of 60kg N/ha and weeding at 3 and 6 WAT under sawah rice production system was observed to be adequate to enhance optimum yield of lowland rice paddy. Keywords: Sawah, weeding, fertilizer.

79

NEW CROPS: UNTAPPED RESOURCES FOR AGRARIAN

TRANSFORMATION IN NIGERIA

B.A.C Agugo

Department of Agronomy, Michael Okpara University of Agiculture, Umudike.

ABSTRACT

Exploring plants and crops for improving human lives and fortunes is continuous process in human history though relegated to a trial and error activity in Nigeria. Crops offer valuable renewable products and services and therefore strategically vital to welfare of man as sources of food, feed, fuel, fiber, fodder, fragrance, pharmacological resources and numerous beneficial environmental effects. In spite of the immense land resource with ecological diversity for growing a wide range of crops from semi-temperate to semi-desert species, only a handful of established crop enterprises exist in Nigeria thereby effectively constraining rural prosperity. The present effort to transform the agrarian sector will hardly be achieved without a concerted proactive program to expand the nation’s crop resource base through the development of and use of new or alternative crops and products. The paper defines ‘new crops’, identifies a number of new crops enterprises that methodically exploited in appropriate agro-ecologies of Nigeria can expand sources of incomes and markets, hedge risks, increase exports and new industries based on renewable resources., decrease imports, improve human and livestock diets and medications. Further, new crops can contribute to the utilization of marginal lands, helps in fighting environmental problems such as soil degradation and climate change while having a huge job generation capacity; it will rapidly spur economic growth and development. Given the long-term initial investment needed for new-crop development, high risk, and the fact that it may not yield benefits to originators, the private sector are reluctant to put resources into this crucial project, the paper argues for the establishment of a federal funded corporate entity focused on the introduction, development and commercialization of new crops and products in Nigeria and concludes that as renewable sources of wealth new crops research is a wise and long overdue economic investment in the future.

80

Effect of Organic Mulching Materials on Insect Pests of Sugarcane at

Southern Guinea Savannah of Nigeria

1M. Ahmed, 2K. P. Baiyeri and 2B. C. Echezona 1Department of Crop Production, College of Agriculture, Mokwa. Niger

state 2Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Nigeria.

Corresponding Author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Insect Pests are the most troublesome organism causing damage to agricultural crops production annually throughout the world. Groundnut shell and rice husk were evaluated to determine the insect pest attack on Bida local and NCS 008 sugarcane field. The experiment was conducted in 2010 and 2011 at National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI) Badeggi. Organic mulch materials were evaluated at the rate of 0, 20 and 40 t ha-1 replicated three times. Percentage of termite attack, dead heart, smutted cane and stem borer were studied. The percentage of termites attacked on sugarcane was significant (p<0.05) for plant and ratoon crops in 2010 and 2011. The percentage of plants that were attacked at ratoon crops cycle were more than the percentage of plant that were attacked during plant crop cycle. Organic material significantly (p<0.05) increased the activities of termite attacked on sugarcane plant. Groundnut shell influences the attacked of insect pest more than the rice husk. The stem borer attacked was more in plant crops than ratoon crops in both years. Mulched with 40 t ha-1 of groundnut shell and rice husk increased the percentage of stem borer attack during the production. Bida local had the highest percentage of plant with dead heart symptom. NCS 008 showed no dead heart attack. Plots mulched with 20 and 40 t ha-1 did not showed dead heart attack. However, 0 t ha-1 had the highest percentage of dead heart occurrence on the field for plant crop. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the incidence of smut with NCS 008 during the plant crop in both year. Bida local recorded smut incidence at plant and ratoon crops in 2010 and 2011. The attack of smut on Bida local was more at ratoon than plant crops. Organic material had no significant effect on the percentage of smut. The application of organic mulch rate significantly reduced the smut incidence. Keywords: Termites, dead heart, smut, stem borer, groundnut shell and rice husk.

81

INHIBITORY EFFECT OF MITRACARPUS VILLOSUS LEAF

EXTRACT ON EGG HATCH OF MELOIDOGYNE INCOGNITA AT

DIFFERENT CONCENTRATIONS

*L.Y.Bello1, A. I, Asorose1, S. A, Saidu1, R. O. Oyewale1, A. S. Isah2

1Department of Crop Production, School of Agriculture and Agricultural

Technology, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria.

2Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.

* Corresponding Author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to evaluate the nematicidal potential of Mitracarpus villosus in controlling the egg hatch and mortality of rook-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita). Five different concentrations of crude leaf extract of M. villosus in distilled water were replicated four times in a completely randomized design (CRD). Significant (p≤0.05) differences were observed among the treatments on egg hatch and larva mortality from 6 – 96 hours of observation, but there was no significant difference between S1 (100%) and S2 (50%) concentration at 3hours.

Keywords: Meloidogyne incognita, Mitracarpus villosus, nematicidal potential.

82

INSECTICIDAL EFFECT OF EUCALYPTUS GLOBULES AND

AZADIRACHTA INDICA LEAVES AGAINST CALLOSOBRUCHUS

MUCULATUS IN STORED COWPEA (VIGNA UNGUICULATA)

*L. Y. Bello1, A. Saidu1, R. O. Oyewale1, A. S. Isah2 and J. Amao1

1. Department of Crop Production, School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Federal University of Technology Minna, Niger State. 2. Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello

University, Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria

* Corresponding Author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

The insecticidal potentials of Eucalyptus globules and Azadirachita indica were determined against Callosobruchus muculatus on cowpea (Vigna

unguiculata) storage. Cowpea grains from two different varieties (“Kananado” and “Drum”) were used. Azadirachita indica, Eucalyptus

globules and their combination were the treatments used. The treatments were applied on the grain cowpea and stored in jute bags for ten weeks. The experiment was laid out in complete randomized design (CRD) format. Data were collected fortnightly on grain weight, weight of undamaged and damaged grains, number of weevils and average grain hole per seed. A significant reduction in the potency of these botanicals was found at eight to ten weeks after storage. However, complementary application of both botanicals (combination of Eucalyptus globules and Azadirachita indica) was found to reduce the population of cowpea weevil than the individual botanicals. Keywords: Grain cowpea, Callosobruchus muculatus, Azadirachita indica, Eucalyptus globules.

83

Control Strategy of Helicoverpa armigera, Hubner (Lepidoptera:

Noctuidae) population on early maturing pigeonpea using formulated

neem seed oil at different rates and frequencies in humid environment,

of Imo State, Nigeria

1 * Dialoke S. A and Emosairue, S.O2.

1.Department of Crop Science and Technology, (School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology), Federal University of Technology, PMB 1526,

Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.

2.Department of Agronomy, Delta State University, Abraka, Asaba Campus, Delta State, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT

The population of pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera, Hubner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) was monitored under control with formulated neem seed oil (F-NSO) and synthetic pyrethroid (cypermethrin). The field study was conducted at the Postgraduate Teaching and Research Farm, Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri Imo State beginning from April 2009, repeated in 2010 and July 2010. The experiment was laid out in 3 x 5 factorial comprising three rates of neem seed oil, 2 ml (4.2l ha-1), 4 ml (8.3l ha-1), 6 ml (12.5l ha-1) with 0ml (0l ha-1), and synthetic pyrethroid (cypermethrin) 0.72 ml (1.5l ha-1) as check plots and three intervals of application: once a week, once in two weeks, and once in three weeks. Results from control measures, showed that application of F-NSO at higher dosage rate (12.5l ha-1) and at four regime spraying intervals of once a week significantly (p<0.05) reduced the population of pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera. In the humid environment of Owerri in South Eastern Nigeria, application of higher dosage rate (12 l ha-1) of formulated neem seed oil (F-NSO) once a week and at four spraying intervals should be incorporated into pigeonpea H. armigera Integrated Pest Management Programmes (IPM).

Keywords: pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera, monitored, formulated, neem seed oil, synthetic pyrethroid.

84

Influence of planting dates and plant densities on the population of

flower pests of early maturing pigeonpea cultivar in Rainforest Zone of

South Eastern, Nigeria

*DIALOKE S. A1, OJIAKO F.O1, PETER-ONOH, C.A1, BOSAH B.O2

and AKALAZU J.N3

1. Department of Crop Science and Technology, (School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology), Federal University of Technology, PMB 1526,

Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. 2. Department of Agronomy, Delta State University, Abraka.

3. Department of plant Science and Biotechnology, Imo State University, Owerri.


ABSTRACT

Field trial was carried out at the Postgraduate Teaching and Research Farm, Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri Imo State in April, July and October 2009 and repeated in 2010. The early maturing pigeonpea cultivar (ICPL 84023) was evaluated to ascertain the extent of protection to which plant density and date of planting will have on the population of blister beetles (Mylabris pustulata Thunberg (Coleoptera: Meloidae) and flower beetles (Aulacophora vinula Eric. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Experiment was laid out in a 3 x 4 factorial and treatments consisted of four plant populations namely: 190,474 plants ha-1, 125,000 plants ha-1, and 80,000 plants ha-1, 55,556 plants ha-1 with three planting dates, April, July, and October. The result showed high population of M. pustulata and A. vinula on higher plant densities than at lower plant densities. Also April planting season recorded very high population of the M. pustulata and A. vinula on pigeonpea while there was absence of both beetles during July and October planting seasons. Appropriate plant densities and time of sowing may be an important integrated management of M. pustulata and A. vinula population in this locality.

Keywords: Mylabris pustulata, Aulacophora vinula, population, planting dates, plant density.

85

Effect of Cowpea Intra-row Spacing and Weed Control on the Growth

and Yield of Sesame Cultivars in Bauchi, Nigeria

1*Ekwere, E.O. and 2Auwalu, B.M.

1Cross River Basin Development Authority, Calabar,

2Department of Agronomy, Bayero University, P.M.B. 3011, Kano, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author: [email protected] ABSTRACT Field experiments were conducted simultaneously in the northern Guinea savannah, at the Research Farm of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University and the Bauchi State Agricultural Development Programme, Experimental farms, both situated at latitude 100 171N, longitude 90491E and 609m above sea level. The mean annual rainfall of 1,424.9mm occurred in April to October. The trails investigated the effects of intra-row spacing on the growth and yield characters of cowpea-sesame intercrop, and examined the critical period of weed management requirement. The intra-row spacing of 20,30 and 40cm with a fixed inter-row spacing of 75cm and three weed control levels of zero, one and two- weeding, were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Sesame plant height at 6 and 9 weeks after sowing were significantly different (p<0.05) at two weeding operations, and also at 30 and 40cm intra-row spacing over 20cm. Capsule number per plant, 100-seed weight, capsule yield and grain yield were higher for one and two-weeding operations than for zero-weed control. When the two locations were combined yield characters were higher at 40cm than 20cm intra-row spacing while capsule and grain yields were more at 20cm than other intra-row spacing, which were similar when compared. Sowing cowpea with one and two hoe weeding resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) taller plants height, than zero weed control at six weeks after sowing, while at nine weeks after sowing plant height was significantly taller (p< 0.01) at 40cm intra-row spacing than 20 and 30cm. Weed dry matter at zero-weed control was significantly higher (p <0.01) than at one and two weeding operations. As a result, crop vigour was significantly lower (P < 0.01) at zero weed control, than at one and two-weeding operations. Therefore, the interaction suggests that growing cowpea-sesame, at 20cm intra-row spacing with one hoe-weeding operation is adequate. Keywords: Spacing, Intra-row, Weeding,Vigour, Cowpea, Sesame.

86

Seed Transmission of Cowpea Viruses

1*Ekwere, E.O., 2Ekwere, A.U. I and 3Ekwere, U.A.

1Cross River Basin Development Authority, Calabar, 2Caly. 1. nig.ent. Ibadan.

