Kinfe Tekulu, Weldegebriel Gebrehiwot, Gebresemaeti Kahsu, T. Tadele, T. Berhe, Solomon Mebrahtom
Recently, the beauty of the environment, native forest plants, and crops were encroached with invasive weeds, and thus scientific community was concerned with searching for optional management of these horrible weeds. Accordingly, vermicomposting of invasive weeds with the purpose of utilization management was evaluated as an alternative option and cost-effective management. Utilization management included keeping the environment safe from expanding invasive weeds by using these weeds as vermicomposting materials. Consequently, vermicompost was produced from L. camara invasive weed and this produced vermicompost was interactively used with chemical fertilizer to appraise its effect on soil chemical properties after the tef crop was harvested. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) in a factorial combination with three replications. Four levels of L. camara vermicompost amendment (0, 2, 4, and 6 t·ha−1) and four levels of NPS fertilizer (0, 100, 150, and 200 kg·ha−1) were used in the combination of the treatments. Disturbed composite soil sampling at a depth of 20 cm was carried out, one sample before planting and 48 samples after harvesting of the tef crop. The results showed that the combined addition of vermicompost and NPS fertilizers at the rate of 6 t·ha−1 and 200 kg·ha−1, respectively, significantly increased plant-available phosphorus (Av. P). Reversely, the pH of the soil remained unchanged when the soil was treated with the integration of vermicompost and NPS fertilizer or at their separate individual application. Most of the soil chemical properties, i.e. soil organic carbon (SOC), electrical conductivity (EC), Av. P, total nitrogen (TN), carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (C : N), and cation exchange capacity (CEC) were found to be improved when the soil was amended with the highest dose of sole L. camara vermicompost fertilizer. The two-year consecutive organic fertilizer fertilization rate increased SOC from 63.64% to 107.56%, EC from 8.70% to 22.22%, Av. P from 40.87% to 143.13%, TN from 50% to 100%, C : N ratio from 8.14% to 11.58%, and CEC from 42.11% to 63.67% versus untreated plot. Single-application NPS chemical fertilizer has only an encouraging effect on Av. P and CEC of soil. The principal driving factor for any change in soil chemical properties was the L. camara vermicompost amendment. Therefore, using L. camara weed as a vermicompost can enhance soil fertility. This study offers the opportunity to convert the large biomass of L. camara weed into vermicompost through vermicomposting.
{"title":"Response of Soil Chemical Properties under Tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) Field to Integrated Application of Lantana camara L. Weed Vermicompost and NPS Mineral Fertilizer","authors":"Kinfe Tekulu, Weldegebriel Gebrehiwot, Gebresemaeti Kahsu, T. Tadele, T. Berhe, Solomon Mebrahtom","doi":"10.1155/2024/8814314","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/8814314","url":null,"abstract":"Recently, the beauty of the environment, native forest plants, and crops were encroached with invasive weeds, and thus scientific community was concerned with searching for optional management of these horrible weeds. Accordingly, vermicomposting of invasive weeds with the purpose of utilization management was evaluated as an alternative option and cost-effective management. Utilization management included keeping the environment safe from expanding invasive weeds by using these weeds as vermicomposting materials. Consequently, vermicompost was produced from L. camara invasive weed and this produced vermicompost was interactively used with chemical fertilizer to appraise its effect on soil chemical properties after the tef crop was harvested. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) in a factorial combination with three replications. Four levels of L. camara vermicompost amendment (0, 2, 4, and 6 t·ha−1) and four levels of NPS fertilizer (0, 100, 150, and 200 kg·ha−1) were used in the combination of the treatments. Disturbed composite soil sampling at a depth of 20 cm was carried out, one sample before planting and 48 samples after harvesting of the tef crop. The results showed that the combined addition of vermicompost and NPS fertilizers at the rate of 6 t·ha−1 and 200 kg·ha−1, respectively, significantly increased plant-available phosphorus (Av. P). Reversely, the pH of the soil remained unchanged when the soil was treated with the integration of vermicompost and NPS fertilizer or at their separate individual application. Most of the soil chemical properties, i.e. soil organic carbon (SOC), electrical conductivity (EC), Av. P, total nitrogen (TN), carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (C : N), and cation exchange capacity (CEC) were found to be improved when the soil was amended with the highest dose of sole L. camara vermicompost fertilizer. The two-year consecutive organic fertilizer fertilization rate increased SOC from 63.64% to 107.56%, EC from 8.70% to 22.22%, Av. P from 40.87% to 143.13%, TN from 50% to 100%, C : N ratio from 8.14% to 11.58%, and CEC from 42.11% to 63.67% versus untreated plot. Single-application NPS chemical fertilizer has only an encouraging effect on Av. P and CEC of soil. The principal driving factor for any change in soil chemical properties was the L. camara vermicompost amendment. Therefore, using L. camara weed as a vermicompost can enhance soil fertility. This study offers the opportunity to convert the large biomass of L. camara weed into vermicompost through vermicomposting.","PeriodicalId":503132,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Agronomy","volume":"17 21","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141118562","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Lack of improved varieties and soil fertility degradation are among the major factors that limit durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L.) production in Ethiopia. The objectives of this study were to determine the response of durum wheat cultivars (i) to nitrogen, phosphorus, sulphur, and boron (NPSB) fertilizer blend; (ii) rust infection; and (iii) partial budget analysis using NPSB fertilizer blend. A 2-location experiment was conducted in 2021 in South Ethiopia to evaluate the response of 4 durum wheat genotypes to blended NPSB fertilizer rates in a randomized complete block design in a 4 × 4 factorial arrangement. The results showed significant (P<0.05) differences due to genotypes (G), rate of NPSB fertilizer (F), and location (E) for all the parameters. The effects due to the G × F × E interaction were significant (P<0.05) for the number of total tillers, number of productive tillers, and grain yield (GY). A significant (P<0.05) G × E interaction was observed for the majority of parameters except days to 50% heading and plant height. Durum wheat genotype S3-213037 produced the highest grain yield of 3689.3 kg·ha−1 when NPSB fertilizer was applied at a rate of 225 kg·ha−1 at Adekoysha. Moreover, partial budget analysis indicated that genotype S3-213037 accrued a maximum benefit of 112,986.50 birr·ha−1 and the highest marginal rate of return of 1356.4% when NPSB fertilizer was applied at a rate of 225 kg·ha−1. Therefore, this study indicated that the application of an NPSB fertilizer rate of 225 kg·ha−1 could be used in the production of durum wheat in the East African region with similar agroecologies to the study area.
