Yield evaluation of yellow cassava varieties as affected by inorganic fertilizer in two agro ecological zones of Nigeria

Abstract

Field experiment was conducted at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture Ibadan and Ikene substation during the 2012 rainy season to study the effect of variety and Crystallizer fertilizer on the yield of four yellow cassava varieties. Four (4) IITA yellow cassava varieties (IITA TMS 01/1368, IITA TMS 01/1371 and IITA TMS01/1412 and IITA TMS 01/1593), were tested at three different rates (0 kgha-1, 400 kgha-1kg/ha and 600 kgha-1) in split plot fitted to RCBD. Data collected on yield parameters were analyzed using ANOVA and means were separated with Least Significant Difference. The varieties TMS01/1371 and TMS01/1412 significantly (P≤0.05) produced highest fresh tuber yield of (9.33tonsha-1) and (8.99tonsha-1) at Ibadan and Ikene respectively. The variety TMS 01/1593 significantly (P <0.05) produced highest dry matter content (35.50%) and total carotene value (7) of all the yellow cassava varieties in Ibadan. It was concluded, that since the variety TMS01/1593 produced highest total carotene content (7.00) and dry matter content (35.50%), it can therefore be recommended for cultivation and consumption in Ibadan to increase the quantity of cassava products and enhance vitamin A intake. Since TMS01/1371 produced the highest fresh tuber yield of (9.33tonsha-1) without the application of Crystallizer fertilizer in Ibadan, it can be cultivated in Ibadan to obtain 9.33tonsha-1fresh. A further research is recommended to determine the rates of Crystallizer fertilizer to increase yields obtainable in both locations.