3 National Biotechnology Development Agency, Lugbe, Abuja.


ABSTRACT

A study was undertaken to identify the viruses present in commercial cowpea seedlots (local and improved cowpea varieties) and compare their rates of seed transmission and assess the multiplication rates in subsequent generations. A total of 222 cowpea seedlings raised in the glass house of I.A.R &T, Moor plantation Ibadan, were obtained from Bodija market, Ibadan. About 108 leaf samples with viral symptoms were collected and assayed serologically in three different tests using agar gel double diffusion test and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The six tramsmitted viruses were southern been mosaic (SBMV)-sobemovirus, cowpea mottle (CMeV)-carmovirus and cowpea yellow mosaic (CYMV)-comovirus, for the agar gel test and cucumber mosaic (CMV)- cucumovirus for ELISA. The third test is also ELISA for the presence of potyviruses which are black eye cowpea mosaic (BICMV) and cowpea aphid borne (CABMV). Seedborne viruses were detected in 14 out of 108 of the symptomatic plant samples. The viruses detected and the percent incidences were: BICMV 1.3 to 25% (20), CMV 5.26 to 6.25$ (20), SBMV 1.85% (108). Neither CBMV nor CMeV was detected, CYMV was also not detected. Also, leaf samples were collected and tested for seed transmission from parent to offspring by ELISA-detectable seedborne viruses, for potyvirus (BICMV & CABMV) from progeny (F1) of nine cultivars that produces seed and was resown out of the fourteen cowpea varieties. Only BICMV was transmitted through seed at 55.56% (5/9) frequency. No virus was detected in TVU 57 and Oloyin varieties. Keywords: Seedborne virus, transmission, cowpea, offspring, Serology Assay and ELISA

87

Studies on Nanobiotechnology Control of Postharvest Rot in Yam

(Dioscorea rotundata) Tuber

*Eze, S. C., S. I. Umeh, E. I. Eze and K. I. Ugwuoke

Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka

*Corresponding author: [email protected] ABSTRACT One of the major problems facing all year round utilization of yam (Dioscorea spp) is postharvest rot. In vitro and in vivo experiments were, therefore, conducted at the plant pathology laboratory of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka to evaluate the bioactivity of nanoparticles of silver and neem (silverneem) solution on some organisms that cause yam rot. In the in vitro study, the organisms were isolated and identified as Fusarium

moniliforme and Lasiodiplodia theobromae. The organisms were cultured in sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA). Each of the agar plates was divided into four sections using a marker. With a cork borer of diameter 8 mm, holes were made at the centre of each of the four sections. Then, 0.05ml silverneem solution was aseptically introduced into the holes starting from the lowest to the highest concentrations. The plates were incubated at 350C for 48 hrs and the zones of inhibition were determined. In the in vivo study, yam slices, each weighing approximately 12.6 g was dipped into each level of silverneem solution for 3 minutes and thereafter inserted into the petri dishes containing each of the organisms. The minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) of the silverneem which inhibited the mycelia growth of Fusarium moniliforme was 0.8 mg/ml while the MIC of the silverneem for Lasiodiplodia theobromae was 0.5 mg/ml. Fresh yam tubers treated with silverneem solution had no mould or mycilia growth after 48 hours but the untreated tubers were covered with mould. However, further research is recommended to determine the optimum inhibition concentration of silverneem for different rot causing organisms.

Keywords: Nanobiotechnology, Silver, Neem (Azadiractha indica), yam rot, Postharvest

88

Phytotoxin Evaluation of Virulent Isolate of Glomerella cingulata

*Eziashi E .I. and Oruade-Dimaro E.A

Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research [NIFOR], Plant Pathology Division,

P.M.B 1030 Benin City. Edo State. Nigeria


Phytotoxin evaluation of virulent isolate of Glomerella cingulata has been studied. The pathogenic isolate of G. cingulata was isolated from diseased Raphia palm seeding. The isolate was harvested after 60 days of static incubation at 28 ºC from potato dextrose broth [PDB] of 500 ml. It was lyophilized from the initial 500 ml to 50 ml respectively. Toxicity of G.

cingulata isolate was tested on Raphia hookeri, date, oil and coconut palm seedlings. It caused necrosis when spotted on leaflets 3 weeks after inoculation. The degree of necrosis on leaflets at 3rd and 4th leaf stages was higher on Raphia with 100 and 70% disease incidence. This is followed by coconut palm with 80 and 70%, oil palm with 60 and 50% and date palm with 40 and 40% respectively. The isolate of G cingulata from diseased Raphia palm seedling recorded the highest necrotic action. The result indicates that, the phytototoxin evaluation was effective. This result could be exploited in screening for virulent isolates.

Keywords: Toxin, Necrosis, Lyophilization, Screening.

89

Assessment of Nukkai River Basin, Jalingo for organic food production

*MICHAEL, G. C. and B. Aliyu Department of Agronomy, Taraba State University, Jalingo, Nigeria


ABSTRACT

Risks associated with using synthetic agrochemicals including mineral fertilizers in crop production have led to the desire for safer food. Organic crop production by small scale farmers is a key step towards effective and efficient way in securing the safety of food consumed at the household level as well as developing income generating potential. A survey of Nukkai river basin was carried out in 2010 to ascertain the types of fertilizers, sources of organic manure, level of usage, crops, land area involved and factors that determine the use of organic manure, as well as the effect on weed control. A proportional sampling technique and structured questionnaires were used to sample 345 farmers in upper nukkai (112), lower nukkai (27), upper kofai (61) and lower Kofai (145) basins of the river. Descriptive statistics and chi square were used to analyse the data collected. Results showed that about 46.2, 41.4 and 12.3% of the farmers sampled use mineral, organic and both fertilizers, respectively on their farms. Sheep (27.5%), poultry (25.9%), cattle (22.8%) and goat (21.7%) were the major sources of manure. Majority (66.7%) of the small scale farmers (0.25 acre) applied 51-150 kg of manure per season. Higher percentage of the farmers cultivating okro (72.7%), onion (69.2%) and sugarcane (37.5 %) used organic manure on their farms. Gender, number of years of cultivation, tillage structure, weeding frequency and pest attack did not significantly (P>0.05) influence decision on the usage, sources and quantity of organic manure in use. However, these parameters were significantly (P<0.05) influenced by age, farm size, location and government aid. The potential for organic crop production in nukkai river basin is high, especially for vegetables. Keywords: Nukkai river basin, crop farming, fertilizer use.

90

Weed control and yield of sweet corn (Zea mays (L.) var.

Saccharata)/egusi melon (Colocynthis citrullus (L.) O. Kitz) intercrop as

influenced by plant population of egusi melon in the humid tropics

C. O. *Muoneke, E .U. Mbah, and U. Orji

Department of Agronomy, College of Crop and Soil Sciences,

Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State


ABSTRACT

Rainfed field experiment was conducted in 2006 and repeated in 2007 at the Department of Agronomy, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria to determine the optimum plant population of egusi melon for weed control and yield of the component crops in sweet corn and egusi melon intercrop. The treatment factors were cropping systems (sole and intercrop), egusi melon plant population (0; 10,000 and 20,000 plants/ha) and weeding frequency (zero weeding, one weeding at 3 weeks after planting (WAP) and two weeding at 3 and 8 WAP). The treatments were fitted in a 2 x 3 x 3 factorial. There were three replications. The results showed that intercropping had significant effect on growth, yield and yield components of sweet corn and egusi melon in both cropping seasons. Higher egusi melon plant population had no significant effect on sweet corn grain yield but gave better egusi melon seed yield. Weeding frequency significantly (P<0.05) increased sweet corn grain and egusi melon seed yields, as well as, showed better biological advantage in the intercrop relative to sole crops. The trend was the same in both cropping seasons. Intercropping sweet corn with egusi melon at 20,000 plants/ha with one manual weeding at 3 WAP or 2 manual weeding regime at 3 and 8 WAP was more effective in controlling weeds than the other treatments. The land equivalent ratios in the intercropping were all above unity, an index indicating that intercropping had better yield advantage than sole crops of the component crops.

Keywords: sweet corn, egusi melon, plant population, weeding frequency, grain yield.

91

INTEGRATED WEED MANAGEMENT ON CASSAVA (Manihot esculenta

CRANTZ) USING A PRE-EMERGENCE HERBICIDE, MELON

INTERCROP AND HANDWEEDING IN CALABAR, SOUTHEASTERN

NIGERIA

F.A. *Nwagwu, 1 E.O. Osai,1 I.A. Udo1 and P.M. Ekara2

1Department of Crop Science, University of Calabar, Calabar.

2Agric. Department, Odukpani Local Government Area, Cross River State.


ABSTRACT

Field experiments were conducted in 2009 and 2010 at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Calabar, Southeastern Nigeria, to determine the effectiveness of fitstra® (a proprietary mixture of atrazine and metolachlor), melon crop and hand-weeding on weed control and the performance of cassava (Manihot

esculenta Crantz). The treatments were no weeding, melon+no weeding, fitsextra applied pre-emergent, melon+fitsextra, handweeding once, twice and three times, respectively), melon+handweeding once or twice, fitsextra+handweeding once or twice and melon+fisextra+handweeding once. The twelve treatments were laid out in a randomized complete block design and replicated three times. The unweeded check plots maintained the highest weed density and weed biomass from 12 weeks after planting (WAP), followed by the plot treated with fitsextra only. Weed management methods has significant effects on weed density, weed biomass and cassava performance. Irrespective of method adopted, weeding depressed weed density by 133.87% and 119.45% in 2009 and 2010 respectively, and weed biomass by 813.54% and 526.1% within the same period, compared to the unweeded checks. Averaged over both years, cassava fresh tuber yield was in the order handweeding thrice (10.45t/ha)>fitsextra+hadweeding twice (9.87t/ha)>melon+handweeding twice (7.73t/ha) >fitsextra+handweeding once (6.23t/ha)>handweeding twice (5.36t/ha)> melon+fitsextra+handweeding once (5.20t/ha)>handweeding once (4.81t/ha)>melon+handweeding once (4.60t/ha)>melon+fitsextra (3.13t/ha)>fitsextra only (1.43t/ha)>no weeding (0.81t/ha)>melon+no weeding (0.68 t/ha). Collectively, the results indicated that three handweedings were necessary to optimize the yield of cassava in Calabar, but the integration of melon or fitsextra can effectively replace the first hand weeding.

92

COMPARATIVE EFFECTS OF NEEM (AZADIRACHTA INDICA)

EXTRACTS AND LAMBDACYHALOTHRIN IN THE CONTROL

OF THE ROOT KNOT NEMATODE (MELOIDOGYNE INCOGNITA)

ON CELOSIA ARGENTEA

Okafor, S. A.* and Fadina, O.O.

Department of Crop Protection and Environmental Biology, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria


ABSTRACT

In order to compare the effects of Lambdacyhalothrin, a synthetic pyrethriod and neem extracts (Azadirachta indica) in the control of the root knot nematode of Celosia argentea, two weeks old plants of C. argentea were inoculated with 7,000 eggs of Meloidogyne incognita. 7 days after inoculation, the plants were treated with two concentrations of Lambdacyhalothrin at 6,000ppm and 3,000ppm and neem oil extract at 2.14 ml/kg and 4.28ml/kg. Untreated nematode-inoculated C. argentea plants served as negative control while uninoculated C. argentea plants served as positive control. Three weeks after inoculation and subsequently till the eight week, data were collected on growth parameters such as stem height, number of leaves and yield parameters such as fresh shoot weight, fresh root weight, and root galling indices. There were significant differences between the untreated-nematode inoculated plants and all the other treatments for both the growth and yield parameters except the mean galling indices. Although neem oil at 2.14 mls/kg of soil consistently gave the highest means for leaf number, there were no significant differences between the means for stem height even though untreated-nematode inoculated plants had the lowest values. There was also no significant difference between Lambdacyhalothrin-treated plants at both 6000ppm and 3000ppm for all the parameters considered. Thus, neem oil at 2.14 mls/kg of soil is recommended as an alternative for Lambdacyhalothrin at 6000ppm and 3000ppm concentrations in the control of root knot nematode of Celosia argentea since the leaf is the most important part and in view of its environmental friendliness. Keywords: Neem extracts, Lambdacyhalothrin, Meloidogyne incognita, Celosia argentea,

93

EVALUATION OF THREE (3) TOMATO VARIETIES (Lycopersicon

esculentm) FOR SUSCEPTIBILITY TO ROOT-KNOT NEMATODE

(Meloidogyne spp) IN ABAKALIKI, EBONYI STATE

*Okolo, C.C1,3 ., Ezeogbuka, Ebuka2., Nwite, J.N3., Agu, C.M4., Oga, I.O5

and Nweke, P.E5

1Department of Soil Science, University of Nigeria Nsukka. 2Department of Crop Science and Landscape Management, Ebonyi State

University, Abakaliki. 3Department of Soil Science and Environmental Management, Ebonyi State

University, Abakaliki. 4Department of Crop Science, Federal University of Technology Owerri.

5Department of Agricultural Technology, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana, Afikpo.


ABSTRACT

Three (3) tomato (Lycopersicon esculentm) varieties (UTC Jos, Abakaliki Local and Tiv Local) were evaluated for susceptibility/resistance against root-knot nematode attack (Meloidogyne spp) at the experimental research and teaching farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, Ebonyi State University. The study was carried out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) replicated four (4) times. Results showed that UTC Jos was most susceptible to the root-knot nematode attack, as it recorded the greatest number of galls. Next in susceptibility to the nematode attack was Tiv Local. The Abakaliki Local was the least affected by the nematode. Reduction in tomato fruit yield was highest on UTC Jos which was most affected by the nematode. The same was true for chlorotic and wilting symptoms associated with the root-knot nematode attack. Keywords: Lycopersicon esculentm, Meloidogyne spp, UTC Jos, Abakaliki Local, Tiv Local, tomato fruit yield and Abakaliki

94

EVALUATION OF CARBOFURAN 5G AND DIMETHOATE 40 EC

FOR THE CONTROL OF MAJOR INSECT PESTS OF OKRA

(Abelmoschus esculentus (L) Moench

Omeje T.E.*and Ezema R.A.