{"title":"Response of Durum Wheat (Triticum durum L.) Genotypes to Blended NPSB Fertilizer Rates and Wheat Rust Diseases in Southern Ethiopia","authors":"Hana Daniel, Belay Yebo, Mesfin Kebede","doi":"10.1155/2024/9521274","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/9521274","url":null,"abstract":"Lack of improved varieties and soil fertility degradation are among the major factors that limit durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L.) production in Ethiopia. The objectives of this study were to determine the response of durum wheat cultivars (i) to nitrogen, phosphorus, sulphur, and boron (NPSB) fertilizer blend; (ii) rust infection; and (iii) partial budget analysis using NPSB fertilizer blend. A 2-location experiment was conducted in 2021 in South Ethiopia to evaluate the response of 4 durum wheat genotypes to blended NPSB fertilizer rates in a randomized complete block design in a 4 × 4 factorial arrangement. The results showed significant (P<0.05) differences due to genotypes (G), rate of NPSB fertilizer (F), and location (E) for all the parameters. The effects due to the G × F × E interaction were significant (P<0.05) for the number of total tillers, number of productive tillers, and grain yield (GY). A significant (P<0.05) G × E interaction was observed for the majority of parameters except days to 50% heading and plant height. Durum wheat genotype S3-213037 produced the highest grain yield of 3689.3 kg·ha−1 when NPSB fertilizer was applied at a rate of 225 kg·ha−1 at Adekoysha. Moreover, partial budget analysis indicated that genotype S3-213037 accrued a maximum benefit of 112,986.50 birr·ha−1 and the highest marginal rate of return of 1356.4% when NPSB fertilizer was applied at a rate of 225 kg·ha−1. Therefore, this study indicated that the application of an NPSB fertilizer rate of 225 kg·ha−1 could be used in the production of durum wheat in the East African region with similar agroecologies to the study area.","PeriodicalId":503132,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Agronomy","volume":"48 6","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141114703","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Berhanu Bilate Daemo, Getahun Bore Wolancho, Dawit Dalga Wakalto
Soil fertility decline is a significant factor affecting crop production. In a specific area, fertilizer application for a crop depends on soil type and profitability. Moreover, optimizing chemical fertilizer utilization in crop production is crucial from both environmental and economic perspectives. However, there is limited information available on the optimum NPSB fertilizer rate for common bean production in the study area. Thus, the study aimed to establish area-specific NPSB fertilizer rate recommendations for optimal grain yield and profitability of common bean. The field experiment was conducted in two locations in the 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons. The treatments included 0, 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150, 175, and 200 kg·ha−1 NPSB fertilizer rates, and they were planted using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The combined location analysis of variance indicated that the application of NPSB fertilizer significantly influenced plant height, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, hundred-seed weight, biomass yield, grain yield, and harvest index. The highest grain yields (2815 kg·ha−1 and 3433 kg·ha−1) were recorded with the application of a 125 kg·ha−1 NPSB blended fertilizer rate, while the lowest grain yields (1429 kg·ha−1 and 1500 kg·ha−1) were produced from the nonfertilizer applied plot in Deneba and Wara, respectively. The combined location mean showed that the maximum grain yield (3124 kg·ha−1), followed by 2710 kg·ha−1, was produced by the application of 125 and 100 kg·ha−1 NPSB fertilizer rates, respectively. The data indicate that raising the NPSB fertilizer rate from 0 to 125 kg·ha−1 would greatly boost grain yield in the common bean in both locations in a similar manner. The economic analysis revealed that applying 125 kg·ha−1 of NPSB fertilizer earned the highest net benefits (140453.2 ETB·ha−1) with the highest marginal rate of return (1745.26%). Therefore, for high yield and profitability of common bean, a rate of 125 kg·ha−1 NPSB fertilizer is suggested in the study area and similar agro-ecological zones.
