Title : Seasonal Grain Yield Variations and Poultry Manure Optimization for Hybrid Maize in a Derived Savanna
Abstract:
Maize is a vital crop for food security and economic growth in Nigeria, but declining yields due to low nitrogen levels and expensive fertilizers pose challenges for farmers. To address this, the study explores the use of cost-effective and nutrient-rich poultry manure as an organic fertilizer. Two trials were conducted during the early and late seasons in 2014 at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. The experiment utilized a randomized complete block design with five maize hybrids and poultry manure rates of 0, 5, 10, and 15 tonnes per hectare. The results revealed that applying 15 t/ha of poultry manure led to the longest cob (23.1 cm) and optimum grain yield (2.4 t ha-1), with the hybrid TZEI 124 × TZEI 25 demonstrating the best overall grain yield (2.3 t ha-1). The study emphasizes the significance of fertility management, nutrient availability, genotype selection, and agronomic practices in optimizing maize yield and grain quality in the derived savanna. The findings have practical implications for farmers, contributing to improved crop management decisions and enhanced agricultural productivity in the region. Further research is recommended to explore other factors impacting grain yield in hybrid maize for sustainable and productive cultivation in the derived savanna and similar agroecological zones.
Keywords: Poultry manure; hybrid maize; yield components
In this presentation, the audience will learn about the effects of utilizing poultry waste on the growth and yield components of hybrid maize. The following specific items will be covered:
- Understanding the impact of poultry waste on maize growth: The presentation will delve into the experimental results, highlighting how the application of poultry waste affects various growth parameters of hybrid maize. This will include factors like plant height, leaf area, stem diameter, and overall plant vigour.
- Exploring the effects on yield components: The audience will gain insights into the influence of poultry waste on the yield components of hybrid maize, such as the cob length, and overall yield per hectare. The presentation will provide statistical data and discuss the significance of these findings.
- Practical application and benefits for the audience: The presentation will explain how the audience can utilize the research findings in their own work. It will outline practical guidelines for incorporating poultry waste into maize cultivation practices, including recommended application rates and techniques. By implementing these methods, the audience will be able to enhance hybrid maize growth and optimize yield in their own agricultural endeavours.