Enugu State College of Agriculture and Agro-Entrepreneurship, Iwollo


ABSTRACT The beetles, Podagrica spp, leaf hopper, Empoasca spp, Cotton stainer, Dysdercus spp, Coreid bugs, Anoploenemis curvipes and Mirperus spp, Tobacco white flies, Bemisia tabaci and Variegated grass hopper, Zonocerus veriegatus (L) are the most destructive insect pests of okra at Nsukka, Nigeria, with Podagrica spp and Dysdercus spp being the predominant species. Field trial was carried out with Dimethoate 40 E.C. ‘Rogor 40 EC) and carbofuran 5G (Furadan 5G) to test the relative efficacy of the two insecticides in controlling the major insect pests of okra. There were no significant differences in the stand counts at 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after planting (DAP) and also at harvest both in the treated plots and untreated plots. Non-significant effects were also recorded in the number of beetles taken before insecticides were applied at (14 and 25 DAP), fresh pod weight, and dry pod weight. However, significant differences were observed in the number of insect pests taken after spray and application at 35 DAP and during flowering period at 42 DAP. Similarly, significant difference was detected in the quality of harvested pods with the best quality in carbofuran treated plots and least quality in untreated plots. Plants infected by okra mosaic virus were lowest in the carbofuran treated plots and highest in untreated plots. Dimethoate treated plots produced pods with the best seed viability. In general, all the treated plots performed better than untreated plots in controlling insect pests and disease attack. Keywords: Okro, insect pests control, dimethoate, carbofuran.

95

THE ANTIFUNGAL AND NEMATICIDAL POTENTIALS OF

Vernonia amygdalina ON COWPEA (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp)

Onoja,C.U.* and Fadina, O.O.

Department of Crop Protection and Environmental Biology, University of Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT

Vernonia amygdalina is a herbaceous plant that grows in the wild and is widely cultivated as food crop in sub-Saharan Africa. The study evaluated its fungicidal and nematicidal potentials. Isolates of Macrophomina

phaseolina were obtained from germinating cowpea variety IT84S-2246-4 growing on naturally infested soil at screen house in IITA, Ibadan, Nigeria (7o 261 N, 3o 541 E) and then subcultured to achieve pure culture, while inoculum of the root knot nematode, Meloidogyne sp. was obtained from infested Celosia sp. plants through standard pathological and nematological procedures respectively. Aqueous and ethanol extracts of V. amygdalina at various concentrations of 2.5%, 5% and 10% were prepared and tested in-vitro against Macrophomina phaseolina and the root knot nematode Meloidogyne sp. At incubation of 27.5oC-30oC for 7-days, radial growth of the plated M. phaseolina was measured at 24-hour intervals and percentage fungitoxicity calculated, while Meloidogyne sp. egg hatch and 2nd juvenile stage mortality was observed at 24-hour intervals for a 10-day period. Fungitoxicity tests showed aqueous extracts of 5% and 10% concentration significantly inhibited mycelia growth (32.08% and 34.77% respectively) when compared with the control. Ethanol extracts exhibited 100% fungicidal activity. Furthermore, egg hatch by Meloidogyne sp. was completely inhibited by both extracts preparation at 2.5% and 5% concentrations while 100% mortality of Meloidogyne sp. juveniles was observed on the fifth day post-treatment. Vernonia amygdalina was identified as a natural, readily available and cheap source of fungicide and nematicide. It is recommended for control of charcoal rot infection and Meloidogyne sp. infestation of cowpea. Keywords: Natural pesticides, cowpea, Vernonia amygdalina,

Macrophomina phaseolina, Meloidogyne sp.

96

EFFECT OF POULTRY MANURE ON INCIDENCE AND

SEVERITY OF FOLIAR DISEASES AND WEED OF Telfairia

occidentalis INTERCROPPED WITH CASSAVA AND MAIZE

O. J. Orji, I. I. *Ibeawuchi, and O. P. Obilo

Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology

P.M.B. 1526, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT

Fluted pumpkin is dominantly grown in mixtures and sometimes sole in Southeastern Nigeria. However the yield and quality of Telfairia in these mixtures are unknown. The study investigated the effect of different rates of poultry manure and intercropping on foliar disease severity and weed incidence of Telfairia occidentalis. The field was laid out in a 4 x 5 factorial arrangement fitted into a randomized complete block design and replicated three times. The treatments consisted of five levels of organic manure (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10) t/ha which were applied on four intercrop combinations (Telfairia-sole; Telfairia and cassava; Telfairia and maize; Telfairia, cassava and maize). The parameters assessed were leaf spot disease, leaf blight disease and weed incidence. The result showed that the intercrop had a significant effect on disease and weed incidence where Telfairia-sole recorded the highest foliar disease with values of 2.73, 2.80, 3.40 for leaf spot; 2.60, 2.93, 3.26 for leaf blight; and 31.47, 69.70, 123.5 for weed incidence at 4, 8 and 12 weeks after emergence (WAE). Poultry manure recorded no significant effect on leaf spot disease and weed incidence at 4 and 8 WAE but recorded a significant effect on leaf spot disease with the highest value of 2.92 at poultry manure rate of 0.0 t/ha at 12 WAE. The interaction recorded no significant effect.

Keywords: Disease severity, weed incidence, poultry manure, intercropping.

97

ENDANGERED INDIGENOUS RESILIENT CROPS: POTENTIAL

AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT FOR SUSTAINED

PRODUCTIVITY AND FOOD SECURITY

*1SAMBO, B.E. and 2AYODELE, J.T.

1Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Crop Production, Federal University Dutse, P.M.B.7156, Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria.

2Department of Agric. Extension & Management, Federal College of Forestry Mechanization, P.M.B.2273, Afaka, Kaduna, Nigeria.

* Corresponding author e-mail: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Globally, agriculture is critical for food security and source of livelihood for approximately 500 million households. The small hold farmers provide food for about 70% of the world population today. The impact that climate change is predicted to have on farming is, thus, a major threat to world food security. It is against this background that this work takes a retrospective swipe to highlight the imperative need to exploit the adaptive resilient qualities offered by the rich bio-diverse indigenous crops of the Nigerian cum African agricultural landscape towards meeting the challenges posed by climate change, and the consequent loss of bio-diversity and declining crop productivity, amidst the global food crisis. It is reported that most “native”/indigenous African crops such as Acha (Digitaria exilis), Benniseed (Sesanum indicum, L.), Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.), indigenous Millet (Pennisetum typhoideum), Guinea corn (Sorghum bicolor) and the likes, have low water demands; as such tolerate drought stress. They grow productively on soils inherently low in fertility and their nutrients demand could be met locally through low cost organic sources. These crops are well able to adapt and cope with stress factors in the region; with increased temperature and reduced rainfall, and thus, offer a potential in the fight against climate change. The combined threat of disease, climate change and loss of biodiversity means that food shortages are inevitable and this situation could escalate as human population increases globally. The fear is that many useful indigenous/wild species could disappear - leaving rural communities less resilient and vulnerable to changing weather patterns. The adaptation of agriculture to climate change would depend on the conservation and introduction of crop wild relatives from the rich “native”/indigenous bio-diverse stocks. This could hold the key for developing climate-proof crops.

Keywords: Agriculture, climate change, resilient bio-diversity, food sustainability

98

Response of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) to salinity and arbuscular

mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation

I. A. *Udo1, and A. Ibrahim2

1Department of Crop Science, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River

State .

2Department of Soil Science, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT A greenhouse experiment was carried out to evaluate the interactive effect of salinity and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on the growth and yield of an improved okra cultivar “LD 88”. Three levels of salinity (0.08, 2.00 and 4.00 ds/m) were combined in a factorial fashion with four species of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (Glomus deserticola, G. clarum, G. mosseae

and Gigaspora gigantea) plus an uninoculated control. Plants were grown to full maturity. The results obtained showed that increase in the salinity level significantly (P<0.05) reduced growth, dry matter accumulation and pod yield of okra. However, mycorrhizal inoculation reduced the adverse effects of salinity on the performance of okra compared with the non-mycorrhizal plants. The arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi species differed in their ability to ameliorate the salt stress. G. mosseae and G. deserticola were the most efficient species. Fresh pod weight was enhanced by 83.17%, 68.79%, 64.57% and 84.85% with G. deserticola, Gi. gigantea, G. clarum and G. mosseae inoculation at 4.00ds/m, respectively compared with the uninoculated plants .Further screening of some AMF species could boost okra production in some locations with salinity problem.

99

Evaluation of some advanced cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) cultivars to

infection by Root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) Race I

I. A *Udo, M. A. Ittah, A. E. Uko and O. M. Inam

Department of Crop Science, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State


ABSTRACT A greenhouse trial was conducted to evaluate the response of 38 IITA advanced cowpea cultivars to infection by an indigenous root-knot nematode species (Meloidogyne incognita). The experiment was a completely randomized design with three replications. The cowpea cultivars constituted the treatments. Five thousand eggs of the nematode species were inoculated per plant, while the unioculated plants served as the control. Data were collected on number of galls, root gall index (0-5 rating scale), number of egg masses, plant dry weight, number of pods, weight of pod/plant, number of seeds per pod, number of seeds per plant and weight of seeds per plant. Results showed that 4 cultivars were rated susceptible (GI= 4.00 – 4.45), 11 were moderately susceptible (GI = 2.50 – 3.99), one cultivar was moderately resistant (GI= 2.10- 2.49), 13 cultivars were resistant (GI <2.00) and one cultivar was immune (GI=0.00). Nematode inoculation severely reduced plant growth, biomass, yield indices and yield in some of the cultivars. Some cultivars that were rated susceptible and moderately susceptible gave high yield (IT93K452-1, IT98K-589-2 and IT99K-409-8) despite nematode inoculation and were ranked tolerant. Cultivars IT99k-429-2, IT00K-1263, IT97K-568-18, IT98K-476-8 and IT89KD-288 rated immune and resistant with marginal yield reduction could be used by plant breeders in a breeding programme for root-knot resistance in cowpea.

100

Pathogenicity of Meloidogyne incognita race I on tomato as influenced

by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Mucuna spp soil

amendment

I.A. Udo1*, M. I. Uguru2 and R. O. Ogbuji2

1Department of Crop Science, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River

State, Nigeria. 2Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu state, Nigeria.

* Corresponding author: [email protected] ABSTRACT A greenhouse trial was carried out to assess the efficacy of five arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) species and five Mucuna spp soil amendment singly and combined in the management of Meloidogyne incognita race 1 on tomato. The experiment was a 6 x6 factorial laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. The treatments involved the combination of five AMF (Glomus etunicatum, G. mosseae, G. clarum,

G. deserticola and Gigaspora gigantea) and five Mucuna spp (M. pruriens

utilis, M. ghana M. cochichinensis M. jaspaeda and M. pruriens IR2). For the respective factors, pots without Mucuna amendment or not inoculated with AMF served as the control. The pots were amended with fresh vines and leaf of Mucuna at the rate of 10t/ha. The tomato seedlings were inoculated with 5,000 eggs of M. incognita per plant. The plants were grown to full maturity. The Mucuna spp differed in their mineral contents. M. jaspaeda and M. ghana had the highest nitrogen (N) content (>4%) and the least C: N ratio (< 9.00). The combination of the two control agents significantly (P< 0.05) inhibited root galling and egg production more than single application or the control. M. jaspaeda and in combination with most of the AMF species changed the susceptibility of the tomato cv Roma VF GI=5.00 to GI = 2.00. G. mosseae and G. gigantea were the best. Shoot growth, root and shoot dry matter accumulation and fresh fruit yield were enhanced with the combination of the two factors compared with the control. M. jaspaeda and M. ghana were the most potent Mucuna spp in gall and egg mass inhibition, growth and yield enhancement when combined with most of the AMF species.

101

EFFECT OF REDUCE RATES OF PRIMEXTRA AND TWO

SOWING DENSITIES OF PUMPKIN (Curcubita pepo) ON WEED

CONTROL, GROWTH AND YIELD OF COCOYAM (Xanthosoma

sagitifolium) in Uyo .

*Udosen, U. U1., Udom, G. N1., Ndon, B. A1. and Ekpo, T. U. U2.

1Department of Crop Science, University of Uyo, Uyo 2College of Education, Afaha Nsit, Akwa Ibom State.


ABSTRACT

Experiments were conducted at the University of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm, during 2008 and 2009 seasons, to evaluate the effects of reduced rates of primextra and two sowing densities of pumpkin on the growth and yield of cocoyam. Six treatments, primextra 1.5 and 3.0 kg ai/ha, pumpkin 20,000 and 30,000 plants/ha; weed free and unweeded check were used in a randomised complete block design with four replications. Result showed that unweeded treatment consistently produced highest weed density (87.50 and 81.38 m-2) and weed biomass (42.32 and 39.36 g/m2), while weed free treatment had least weed density (5.00 and 4.65 m-2) and weed biomass (11.58 and 10.77 g/m2) at 8 WAP in 2008 and 2009 respectively. Treatments also had significant effect on plant height at 12 WAP, with unweeded producing shortest plants (31.62 and 28.77cm), while 3.0 kg ai/ha of primextra gave the tallest plants (48.75 and 44.36cm), which were comparable to those of weed free (41.88 and 38.11cm), primextra 1.5 kg ai/ha (40.08 and 36.47cm) and 20,000 plants/ha of pumpkin (38.90 and 35.39cm) treatments in 2008 and 2009 respectively. Primextra 1.5 kgai/ha resulted in significantly higher number of cormels (8.31 and 6.49), weight of corm per stand (1.03 and 0.08 kg) and total yield (22.06 and 17.23 t/ha) than the weed free. Pumpkin 30,000 plants/ha gave a significantly higher total yield (20.85 and 16.28 t/ha) than pumpkin 20,000 plants/ha and unweeded check. Therefore, application of primextra 1.5 kgai/ha and 30,000 plants/ha of pumpkin could be recommended for use in Uyo.

Keywords: Primexta, pumpkin, weed control, cocoyam.

102

THE EFFECT OF SOME PLANT EXTRACTS ON THE GROWTH

OF SEED BORNE FUNGI OF THE AFRICAN YAM BEAN

(Sphenostylis stenocarpa)

Ugwuoke, K.I., *Mbadianya, J.I. and Nwaokoro, N.

University of Nigeria, Nsukka *Corresponding Author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

In this study, eight plant extracts; Jatropha curcas, Parkia biglobosa,

Cassia alata, Ficus exasperate, Newbouldia laevis, Drecaena aborea,

Brayophyllium pinnatum and Dichepetanium were tested for their antifungal activities against seed – borne organisms in African yam bean seeds (Sphenostylis stenocarpa). The experiment was carried out at the Department of Crop Science Laboratory, University of Nigeria, Nsukka with a view to develop plant based formulations for disease management. The experimental design was factorial in completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Factor A was the plant extracts while factor B was the extraction methods. The result revealed that both extracts and methods of extraction had great influence on the growth of seedborne organisms found on African yam bean. The activity of the alcoholic extract (28.3) was more effective on the organisms than the aqueous extract (54.6).Although; all the plant extracts evaluated had antifungal effect on the growth of fungi organisms that affects the seeds of African yam beans when compared with the untreated control. Jatropha curcas (4.4) was more phytotoxic to the seedborne organisms under the alcoholic extraction whereas Cassia alata (16.7) was the best under water extraction.

Keywords: African yam bean, Anti- fungal, Botanicals, Extraction and Protectants

103

Response of Potential Stored Grain Insect Pests to BFL 225 Multi-

attractant Lure in Commercial Warehouses

Donald A. Ukeh*, Mandu J. Sambo and Musa D. Isah

Department of Crop Science, University of Calabar, P.M.B. 1115, Calabar, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author: [email protected]; [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Farmers generally store their harvested produce to ensure a continuous food supply for their household, provide seed for subsequent crops, and source of livelihood. The introduction of new crop varieties has led to a contemporary selection of plants susceptible to infestation by insects, due to a loss of resistance to insect attack. Studies were conducted to determine the efficacy of traps baited with kairomone BFL 225 multi-attractant for the detection and monitoring of storage insect pests in commercial warehouses in southern Nigeria for ten months. This trapping experiment demonstrated that floor traps baited with BFL 225 significantly (P< 0.001) lured insects pests compared to the unbaited (control). The predominant insects captured included Sitophilus spp., Plodia interpunctella, Tribolium castaneum, Callosobruchus maculatus, Alphitobius laevigatus and Rhyzopertha

dominica. The implication of this study is that BFL 225 could be utilized as a part of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for early detection of potential insect pests of stored grain in tropical Africa. Keywords: Baited traps, storage pests, kairomone.

104

EFFECT OF LEAF EXTRACT OF SIDA ACUTA BURM F. ON

JUVINILE MORTALITY OF MELOIDOGYNE JAVANICA

I.UMAR* and M. B. AJI

DEPAERTMENT OF CROP PROTECTION, MODIBBO ADAMA

UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, YOLA, NIGERIA.

*Corresponding Author’s E-mail: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

The effect of leaf extract of Sida acuta on juvenile mortality of Meloidogyne javanica was investigated in the laboratory of the Department of Crop Protection, Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola in 2011. Crude extract of the powder was obtained by soaking 500 g of the dried leaf powder in 200 ml of distilled water. Serial dilution of the aqueous extract was carried out with 3, 6, 12 and 15 ml distilled water, respectively. Petri dishes containing approximately 50 juveniles of M.

javanica were treated with the various levels of the extract and the control which had only distilled water. There were five treatments replicated thrice. All petri dishes were arranged in a complete randomized design in the laboratory. The results of the study showed that the crude extract gave 100 % juvenile mortality, followed by 3 and 6 ml dilution and least (0 %) in control. It could be concluded from the study that the crude extract was highly potent to juveniles of M. javanica, however, further field trial is recommended. Keywords: Meloidogyne javanica, juvenile mortality, Sida acuta, leaf extract.

105

USE OF SOIL AMENDMENTS IN THE CONTROL OF

BACTERIAL DISEASES OF MUNGBEAN (VIGNA RADIATA)

OPARA EMMA UMUNNA, *1 AGUGO ANSELEM 2 AND IKELUGO ONYINYECHI 1

1Department of Plant Health Management 2Department of Agronomy, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture,

Umudike.


ABSTRACT A field trial was conducted at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike during the wet season of 2009/2010 to assess the potentials of soil organic amendments on the control of some common bacterial diseases associated with Munbean (Vigna radiata) which included bacterial blight, halo blight, tan spot and bacterial wilt. The treatments employed included leaves of Azacdiratha indica, Delonix regia, poultry droppings, kitchen ash, and streptomycin sulphate as a check with three replicates. A. indca and Delonix regia leaves were allowed to decompose before application. All treatments were applied as side dressing and the design was a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Data were collected on the growth parameters including length of vine, number of branches and yield parameters like number of pods and pod weight; disease severity/incidence were also accessed. The results obtained showed that Kitchen ash (414.6g) increased growth of Vigna radiata, sustained high total pod weight and also suppressed disease incidence (5.0%) and severity (3.0). The amendments possibly adjusted the acidity of the soil thereby making nutrients readily available to the plant which led to the improved growth and higher pod weight. Keywords: Organic amendments, bacterial diseases, Munbean, grain yield.

106

Section IV

Horticulture

107

Effect of Aqueous Extract of Hibiscus Sabdariffa on Some Biochemical

Parameters in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats

1Aba, P. E., 1Nwaigwe, C. O., 1Okwuagwu, F. O., 1Udem S.C. and 2Ogbanya, K.C. 1Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Nigeria,

Nsukka. 2Department of Veterinary Surgery, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

ABSTRACT

This study investigated some biochemical effects associated with subchronic administration of the aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa to alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Twenty male albino wistar rats were divided into four groups of five rats per group. Diabetes was induced in groups 1, 2 and 3 rats by single intraperitoneal injection of alloxan monohydrate (150mg/kg) while group 4 rats served as positive control. Upon establishment of diabetes, group 1 rats were treated with 30 mg/ml of H. sabdariffa extract ad libitum while group 3 rats were treated with glibenclamide (2mg/kg), a known antidiabetic drug. Groups 2 and 4 rats were given clean water. All treatments lasted for 21days. Glucose levels of the rats were assessed on days 0,7,14 and 21 while blood for clinical chemistry analyses (alanine aminotransferase ALT, aspartate aminotransferase AST, alkaline phosphatase ALP, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein HDL) were collected on days 0 and 21. Low density lipoprotein (LDL) was calculated using Friedwald formular and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) was gotten by dividing triglyceride with 5. In vitro antioxidant assay was carried out using ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) model. Results showed that the blood glucose level of the extract treated rats decreased significantly (p> 0.05) from 296.00 ± 86.11 on day zero to 30.87 ± 11.39 on day 21. This was comparable with reduction achieved by glibenclamide treated group. The total cholesterol and LDL levels of the extract treated rats were significantly (p<0.05) lower than that of the diabetic untreated controls. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the mean activities of serum AST, ALT and ALP when compared across the groups. The results of in vitro antioxidant test revealed that the antioxidant activity of H. sabdariffa extract was concentration dependent with the maximum antioxidant activity of 87% at 400 mg/ml. The

aqueous extract of H. sabdariffa exhibited hypoglycaemic, hypolipidaemic and antioxidant effects on alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Keywords: H. sabdariffa, Diabetic rats, Lipid profile, Liver marker enzymes, Glycaemia and antioxidant.

108

GROWTH AND YIELD RESPONSE OF MORINGA OLEIFERA

(Lam) TO DIFFERENT RATES, METHOD AND TIMING OF

COMPOST APPLICATION

ADEJUMO S.A1*. and OLALEYE O. O.1

1Department of Crop Protection and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Agric and Forestry University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author: [email protected] ABSTRACT Moringa oleifera (L) is recently being advocated for its outstanding phytochemical components with high medicinal values. However, its production is being threatened with poor soil fertility most especially in urban areas. Field experiment was carried out to determine the effects of time, rate and method of compost application on the growth performances of Moringa oleifera. Composts made from Mexican sunflower and poultry manure, applied at 2.5t/ha (C1) and 5.0t/ha (C2), with two methods of application (surface; M1 and drilling; M2) and applied at different times (before transplanting; T1 and after transplanting; T2) to give nine treatments ( C1M1T1, C2M1T1, C1M2T1, C2M2T1, C1M1T2, C2M1T2, C1M2T2, C2M2T2 and Control). The experiments were arranged using Randomized Complete Blocks Design (RCBD) and replicated three times. Data were collected on vegetative development such as number of leaves, number of branches, stem diameter and plant height fortnightly for 12 weeks beginning from four weeks after transplanting (4WAT). At 12 weeks, the plants were uprooted and separated into roots, stems and leaves for fresh and dry weights determination. The post-cropping soil analysis was also carried out following standard procedure. Results indicated that compost treatments significantly enhanced growth parameters (P ≤ 0.05). C2M2T2 was superior to other compost treatments. It gave the highest number of leaves, number of branches, stem diameter and plant height, Fresh weight and dry matter accumulation were also influenced by organic amendment compared to control, Soil analysis result showed that amendment with compost generally increased soil nitrogen, available phosphorus, and organic carbon content of the soil. It could be concluded that 5t/ha of compost, applied after transplanting using drilling method increased the cummulative yield of Moringa oleifera.

Keywords: Drilling, surface dressing, Mexican sunflowers, compost, Moringa oleifera.

109

Effect of trellis height and cutting frequency on leaf and fruit yield of

fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook F.) over two seasons in

Nsukka

.*Chukwudi, P. U and Agbo, C. U.

Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka


ABSTRACT

The horticultural management practices of trellis height and cutting frequency were evaluated to determine their effect on yield of Telfairia

occidentalis. The experimental design was a 3 x 2 factorial in randomized complete block design (RCBD). The three bamboo trellis heights (0 cm, 45 cm, and 90 cm) were combined with two cutting (0 and 2 weekly) intervals to give six treatment combinations that were replicated three times. The following data were collected bi-weekly at the vegetative stage: length of the longest vine, number of leaves/plant, number of leaves/vine length of 40 cm, length of the central leaflet, width of the central leaflet, stem diameter, marketable leaf yield by weight, days to first male, and female flowering, number of fruit(s)/plant/plot at the end of the experiment, and weight, length, and circumference of fruit(s)/plant/plot at the end of the experiment. The data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using GenStat Release 10.3DE statistical software. Trellis height of 90 cm was significantly (p<0.05) higher in most of the morphological parameters measured. Although there was non-significant effect of trellis on days to anthesis, the result revealed improvement on the number of days to flowering as the trellis height increased. The trellised plants were significantly (p<0.05) higher than the non-trellised in total leaf yield/hectare. The uncut vines produced higher values in average fruit weight, fruit circumference, fruit length and total fruit weight/ha than the cut vines in both years.

Keywords: Telfairia, Trellis, Cutting Frequency, Yield.

110

Effect of Planting Dates on the Performance of Pigeonpea Varieties in

Southern Guinea Savanna Ecology of Nigeria

Moses Onyilo Egbe1*, Ambi Ayuba Aku2 and Seyi Odebiyi1

1 Department of Crop Production, University of Agriculture,

P.M.B.2373,Makurdi, Nigeria 2 Department of Crop and Environmental Protection, University of

Agriculture,P.M.B.2373, Makurdi, Nigeria

*E-mail of the corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT Field experiment was conducted for two years (May, 2011 to February, 2012 and May, 2012 to February, 2013) at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi. The objective of the study was to investigate the performance of some improved pigeonpea varieties planted at different dates with a view of selecting the optimal date(s) of planting for each of the varieties. The experiment comprised of three planting dates (25th day of each month of May, June and July) as main plot treatments and six pigeonpea varieties (ICPL332, ICPL87119, ICPL187-1, ICPL84060, ICPL88039 and a local check, var.’igbongbo’) as sub-plot treatments. The experiment was laid out as split plot in randomized complete block design with three replications. The plant height of all the varieties of pigeonpea tested decreased from May planting to July planting, except in ICPL88039, which had erratic response. Planting date x variety interaction effects on plant height, number of pods per plant, pod weight, grain and straw weight were significant, indicating the varieties performed better at different planting dates,e.g.,ICPL84060 and the local check performed better in May planting, while ICPL332 and ICPL187-1 gave higher yields in July planting.

Keywords: Planting date, Variety, Pigeonpea, Makurdi

111

ESTIMATION OF BUNCH YIELD FROM EARLY GROWTH

PARAMETERS IN PLANTAINS (MUSA AAB GROUP)

G.I. HARRY*, E.E. ETUKUDOH and N.U. NDAEYO



ABSTRACT

Recently concerns have been expressed about dwindling research funds. A study was conducted at the University of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm, Annex campus to estimate bunch yield of six plantain cultivars (4479-1, Akpakpak, Agbagba, Mbi-Egome, 7152-2, and Ogoni Red), using early growth parameters. The early growth parameters for the shoot characteristics were assessed at 12 weeks after planting (WAP) while the root characteristics were estimated at 24 WAP. The experiment was laid out in a randomized compete block design with three replications. The results showed that there were significant differences (P< 0.05) in the bunch yield of the plantains. Early growth parameters particularly leaf area, plant height, number of leaves, number of adventitious roots, root length, average diameter of roots and root dry weight significantly (P<0.05) affected bunch yield of the plantain cultivars. The highest bunch weight of 10.55 kg per plant and 10.28 kg per plant were obtained from 4479-1 and Mbi-Egome, respectively; which also had the highest numbers of adventitious roots (18.3 and 12.8, respectively). Yields of these varieties were also positively correlated with their leaf areas of 789.88 cm2 and 958.60 cm2, as well as, with the number of leaves (9 and 8, respectively). These varieties also had the longest roots. However, as the root dry weight increased, the bunch yield decreased. Thus, root dry weight was negatively correlated (R2 = -0.6856) with bunch yield. When used as an early growth trait to estimate bunch yield, plant height, number of leaves, number of adventitious roots and length of root were the best early growth indicators which could be used to estimate bunch yield of plantains. Based on the findings, particularly the relationship between bunch yield and early growth parameters of the Mbi-Egome and 4479-1 varieties, it was concluded that growth indicators could be used for bunch yield estimation in plantain.

112

AGE OF SEEDLING AT TRANSPLANTING INFLUENCED

GROWTH AND FRUIT YIELD OF SWEET PEPPER (Capsicum

annum .L cv Rodo)

1H.M. Ibrahim, 2F.O. Olasantan and 1R.O. Oyewale*

1Department of Crop Production Federal University of Technology Minna,Niger State.

2Universityof Agriculture Abeokuta, Ogun State.

*Corresponding author: [email protected] ABSTRACT Field experiment was conducted at the teaching and research farm of the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta to evaluate the effect of variations in the age of nursery seedlings on growth and fruit yield of sweet pepper (Capsicum annum L. cv Rodo). The seedlings were transplanted at different ages viz 8, 10, 12 or 14 weeks after nursery sowing (WAS). The seedlings were arranged according to their respective ages in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates. Result of the experiment showed that the variation in the ages of the sweet pepper seedlings had significant (p<0.05) effect on the subsequent plant height, leaf area, number of leaves and number of branches per plant. Pepper seedlings transplanted at 8 and 10 WAS produced larger leaves, greater number of leaves, more branches per plant, and also grew taller than the seedlings transplanted at 12 or 14 WAS. Variation in the seedling transplanting age had no significant effect on the fresh fruit yield (kg/ha). However, pepper seedlings transplanted at 8 and 10 weeks produced more fruits and higher fresh fruit yield per hectare than those seedlings transplanted at 12 and 14 WAS. Similarly, pepper seedlings transplanted at 8 and 10 WAS reached 50% flowering earlier than those transplanted at 12 and 14 WAS, thus gave better growth vigour and fresh fruit yield. It is recommended that pepper seedlings should not be left beyond 10 weeks in nursery before transplanting for optimum performance. Keywords: Sweet pepper, nursery seedlings, transplanting age, fruit yield.

113

IMPLICATION OF AGE ON GROWTH AND LATEX

PRODUCTIVITY OF RUBBER PLANTATION

Idoko, S.O., F.O. Uzu, T.U. Esekhade, Y. Waizah and E. Obazuaye

Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, P.M.B. 1049, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria

ASTRACT

The effect of age of rubber plantation on rubber tree population, stem characteristics and rubber latex productivity was studied in to determine the factors that may necessitate rubber plantation replacement. The study was carried out in the Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria’s rubber plantations at Iyanomo, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The experiment consisted of 1 hectare adopted in GT I plantations of ages 4, 18 and 45 years old plantations. Each of the plots were demarcated into three equal parts as replicates and arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design to assess the effect of age on the physiological and latex yield of rubber. Data were generated on the plant population, stem growth characteristics and latex yield of the rubber trees. Data generated were subjected to analysis of variance statistics and significant means were separated using the Least Significant Difference Test. The result showed that rubber population and yield of rubber decreased with age indicating that rubber can remain productive even beyond the age of forty years. Hence, reduction in plant population rather than age of should determine the need for replanting of rubber plantation.

Keywords: Rubber plantation, Age, growth, productivity, Iyanomo, Nigeria

114

ANTI-NUTRIENT COMPOSITION OF MORINGA (Moringa oleifera

LAM) LEAVES AS INFLUENCED BY POULTRY MANURE

APPLICATION

*Ndubuaku, U. M., Nwankwo, V. U. and Baiyeri, K. P.

Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria,

Nsukka *Corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

The study was carried out to determine the influence of poultry manure application on anti-nutrient compositions of old and succulent leaves of Moringa oleifera plants. Three levels of poultry manure i.e. O tonne/ha, 5 tonnes/ha and 10 tonnes/ha were used for treatment. The moringa seeds used were collected from three locations of Nigeria i.e Nsukka (Enugu State), Dutse (Jigawa State) and Jos (Plateau State). The experiment was carried out on the field in the Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. It was a 3 x 3 factorial experiment laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Old and succulent leaves of the moringa plants were sampled monthly for three months after planting and taken to the laboratory of International Institute for Tropical Agriculture, (IITA) at Ibadan (Western Nigeria) for anti-nutrient determination. Poultry manure application insignificantly (p>0.05) increased oxalate, phytate and saponin compositions of the leaves. The older leaves had higher values of tannin, oxalate, phytate and saponin than the succulent leaves. Seed source did not have any significant effect on the quantities of the anti-nutrients in the leaves.

Keywords: Moringa leaves, anti-nutrients, poultry manure.

115

AMINO ACID PROFILE OF MORINGA (Moringa oleifera LAM)

LEAVES AS INFLUENCED BY POULTRY MANURE

APPLICATION

*Ndubuaku, U. M., Nwankwo, V. U. and Baiyeri, K. P. Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria,

Nsukka.


ABSTRACT The study was carried out in the Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to determine the amino acid contents of succulent and older leaves of Moringa oleifera plants as influenced by poultry manure application. Three levels of poultry manure (0 ton/ha, 5 tons/ha and 10 tons/ha) were used. The seeds used were collected from three locations of Nigeria (Jos, Nsukka and Jigawa). The experiment was a 3 x 3 factorial trial in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Succulent and older leaves were sampled monthly for laboratory analysis. Levels of poultry manure did not have any significant effect (p>0.05) on essential and non-essential amino acid contents of the leaves. Source of seeds did not also have any significant effect (p>0.05) on both groups of amino acids (essential and non-essential amino acids) except histidine. Succulent leaves had higher values of the amino acids than older leaves except tryptophan, argenine (essential amino acids), aspartic acid, serine and tyrosine (non-essential amino acids). There were significant differences (p <0.05) in the contents of phenylalanine, typtophan, histidine (essential amino acids), alanine, glutamine and glycine (non-essential amino acids) between the succulent and older leaves of the moringa plants.

Keywords: Moringa oleifera, essential and non-essential amino acids, poultry manure.

116

NUTRIENT COMPOSITIONS OF LIQUID AND SOLID

FRACTIONS OF ORGANIC WASTE FERMENTATION AND THE

INFLUENCE ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF OKRA

*1Ndubuaku, U. M., 1Imegwu, C. N. and 2Ndubuaku, N.E.

1Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. 2Department of Soil Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.


The study was carried out in a screen-house in the Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria, Nsukka to investigate the nutrient compositions of liquid and solid fractions (biol and biosol) of organic waste fermentation, and the influence on growth and yield of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L) Moench). The organic waste materials used were rice husk, moringa pod husk and grass residue. The morphological characteristics considered were plant height (cm), stem girth (cm) and number of leaves. The yield characteristics were number of fruits/plant, number of seeds/fruit, 100 seed weight (g), fresh fruit weight (g/plant), fruit length (cm) and fruit circumference (cm). Laboratory chemical analysis was carried out to determine the percentage nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) and carbon (C) contents of the organic waste materials. Proximate analysis of the waste materials was also carried out to determine the percentage crude protein, ash, fat and moisture contents. The result of the chemical analysis of the waste plant materials after fermentation showed high concentrations of N, P, K and percentage carbon (%C) in the solid than liquid fraction. Percentage crude protein, ash and fat contents of the waste materials were more in the solid than the liquid fraction in all the plant materials. The moisture contents of the plant materials increased after fermentation. Rice husk significantly (p < 0.05) increased the morphological characteristics. At six weeks after planting, the liquid fraction (biol) gave the highest plant height, stem girth and leaf number compared with the solid fraction (biosol) and combination of the liquid and solid fractions. The particle size difference had no significant (t > 0.05) effect on the morphological and yield parameters. Boil gave the highest values of most of the yield characteristics followed by combination of boil and biosol in the two months of fermentation.

Keywords: Biol, Biosol, rice husk, moringa pod husk, grass residue, okra plant.

117

VITAMIN CONTENT, PROXIMATE AND CHEMICAL

PROPERTIES OF MORINGA (Moringa oleifera Lam) LEAVES AS

INFLUENCED BY POULTRY MANURE APPLICATION

*Ndubuaku, U. M., Nwankwo, V. U. and Baiyeri, K. P.

Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria, Nsukka


ABSTRACT

The study was carried out in the Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria Nsukka to determine the influence of poultry manure application on the vitamin content, proximate and chemical properties of succulent and older leaves of Moringa oleifera plants. The levels of poultry manure used were 0 tonne/ha, 5 tonnes/ha and 10 tonnes/ha respectively. The moringa seeds used were collected from three locations of Nigeria i.e Nsukka (Enugu State), Dutse (Jigawa State) and Jos (Plateau State). The experiment was a 3 x 3 factorial trial in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The poultry manure levels did not show any significant differences (p<0.05) in the proximate properties (% ash, % crude protein, % fat, % crude fibre and % carbohydrate), chemical properties (nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sodium, manganese, iron, zinc, copper) and some vitamin contents (vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, and C). Succulent leaves had higher values of the proximate properties except carbohydrate, vitamins (except vitamin B2) and chemical properties except Cu and Zn. There were no significant effects (p<0.05) of the seed sources on the proximate properties of the leaves, vitamin content except vitamin A and chemical compositions except P and Cu.

Keywords: Moringa oleifera, vitamins, proximate and chemical properties, poultry manure.

118

Reproductive yield and nutritive quality of landrace accessions of

fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) in Southeastern Nigeria

Nwonuala, A I.1, Alagba, R. A2, Okoli, N. A2., Ojiako, F.O.2, Ofor, M.O.2, *Ibeawuchi, I. I.2 and Obiefuna, J. C. 2

1DEPARTMENT OF CROP SCIENCE, RIVERS STATE UNIVERSITY

OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2DEPARTMENT OF CROP SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, SAAT,

FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, OWERRI


ABSTRACT

The research studied morphotypes of Telfairia occidentalis endemic in south eastern Nigeria for improved reproductive growth and yield. Land races from five states of the agroecology namely Anambra (AN), Imo (IM), Abia (AB), Enugu (EN) and Rivers (RV) were established ex-situ at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri in 2009/2010 and 2010/2011 cropping seasons. The desirable reproductive yield and nutritional qualities for both male and females of each landrace were assessed. Results showed significant differences among morphotypes at P=0.05 for most traits studied, with the Rivers landraces outyielding the other landraces for most characteristics studied. Rivers landraces produced the highest number of female flowers (83) and consequently an agronomic potential for highest fruit yield. Abia landrace produced the highest fruit yield (4) per plant. Enugu and Abia landraces had more females (55 and 52 percent) respectively than the male plants (45 and 48 percent) while Rivers, Anambra and Imo landraces had more male plants (53, 67 and 68 percent) than female plants (47, 33 and 32 percent). Rivers landraces had the highest Vitamin A and C, protein and lipid content in the leaves stem and flowers respectively. Appropriate recommendation of the landrace with desirable reproductive yield and nutritional qualities were made.

119

Biological activities of naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) in in-Vitro

production of sweet potato (Ipomea batatas (L.) Lam.)

*Onwubiko, N.C; 1 Mozie, M.U1. and C. Ijeoma2

1.Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri

2.National Root Crop Research Institute,Umudike


ABSTRACT A laboratory experiment to determine the appropriate concentration of NAA for in vitro sweet potato production was carried out at the National Root Crop Research Institute (NRCRI) Umudike. Ipomea batatas variety; 440293 that was used in this study was incubated in a culture room at 280C

and exposed to artificial illumination of 2000-2500 lux for 16 hours daily. The experimental design was Complete Randomized Design (CRD) with 8 treatment and 25 replicates. The result showed that NAA significantly improved the in vitro performance of I. batatas. This is evident on the fact that generally none of the treatment at different concentration formed callus. NAA promoted the highest mean number of height and developed leaves at 0.05mg/l concentration, and developed nodes and roots at 0.15mg/l concentration.

120

Herbage yield distribution over time as influenced by sward type, cutting

frequency and fertilizer-N application in guinea grass (Panicum maximum) and

verano stylo (Stylosanthes hamata) sole or mixed swards

*Onyeonagu, C. C1., Asiegbu, J. E1., Ikenganyia, E. E.1, Onyeke, C. C2., Azuka, C. V.3 and Okechukwu, G.C.E.4

1Department of Crop Science University of Nigeria, Nsukka. 2Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

3Department of Soil Science University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria. 4Department of Agronomy and Ecological Mangement,Enugu State University of

Science and Techonology.


This experiment was a 3 x 3 x 2 factorial laid out in a randomized complete block design and was replicated three times. Treatments comprised three sward types (pure grass, pure legume and grass/legume mixed swards), three cutting regimes (4 weeks, 8 weeks and 12 weeks) and two nitrogen fertilizer rates (0 and 300 kg N ha-1). Guinea grass dry matter yield increased significantly (P ≤ 0.05) by 42% during the early harvest period in 2006, when the interval between cuts increased from 4 to 8 weeks. Grass yield was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) reduced by 54% at the late period (October-December) of 2006, when interval between cuts increased from 4 to 8-weekly interval. During the first two harvest periods in 2007, grass dry matter yield was significantly increased with infrequent cutting interval of 8 weeks compared with 4-weekly interval between cuts. There were 98% and 65% significant (P ≤ 0.05) increases in verano stylo dry matter yields during the early harvest periods in 2006 and 2007, respectively, when the interval between cuts increased from 4 to 8 weeks. However, during the late harvest period (September-November) in 2007, legume dry matter yield decreased significantly (P ≤ 0.05) by 34% when interval between cuts increased from 4 to 8 weeks. Grass dry matter yield increased significantly by 58% during the second harvest period (July-September) in 2007, when nitrogen fertilizer application increased from 0 to 300 kg N ha-1. Fertilizer N application did not show significant effect on the legume dry matter yield in any of the harvest periods in both 2006 and 2007. Grass dry matter yield was significantly higher in guinea grass swards than in guinea grass/verano stylo mixed swards during the first and last harvest periods in 2007. In all the periods of harvest in 2006, the legume dry matter yield was significantly higher in verano stylo swards than in situations where verano stylo was in mixture with guinea grass. Keywords: Harvest period, yield, interval between cuts, mixed pasture, nitrogen.

121

Seasonal and location effect on the mineral, tannin and phytate

contents of some common browse plants in Nsukka, Nigeria

*Onyeonagu, C.C. and Oko, J.I.

Department of Crop Science University of Nigeria, Nsukka.


ABSTRACT

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of harvesting at different seasons and from different locations on the mineral and anti-nutrient composition of some browse plants commonly found in Nsukka, derived savanna zone of Nigeria. Seasonal variation did not influence the concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, tannin and phytate in the browse plants. The iron and zinc concentrations in the browse species were significantly (P < 0.05) higher during the dry season than in the rainy season. Source of collection of browse species had no significant effect on all the parameters measured. Baphia nitida significantly (P < 0.05) had the highest concentrations of nitrogen and iron and the least concentration of tannin among the browse species while Pterocarpus santalinoides

significantly (P < 0.05) produced the highest concentrations of phosphorus and potassium compared with other species. Spondias mumbin significantly (P < 0.05) produced the least concentration of phytate compared with other browse species. Keywords: Anti-nutrients, source of collection, nutrients, browse species, season.

122

Yield Variation in Sweet Orange (Citrus species) as Influenced by Variety,

Location and Management Practices in Benue State, Nigeria

1Ortese, E.; 2Baiyeri*, K. P. and 3Ugese, F. D. 1Crops Department, Akperan Orshi College of Agriculture, Yandev, Benue State,

Nigeria. 2Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria. 3Department of Crop Production, University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State,

Nigeria


ABSTRACT

Varietal differences in fruit yield of citrus species in Benue State (Nigeria) as influenced by production zone and aspects of agronomic practices were determined. Data were collected from 15 citrus farmers in each of 12 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the State through the use of semi- structured questionnaires. Analysis of variance performed on the data revealed significant effects of factors evaluated on citrus fruit yield across the state. The yields of lbadan sweet and Valencia, the two most important commercial varieties in the state were highest in Gwer West, Gboko, Vandeikya, Ushongo and Konshisha LGAs. Medium scale farms (1-5 ha) and large scale farms (>5 ha) yielded better than small scale farms (<1 ha). Yields of citrus in zone A (comprising Vandeikya, Konshisha, Ushongo, Logo and Katsina-ala) and zone B (Gboko, Buruku, Tarka, Gwer east and Gwer west) were higher than that of zone C (Oju and Otukpo). Yield of citrus orchards did not follow a pattern of higher yield with educational attainment of the growers. All citrus varieties except Valencia (which preferred clayey soils) did well across the soil types. Response of the varieties to fertilizer type differed significantly. Thus, while Ibadan sweet yielded higher with the application of NPK, Valencia showed the highest yield with sulphate of ammonia application. Other varieties responded better to the application of urea and NPK. It was deductive from the study that a number of factors including fertilizer use, farm size, variety grown, soil type, educational qualification of the farmers among other factors, influence the productivity of citrus crops in Benue State, Nigeria. However, there is a need to properly determine nutrient requirement of citrus in this important growing zone and make sound scientific recommendations. Keywords: Citrus species, yield variation, farmers’ practices, Benue State, Nigeria.

123

PHOSPHORUS APPLICATION INFLEUNCED YIELD AND

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF SNAKE TOMATO (Trichosanthes

cucumerina L.)

1*R.O. Oyewale, 2G.A. Idowu, 1H.M. Ibrahim and 1L.Y. Bello 1Department of Crop Production, Federal University of Technology, Minna,

Niger state, Nigeria. 2Department of Seed Certification, Quality control, Crop Registration and

Release, National Agricultural Seeds Council, Abuja-Nigeria


ABSTRACT

The experiment was carried out on the teaching and research farm of the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta to determine the effect of phosphorus application rates on yield and chemical composition of snake tomato (Trichosanthes cucumerina L). The treatments were four levels of phosphorus application (15, 30, 45 and 60 kg/ha), and the control plot at zero level. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. Phosphorus application significantly (p<0.05) increased the fruit yield at 15 kg/ha up to 30 kg P ha-1, beyond which there was a decline. Chemical composition of the harvested fruits showed that the plots that received 45 and 60 kg P/ha had significantly (p<0.05) higher Na content than the other levels. Similarly, Mg content of the fruits increased significantly (p<0.05) with increasing levels of phosphorus application. The vitamin C and β carotene content of the fruits were higher at 15 kg/ha P than the other treatments. Vitamin A was significantly (p<0.05) higher in fruits harvested from the fertilized plots than those of the control. The acidity and Brix content of fruit tissue were highest at 15 and 30 kg/ha P, but not with statistical significance.

Keywords: Snake tomato, phosphorus fertilizer, fruit yield, nutrient composition.

124

Effect of Hydropriming and Scarification Techniques on Seed

Germination of Maesobotrya barteri (Red Meso/Bush cherry) in the

Nursery

*Peter-Onoh, C.A., Obiefuna, J.C., Ngwuta, A.A., Ibeawuchi, I.I., Agu,

C.M., Chigbundu, I. N Onoh, P.A.

Schoo l of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri.

*Corresponding author : [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Poor seed germination has drastically constrained wide spread of M. barteri (Bush cherry) coupled with rapid industrialization and deforestation. Clonal propagation is the convention but slow. A seed germination experiment was conducted in the screen house of Federal University of Technology, Owerri. The pre-sowing treatments were soaking the seeds of M. barteri in cold water and potassium chloride solution (6, 12, 24 hours) respectively. Other seedlots were soaked in concentrated sulphuric acid (Quick dip, 30, 60 seconds) while physical scarification involving seed-sand mixture in a shaker for 30 minutes and control treatment (No treatment applied). All treated seeds were sowed in sawdust growth medium. A total of 11 treatments were replicated three (3) times. The experiment lasted for 4 weeks after emergence. Data were collected for percentage seed emergence, 50% seed emergence, emergence index (EI), mean emergence time (MET), coefficient velocity of emergence (CVE), radical and seedling height, seedling fresh and dry weight of M. barteri. These were analysed using general ANOVA at 5% significance level. Physical scarification, cold water (6 hours) and potassium chloride solution (24hours) improved M. barteri

percentage seed emergence (95%, 95% and 70%), coefficient velocity of emergence (3.46, 3.27 and 3.57), emergence index (549. 0, 581.0 and 392. 0) and mean emergence time (28.8, 30.6 and 28.0 days ) respectively more than other primed and control seeds.

Keywords: Seed, Maesobotrya barteri, hydropriming, scarification, germination.

125

Survey Assessment of Indigenous Knowledge Systems for Seed Storage

of Rainforest Spice (Monodora myristica) in Southeastern Nigeria

*Peter-Onoh, C.A., Obiefuna, J.C., Ibeawuchi, I.I., Ofor, M.O., Onoh, P.A and Korie, C .O.

School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri Imo State

*Corresponding author: [email protected].

ABSTRACT The assessment of indigenous knowledge for the storage of Monodora

myristica seed for planting was carried out in three states (Abia, Enugu and Akwa-Ibom states) of southeast agroecology of Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was administered to 150 farmers from two LGAs each and 135 retrieved. Data collected were subjected to descriptive statistics like percentage, mean scores, frequency distribution, bar and pie charts. The study showed that the gathering of M. myristica was mostly done by men between the ages of 61-70. Those involved in gathering of M. myristica

seeds were married and formally educated people. The study further revealed that traditional method of storage is widely accepted since it promotes seed germination as investigated by 74% of the respondents. Insect pests attack is one of the problems encountered by the farmers hence 66.7% of the respondents have solicited for government assistance. This problem should be addressed as seed security is essential in ensuring increased use of agro-biodiversity which would in turn expand the options, opportunities and remains available at the rural grassroots level to improve nutrition and health, safeguard the household economic security and enhance sustainable agriculture. Keywords: Monodora myristica, seed, indigenous knowledge, respondents, storage, farmers.

126

Assessment of the nursery performance of different varieties of onions

for adaptation in owerri, south eastern Nigeria

Poly-Mbah, C. P1. , Iwueke , L. I1. ,Obiefuna, J.C2. and Ibeawuchi, I. I2.

1Department of Agricultural Science, Alvan Ikoku Federal College of

Education, Owerri. 2Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of

Technology, Owerri.

ABSTRACT The experiment was conducted to assess the different varieties of onion (Allium cepa) for adaptation in Owerri, South Eastern Nigeria. The experiment was carried out an in the Teaching and Research farm of the Department of Crop Science, Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, Owerri. Treatment comprised four varieties of Onion replicated fifteen times each in a Completely Randomized Design. Data was collected on number of days to 50% seedling emergence, plant height per plant, number of leaves per plant and dry matter weight per plant. Data collected was subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test. Significant treatment means were separated by means of F-LSD. Results showed that there were no significant differences in all the parameters studied which suggests that any of the varieties of onions used for this experiment can be used to raise onion seedlings in Owerri, South Eastern Nigeria. Keywords: Allium cepa, nursery performance, varieties, adaptation.

127

AN OVERVIEW OF VEGETABLE PRODUCTION IN SOUTH

EASTERN NIGERIA: THE WAY FORWARD

*Poly-Mbah, C. P1. , Obiefuna, J. C2. and Ibeawuchi, I. I2.

1Department of Agricultural Science, Alvan Ikoku Federal College of

Education, Owerri 2Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of

Technology, Owerri.


ABSTRACT

Vegetables (leaves, fruits and roots) are widely cultivated in most parts of sub Saharan Africa as cheap and reliable sources of vital nutrients. In Nigeria, vegetables are grown extensively in the Northern Nigeria but largely consumed in the south eastern Nigeria. This has resulted in high cost of vegetables especially fruit vegetables in southern Nigeria where they are widely consumed compared to the northern Nigeria where they are produced..There is need therefore to review the problems and prospects of vegetable production in south eastern Nigeria. This paper aimed at reviewing vegetable production in south eastern Nigeria in terms of the current status of vegetable production, problems and prospects of vegetable production. Findings revealed among others that vegetable production in major parts of the zone is still minimal in mixed cultures characterized by the use of crude implements and the non availability of inputs and complex technologies. The paper therefore recommends among others that awareness campaign be made on the need for extensive vegetable production in order to meet the dietary needs of the teeming population of south eastern Nigeria. Also, research institutes with mandate on the production of these vegetables be established . Efficient extension services should be provided in the south eastern Nigeria to update farmers on recent global trends in vegetable production.

Keywords: Vegetable production, south eastern Nigeria.

128

Cowpea clipping management: A prospective technology for

sustainable organic fodder production among small-holder farmers in

the savannah regions of nigeria

B. E. SAMBO

Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Crop Science, Federal University

Dutse, P.M.B.7156, Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria. Author’s e-mail: [email protected]

ABSTRACT The dual purpose cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) is important in the Sudano-Sahelian agro-ecology of Nigeria where it is used for livestock fodder and the grains for food. The crop produces abundant vegetative biomass as it spreads. Indeed, among the legumes, the dual purpose cowpea accounts for an appreciable quantity of the hay sold during the long dry season. A major challenge facing livestock farming in most part of the savannah is the sustained availability of quality fodder during the long dry season. Interestingly, it has been observed that when the cowpea crop is cut or clipped at the vegetative growth phase, it regenerates profusely, provided there is sufficient soil moisture. As such, it is possible to grow cowpea and its fodder used as animal feed; since it has been discovered that dry matter production, crude protein and in-vitro organic matter digestion could be improved through judicious clipping management. Results of this study at the Institute of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria – Nigeria; spanning through 2002 – 2005 cropping seasons showed that with clipping management, up to 15 t.ha-1 of green organic plant biomass (fodder) could be generated on-farm by the resource poor farmers. The clipped crops produced significantly (P<0.05) higher leaf/stem ratio, and lower C/N ratio than the control. This enhanced the suitability of the clipped cowpea fodder as a rich source of organic livestock feed. Without a doubt, a high quality feed is an important food supplement for good (animal) live weight, and certainly organic products have been documented to impact positively on both the health of the environment, as well as, animals and humans.

Keywords: Vigna unguiculata, clipping, biomass yield, fodder quality.

129

Effect of seed storage on the germination of four tomato (Lycopersicon

lycopersicum mill) varieties in the southern guinea savanna of Nigeria

1Tswanya, M.N.; 2Isah, K. M.; 1Ahmed, M.; 1Yisa, P. Z. and 3 Nda S. L.

1Department of Agricultural Technology, Niger State College of

Agriculture, Mokwa, Nigeria. 2Department of Crop Production, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University,

Lapai, Niger State, Nigeria. 3Department of Agricultural Technology, Federal Fresh Water Fisheries

Technology New Bussa Niger State, Nigeria.

Corresponding author: [email protected] ABSTRACT

A trial titled Effects of seed storage on the germinability of four tomato (Lycopersicon lycopersicum Mill) varieties was conducted in the screen house of Niger state College of Agriculture, Mokwa in 2011 and 2012. Four varieties of tomato were evaluated (‘Ibadan Local’, ‘Ife 1’, ‘UC82B’ and Roma VFN. The seeds were sourced from the Department of Agricultural Technology, Niger State College of Agriculture, Mokwa immediately after harvesting and stored under room temperature in a paper envelope, twenty seeds were counted and sown at a depth of 1 cm with regular watering thereafter. The seeds germination was tested at 3, 6 and 9 months. The trial was arranged in a Complete Randomized Design (CRD) replicated four times. The parameters taken were seedling height (cm), number of leaves, fresh weight of seedlings (g) and dry weight of seedlings (g). Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using Minitab 14 Statistical Package. The result showed that Ibadan Local was significantly taller than Roma VFN but was at par with Ife 1 and UC82B in this study. UC82B was significantly better in times of dry weight of seedlings than all other varieties tested. Keywords: seed storage, tomato varieties, seedlings, Lycopersicon

lycopersicum.

130

Effects of size of planting material and potassium fertilizer on the

growth and yield of Moringa oleifera in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

Udom, G. N., Udoh, F. J. and Udosen, U. U. Department of Crop Science,University of Uyo, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State,

Nigeria. ABSTRACT

A screen house and field experiments were conducted to elucidate the response of Moringa spp to size of planting material and potassium fertilizer on it growth and yield during 2011 cropping season. The treatments consisted of four size of planting materials (60, 80, 100 and 120) cm and three rates of potassium fertilizer (20, 30, 40) kg/ha. The experimental design used was randomized complete block design (RCBD) with factorial arrangement and replicated three times. The results showed significant differences (p<0.05) on 50% day of sprouting, number of leaves per plant, leaf area, number of days to 50% flowering and pod initiation. It was observed that growing Moringa through stem cutting with different size and different rate of potassium resulted in early flowering and pod initiation and higher foliar yield compared with raising it through seeds. Keywords: Moringa cuttings, potassium fertilizer, growth, yield.

131

Effect of weed management and cutting frequency on the proximate

composition of fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook F.)

*Ugwuaneke, V.O.1, Echezona, B.C.1, and Bakare, S.O2.

1Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria,

Nsukka. 2National Cereals Research Institute, Badeggi, Niger State.

*Corresponding author: [email protected]; vivian

[email protected]

ABSTRACT

Field and laboratory experiments were carried out from April to October 2011 at the Department of Crop Science Research Farm and Laboratory to evaluate the effect of cutting intervals and weed management options on the proximate compositions of fluted pumpkin. In the field, the experiment was laid out as a split plot with three cutting intervals as the main plots and six weed managements as the sub plot. These were arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Air dried leaf samples were analyzed for proximate composition. The result showed that the cutting frequency and weed management significantly (p < 0.05) affected the proximate composition of the leaves. Leaves of fluted pumpkin harvested at eight weekly intervals in hoe weeded plots had significantly (p<0.05) higher ash content (20.34 %) than the other weed management and cutting frequency options. Plants that were not cut but mulched with polyethylene significantly (p < 0.05) had higher crude fat content (0.86 %) compared to other treatment combinations. Keywords: cutting interval, proximate composition, weed management, Telfairia occidentalis.

132

Section V

Soil Resource

Management

133

Ameliorating aluminum toxicity in soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merril)

production with fertilizer materials on an alfisol in south western

Nigeria

¹J. O. ADEGOKE*, 1E. A. AKINRINDE, and 2 S. O.OGUNJINMI 1Department of Agronomy, University of Ibadan, Nigeria

2Department of Agricultural Technology, Oyo State College of Agriculture, Igboora, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT Aluminium toxicity is a major limitation to leguminous crop production in acidic soils and fertilizer treatment could ameliorate the condition. In this investigation, direct and residual effects of different fertilizer materials on the growth and yield of soybean grown with or without Al treatment were evaluated on an Alfisol. The investigation involved a greenhouse (5kg soil/pot) experiment conducted at the Agronomy Department, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, with two factors: fertilizer types - control, organic fertilizer (OF), inorganic fertilizer (IF) and OF + IF mixture at ratio 1:1 and Al treatment (0, 50, 100 and 150µM AlCl3). Sunshine organic fertilizer and single superphosphate (SSP) were used as OF and IF, respectively. Treatment combinations were replicated three times in a completely randomized design, giving a total of 48 experimental units. Data on growth parameters (plant height, number of leaves and stem girth) as well as yield parameters (biomass and pod weights) were analysed using ANOVA (p=0.05) while treatment means were separated by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. High Al rate (150µM) reduced the growth and yield of soybean while moderate Al application rates (50 and 100µM) enhanced the performance of the crop. Combination of OF+IF enhanced crop growth and yield even when 100µM Al was applied. However, it was only the sole application of organic fertilizer that was able to promote crop performance at 150µM Al concentration. Organic fertilizer had the highest residual effects among the various fertilizer treatments confirming that organic based fertilizers could be used to minimize the deleterious influence of aluminium toxicity on the production of soybean in acid soils.

Keywords: Soybean, fertilizer treatments, aluminium treatments, alfisols

134

Properties and fertility status of soils supporting pineapple (Ananas

comosus L.) crops in central and southern areas of Cross River State,

Nigeria

U. C. AMALU* and S. M. AFU Department of Soil Science, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria.


ABSTRACT The properties and fertility indices of soils grown to pineapple (Ananas comosus Linn.) crops in central and southern areas of Cross River state, Nigeria were examined. Samples collected from six soil profiles and 160-surface and 160-subsurface soil- horizons were analyzed for their morphological, physical and chemical properties and fertility indices evaluated. Results showed the profiles as underlain by the basement complex and acidic crystalline rocks, while the soils were dominantly deep, sandy to sandy loam soils with sand, silt and clay contents of 36.3-90.3%, 3.7-28.7% and 2.0-48% respectively. Soil colours were dark brown to yellowish brown top-soils and yellow to light yellowish sub-soils. The soils were generally acid in reaction with pH values ranging from 4.3 to 6.4. Organic carbon contents (0.12-1.83 g Kg-1), total nitrogen (0.02-0.16 g Kg-

1) and available phosphorus (0.37-451mg Kg-1) were all low to moderate, while exchangeable bases (K, Ca, Mg, and Na.) were all also very poor to low in contents. The above conditions were confirmed by the values of the various fertility indices of base and aluminum saturation, C/N, Ca/K, Ca/Mg, and K/Mg quotients, indicating generally soils of low to moderate fertility status for pineapple production. Based on the above results, it emerged that a balanced nitrogen, Potassium , magnesium manuring is indispensable from time of planting on both hybrid and local pineapple crops, as well as on similar soils poor in mineral nutrients. A combination of soil and plant tissue tests and analysis may be needed for proper diagnosis of the current status of nutrient elements and fertilization requirements and rates for growing pineapples in the studied soils. Further studies are underway to determining the superiority or otherwise of field evaluation trials over soil and plant tissue tests and analysis in establishing the fertilization requirements and rates for sustainable pineapple production in the study area. Keywords: Pineapples, soil fertility status, Cross River State, soil and plant tissue analyses.

135

A preliminary assessment of Agrolyzer micronutrient needs of soils of

Enugu State

.*Ezema, R.A., Ibudialo, A.N. and Omeje, T.E.

Department of Agronomy, Enugu State College of Agriculture and Agro-entrepneurship Iwollo, Enugu State Nigeria.


ABSTRACT

A study to assess the effect of Agrolyzer on the yield of both roots and shoots of maize crop grown in different soil locations of Enugu state was carried out in Iwollo in 2012. The result indicated that the application of Agrolyzer, a micronutrient formulation at the rate of 0.5gha-1, foliar applied, had no significant effect (p=0.05) on the dry matter yield of roots and shoots of maize grown in the different soil locations. The micronutrient status of the soils, therefore, is not such that limits optimal crop production. The implications of the discovery were also discussed.

136

Productivity of Cocoyam (Colocasia esculenta) and Economic Returns

to Management under Four Tillage Practices in Uyo, Southeastern

Nigeria

A. O. Ikeh1; N. U. Ndaeyo1; E. A. Akpan2, Nkeme, K. K3., 1Department of Crop Science, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

2 Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Akwa Ibom State University, Obio Akpa Campus

3Department of Agricultural Economics and Resources, Akwa Ibom State University, Obio Akpa Campus

*Correspondence author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

A study was conducted in 2010 and 2011 at Uyo, Southeastern Nigeria to evaluate the productivity of cocoyam (Colocasia esculenta) under four common tillage practices in the study area. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design of three replicates. Results showed significant difference (p<0.05) in growth and yield of cocoyam in both cropping season. The mounding method produced highest cocoyam yield of 16.96 and 16.10 t/ha in 2010 and 2011, respectively with percentage difference of 3-60% and 2-54%. The least total cocoyam yield of 6.84 and 7.35 t/ha were obtained from no-tilled method in 2010 and 2011, respectively. The result indicated highest cost of production in ridging method of N122,000 and N131,000 per hectare in 2010 and 2010, respectively. The highest mean cost benefit ratio of 9.9 was obtained from mounding (heaps). The results showed relatively lower cost of production and higher yield of cocoyam in mounding tillage practices in Uyo agro-ecology.

Keywords: Tillage, Cocoyam, growth and Yield

137

Effects of hedgerow prunings of Leucaena leucocephala (Lam) de Wit and Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) on earthworm activity, soil fertility and

food crops yield

1Imogie*, A. E., 2Ugbah M.M. and 3Ogeh, J. S. 1Agronomy Division, NIFOR

2Extension and Economic Department, NIFOR. 3Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, UNIBEN.


ABSTRACT

A three year field study was carried out at the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR), Benin City in 2009 to 2011 to investigate the effects of pruned Leucaena leucocephala (Lam) and Gliricidia sepium (Jacq) on earthworm activity, soil fertility and yield of food crops grown on oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) field. Treatments consisted of plots with Leucaena leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium hedgerows which were pruned before planting of food crops [maize (Zea mays) and cassava (Manihot esculenta)] and the control plot without hedgerow plants. The field layout was Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) in four replicates. Earthworm activity was measured by the quantity of earthworm casts deposited at the soil surface while maize and cassava were assessed by their yields. Results showed that pruned Leucaena leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium had significant effect on earthworm activity and yield of food crops. Total available N, K, Mg and organic carbon were significantly higher in earthworm casts from the hedgerow plots than those of the control plot. Maize and cassava yields were significantly higher in plots with pruned Leucaena leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium than with the control except, in 2009 where no significant difference was observed in the crop yields. Keywords: Hedgerow plants, Leucaena leucocephala, Gliricidia sepium, earthworm casts, crop yields.

138

EFFECTS OF LEGUMINOUS AND NON-LEGUMINOUS COVER CROPS

ON SOIL QAULITY AND MAIZE PERFORMANCE AT JALINGO,

TARABA STATE, NIGERIA

1Michael G. C*, S.O. Dania2 and N. Voncir3

1Department of Agronomy, Taraba State University, P.M.B 1167 Jalingo, Taraba, Nigeria

2Department of Soil Science, Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, Edo State Nigeria 3Department of Soil Science, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Nigeria


ABSTRACT Field experiments were conducted between 2007 and 2009 at the Taraba State College of Agriculture Teaching Farm, Jalingo, Nigeria to evaluate the effects of a leguminous cover crop, akidi (Vigna unquiculata sub-sp sequipedalis) and two non-leguminous cover crops (melon and sweet potato) used primarily for weed control, soil conservation and maize production. There were 11 treatments replicated three times in a randomized complete block design. The treatments included 20,000, 30,000 and 40,000 stands/ha of Akidi (A1, A2, A3), Melon (M1, M2, M3) and Sweet potato (S1, S2, S3), respectively, in addition to hand weeding (at 3 & 6 weeks after planting). The unweeded plot served as the control. Descriptive statistics and Analysis of Variance were used to analyse the data and the treatment means were separated using Fisher’s least significant difference at 5%. Results showed that between 2008 and 2009, there was a decline in exchangeable cations, P, soil pH, exchangeable acidity, effective cation exchange capacity (ECEC) and the silt proportion; but organic carbon, N and fine sand increased in all the treatments. The ECEC significantly (p<0.05) reduced by 43.4% in the akidi plot when compared with 20.8 and 26.5% recorded in melon and potato plots, respectively. Reduction in available P was highest in the akidi plots (87.5%) when compared with the other cover crops. Organic carbon significantly (p<0.05) increased in the potato (7.7%), akidi (6.9%) and melon plots (1.2%), but reduced by 22.4% in the unweeded plot. Similarly, nitrogen significantly (p<0.05) increased in the akidi (6.5%) and potato (7.7%) plots, but declined by 36.0% in the melon plot. Maize grain yields in the akidi plot (3.1 t/ha), melon (3.3 t/ha) and the potato plots (2.7 t/ha) were significantly (p<0.05) higher than the unweeded check (0.88 t/ha). It was concluded that planting akidi or sweet potato as cover crop could improve the organic carbon and nitrogen status of the soil and the yield of the component crop; but supplemental application of fertilizers containing Ca and P may be necessary for sustained production. Keywords: Cover crops, soil quality, maize yield.

139

INFLUENCE OF METEOROLOGICAL FLUCTUATION ON CROP

PRODUCTION ON A TYPIC ACRISOL IN UMUDIKE, ABIA STATE,

NIGERIA

Nwite, J. N.

Department of Soil Science and Environmental Management faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources Management, Ebonyi State University,

P.M.B 05, Abakaliki.

ABSTRACT

A study was carried out at National Root Crop Research Institute, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria in order to study influence of meteorological fluctuation on crop production in a Typic acrisol. The meteorological elements used were rainfall, sunshine, temperature, relative humidity and wind speed. Common staple crops and vegetables grown in the area such as yam, maize, cassava, cocoyam, okra, rice, sweet potato and pepper were focused on. Data were obtained for a period of ten years (1998-2008) from the meteorological elements and yield. These data were subjected to appropriate descriptive and inferential statistics. Line graphs were used to describe weather elements in order to ascertain trend of crop production within the period of study. Results obtained showed fluctuation of meteorological elements within period of study. Meteorological elements predicted highly (R2 = 0.84) significant influence on crop production. Combination of rainfall and sunshine or temperature (r = 0.802) and relative humidity and sunshine (r = 0.633) predicted significantlyprofound influence on crop yield. Yield variation on basic crops in Umudike is caused by changes in meteorological elements. Keywords: Influence, meteorological, fluctuation, crop production, Typic

Acrisol

140

Effect of Different Rates of Poultry Manure on Soil Properties and

Grain Yield of Maize at Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Nwite, J. N.

Department of Soil Science and Environmental Management, Faculty of

Agriculture and Natural Resources Management Ebony State University, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.

ABSTRACT

A study to determine effect of different rates of poultry manure on soil properties and grain yield of maize was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm of Faculty of Agriculture, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki. The experiment comprised of five treatments replicated four times in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Maize variety (Oba Super II) was used as a test crop. The result showed that poultry manure differed significantly higher from the control on soil aggregate stability. Similarly, poultry manures at different rates significantly increased soil organic matter, total nitrogen N, available phosphorous P and pH when compared with the control. Organic matter, total N, available P and pH were higher by 32, 42, 21 and 41% under plots amended with 12 t ha-1 poultry manures when compared with the control, respectively. Poultry manures increased calcium by 24% relative to control. The use of poultry manures is necessary to improve soil properties, but for higher grain yield of maize application rates greater than 12t ha-1 is recommended. Keywords: Maize, poultry manure rates, soil properties.

141

EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT RATES OF ORGANIC FERTILIZER ON THE

RESOURCE BASE OF AN ULTISOL IN OWERRI SOUTH-EASTERN

NIGERIA.

Nwokoro, C. C., Ogbede, K. I., Onyekwere, I. N., Udealor, A. and Mbe, J. O.

ABSTRACT Soils in the humid tropics are poor in organic matter and available nutrients; hence its productivity and sustainability decline over time when subjected to continuous cultivation. A research was conducted at the Federal University of Technology Owerri, Teaching and research farm in 2006 to determine the effects of rates of organic manure on soil resource base. Twenty soil samples were collected from the experimental site using soil auger at a depth of 0 – 30 cm before the experiment from which a composite soil sample was derived. After the experiment each of the plots were sampled at a depth of 0 – 30 cm. Both soils (pre and post experimental) and organic fertilizer were analyzed using the standard laboratory procedure. Organic fertilizer used for this study was poultry manure derived from deep litter system. Four levels of poultry manure (0, 1.5t/ha, 3t/ha and 4.5t/ha) were used. The experimental design was RCBD replicated three times. The field was ploughed and harrowed and then treatments were applied and allowed to decompose for eight months. The soil analytical result showed that the soil pH which was 4.5 before the study increased in all the treatment with the control having the least increase of 6.4% and the highest percentage increase was recorded by 4.5t/ha with 37.11% increase. The organic matter content of the soil before the experiment was 4.64%, and 1.5t/ha application had the least percentage increase (336.01%) while 4.5t/ha had the highest percentage increase (342.08%). 0.21% was the total nitrogen content of the soil before the experiment. After the experiment, apart from the control which had a decreased total nitrogen content (-52.38%), all other treatments increased the total nitrogen content of the soil. 3t/ha and 4.5t/ha had a total nitrogen percentage increase of 138.10% and 214.28% respectively. The available P content of the soil before the experiment was 23.00mg kg-1 and there was a decrease in P after the experiment across the treatments. K value before the experiment was 0.18 cmolkg-1 and reduced after the experiment across the treatments. Based on the findings of this study, it is inferred that 4.5t/ha of organic fertilizer is needed for soil quality amendment. To make available P and exchangeable K content in the soil readily available for plant uptake, an addition of little quantity of P and K inorganic fertilizer is needed. It is therefore recommended that organic fertilizer alone cannot maintain the soil resource base needed for immediate use by plants, rather the complementary use of organic and inorganic fertilizer is necessary based on the findings of this study. Keywords: Organic, fertilizer, ultisol, soil resource base.

142

Impediments to farming in the flood plain of cross river, Itu, Akwa

Ibom state, Nigeria

Udoh, Victor S.

Department of Services, Cross River Basin Development Authority, Calabar, Cross River State

E-mail: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

A study was conducted at Cross River Basin plain located in Ayadehe, Itu Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State to assess impediments to farming in the area. Data on river level were obtained at different points from 2008 to 2012. In September 2008 the highest water level was 99.78m.It rose to 110.36m in 2009, and 131.99m in 2012. In October 2010 the water level was 116.78m while it increased to 127.41m in 2011. Cross River also differed in the perennial discharge of excess water into the flood plain at peak of the raining season. In July 2008, water level in the flood plain was 86.31m, while it was 69.31m in 2009, 60.50m in 2011 and 98.49m in 2012 which indicated peak river levels compared to 65.87m recorded in August, 2010. Annual river levels increased in 2008 to 2009 by 1.4%, and by 4.3% in 2010 to 2011, and by 11% in 2011 to 2012. Thus, the lowest were in 2009 to 2010 (1.4%). The study indicated July as the peak period of flooding which occurs through August to October each year. This seasonal flooding is a serious impediment to farming in the flood plain. Keywords: Farming, flood plain, water level, Cross River Basin, Itu.

143

Spatial variability of soil chemical properties under different

agricultural land utilization types in Umuchu, Anambra State

Umeojiakor1, A. O., Akinbola2, G. E. and Ibe1, A. E.

1Department of Forestry and Wildlife Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria

2Department of Agronomy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria

E-mail: [email protected] ABSTRACT

Good knowledge of soil properties is an essential factor for evaluating land use and making agronomic decision. The objective of this study was to investigate the changes in the chemical properties of soils under different agricultural land utilization types in Umuchu, Anambra State. The four land utilization types are: Oil palm plantation farm, cassava dominated farm, yam/maize intercrop farm and two-year fallow land were studied. Four samples were collected each from the different study sites at the depth of 0-15cm, summing up a total of sixteen samples in all. The soil samples were air-dried, sieved with a 2mm sieve and analysed for selected chemical properties. The variability in selected soil chemical properties estimated using analysis of variance and differences in means separated using least significant differences (LSD). The relationship between some chemical properties was estimated using correlation and these were tested at values of P < 0.05 and P < 0.01 for significant differences. Soil pH in water was slightly acidic with the highest mean value of 6.03 found in yam/maize intercrop farm and moderately acidic in 2-year fallow land with least value of 5.54. Organic matter content was fairly low in all the sites with the highest mean value of 2.141% found in oil palm plantation farm and the least value of 1.54% found in the 2-year fallow land. Oil palm plantation farm as a treatment showed variability against the other three land utilization types in all the selected soil chemical properties used. The results suggest that soils of all the study sites are less fertile and appropriate management practices should be considered for increasing soil sustainability and productivity. Keywords: Spatial variability, land utilization types, management practices sustainability, productivity.

144

Residual effects of organic and NPK fertilizer on Maize Performance at

different soil pH Levels

B.O. Unagwu*, C.L.A. Asadu, and P. I. Ezeaku

Department of Soil Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.

* Correspondence author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Field study was carried out in 2012 to evaluate the residual effects of combined rates of poultry manure (PM) and NPK 15-15-15 fertilizers on responses of maize (Zea mays L.) in a soil limed to different pH levels. The treatments were four levels of soil pH [ 5.5 (control), pH 6.0, pH 6.5and pH 7.0] and six combinations of PM and NPK 15-15-15 fertilizer: T1 (200 kg/ha NPK + 6 t/ha PM); T2 (300 kg/ha NPK + 4 t/ha PM), T3 (400 kg t/ha NPK + 2 t/ha PM); T4 (400 t/ha NPK only), T5 (8 t/ha PM only) and T6 (Control i.e. 0 NPK + 0 PM) arranged in a 6 x 4 factorial in randomized complete block design (RBCD) with three replications. The results showed that Treatment T2 (8 t/ha PM only) significantly (P < 0.05) gave the highest dry matter yield while T2 (300 kg/ha NPK + 4 t/ha PM) had the least dry matter yield. Liming also increased the maize dry yield with soil limed to pH 6.0 having the highest dry matter. It was therefore concluded that for second season planting, maize can be efficiently produced in sandy loam ultisols previously applied with treatments T5 (8t/ha PM) and limed to pH 6.0. Keywords: Soil pH, maize, fertilizer, poultry manure.

145

Effect of Some “Live” and “Mixed Dry Organic”Mulches on Selected Soil

Physical and Chemical Properties and Yields of Two Cocoyam (Xanthosoma

sagittifolium (L.) Schott) Cultivars in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Usuah, P. E. and *Amalu, U. C. Department of Soil Science, University of Uyo, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Department of Soil Science, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State,

Nigeria. *Correspondences: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

The effects of some “Live“ and “Mixed Dry Organic” mulches on selected soil physical and chemical properties and yields of two types of cocoyam – the old cocoyam (Colocasia esculenta) and new cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) were studied in Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria. The treatments comprised melon (Citrullus

vulgaris), fluted-pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis),, dwarf okra (Abelmoschus

esculentus), groundnut (Arachis hypogeae), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), and soybean (Glycine soja), as live mulches; and mixture of dry vegetative parts of various grasses, as mixed dry vegetative mulch, and bare-surface plots, as control. The eight treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design and replicated three times. As expected and regardless of the type of crop variety, the mixed dry organic and live mulches generally lowered soil temperatures, while the temperatures rose considerably in the control plots. The mean moisture contents of the control plots dropped slightly at the termination of the experiment while there were general increases in the mean moisture contents of soils under the various mulching treatments, but excepting the trends obtained in plots covered with Okra crops. Organic carbon contents decreased significantly in the control plots (mean value of 10.2 g kg-1) compared with the pre-trial values of 14.0 g kg-1; while it increased in varying degrees in the plots that received either various live or mixed-dry mulches compared with the values in the control plots. Both live and mixed-dry mulches increased soil total nitrogen in the old and new cocoyam plots. Similarly, mixed dry and live-organic mulches increased yields of corms and cormels compared with the yields in control plots, but yield increases over the control were higher for cormels than for corms. Melon, cowpea, and groundnut crops, in decreasing order of contributions, have shown great promise as live mulch crops in cocoyam fields, compared with the mixed-dry organic materials commonly used to mulch cocoyam farms by farmers of the area.

Keywords: Mulches, soil properties, Cocoyam yield, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

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