{"title":"Determination of the Appropriate Blended Inorganic Fertilizer Rate Recommendation for the Optimal Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Grain Yield and Profitability in the Dawuro Zone, Ethiopia","authors":"Berhanu Bilate Daemo, Getahun Bore Wolancho, Dawit Dalga Wakalto","doi":"10.1155/2024/7169608","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/7169608","url":null,"abstract":"Soil fertility decline is a significant factor affecting crop production. In a specific area, fertilizer application for a crop depends on soil type and profitability. Moreover, optimizing chemical fertilizer utilization in crop production is crucial from both environmental and economic perspectives. However, there is limited information available on the optimum NPSB fertilizer rate for common bean production in the study area. Thus, the study aimed to establish area-specific NPSB fertilizer rate recommendations for optimal grain yield and profitability of common bean. The field experiment was conducted in two locations in the 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons. The treatments included 0, 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150, 175, and 200 kg·ha−1 NPSB fertilizer rates, and they were planted using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The combined location analysis of variance indicated that the application of NPSB fertilizer significantly influenced plant height, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, hundred-seed weight, biomass yield, grain yield, and harvest index. The highest grain yields (2815 kg·ha−1 and 3433 kg·ha−1) were recorded with the application of a 125 kg·ha−1 NPSB blended fertilizer rate, while the lowest grain yields (1429 kg·ha−1 and 1500 kg·ha−1) were produced from the nonfertilizer applied plot in Deneba and Wara, respectively. The combined location mean showed that the maximum grain yield (3124 kg·ha−1), followed by 2710 kg·ha−1, was produced by the application of 125 and 100 kg·ha−1 NPSB fertilizer rates, respectively. The data indicate that raising the NPSB fertilizer rate from 0 to 125 kg·ha−1 would greatly boost grain yield in the common bean in both locations in a similar manner. The economic analysis revealed that applying 125 kg·ha−1 of NPSB fertilizer earned the highest net benefits (140453.2 ETB·ha−1) with the highest marginal rate of return (1745.26%). Therefore, for high yield and profitability of common bean, a rate of 125 kg·ha−1 NPSB fertilizer is suggested in the study area and similar agro-ecological zones.","PeriodicalId":503132,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Agronomy","volume":"98 10","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141122703","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Fantahun Dereje, A. Mengistu, D. Geleti, D. Diba, Fekede Feyissa
The introduction of improved forage varieties could play a crucial role in meeting the growing demand for livestock and livestock products in Ethiopia. However, different cultivars exhibit varied performance. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the performance of Brachiaria cultivars and other grass cultivars in two subhumid agroecological areas of Ethiopia. Four Brachiaria cultivars (B. brizantha (DZF-13379), B. humidicola (DZF-9222), B. decumbens (DZF-10871), and B. mutica (var. DZF-483), and two local grass cultivars, Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana var. Massaba) and Desho grass (Pennisetum glaucifolium var. Kindu Kosha), were evaluated in Bako and Bishoftu for three years during the rainy season. The experiment was carried out using a completely randomized block design. Results indicated that both cultivars and years had significant (P<0.001) effects on herbage dry matter (DM) yield, crude protein (CP) yield, and plant height, whereas location only affected DM yield. Significant cultivar × year interactions were observed for DM yield, CP yield, and plant height, while cultivar × location interactions had a significant effect on all parameters except for CP yield. Additionally, cultivars significantly (P<0.001) impacted the in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) as well as the nutritional content (CP, ash, acid detergent lignin (ADL), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF). Overall, all cultivars demonstrated potential as alternative ruminant feeds, with B. mutica, followed by B. brizantha, showing superior performance in the subhumid agroecological areas of Ethiopia.
引进改良牧草品种可在满足埃塞俄比亚日益增长的牲畜和畜产品需求方面发挥关键作用。然而，不同的栽培品种表现出不同的性能。因此，本研究旨在评估在埃塞俄比亚两个亚湿润农业生态区种植的禾本科牧草和其他牧草品种的表现。四种婆婆纳栽培品种（B. brizantha (DZF-13379)、B. humidicola (DZF-9222)、B. decumbens (DZF-10871) 和 B. mutica (var. DZF-483)）以及两种当地草栽培品种罗得草（Chloris gayana var.Massaba）和 Desho 草（Pennisetum glaucifolium var.试验采用完全随机区组设计。结果表明，栽培品种和年份对牧草干物质（DM）产量、粗蛋白（CP）产量和株高都有显著影响（P<0.001），而地点只影响 DM 产量。在 DM 产量、CP 产量和株高方面观察到了栽培品种 × 年份的显著交互作用，而栽培品种 × 地点的交互作用对除 CP 产量以外的所有参数都有显著影响。此外，栽培品种对体外干物质消化率（IVDMD）和营养成分（CP、灰分、酸性洗涤木质素（ADL）、中性洗涤纤维（NDF）和酸性洗涤纤维（ADF））也有显著影响（P<0.001）。总体而言，所有栽培品种都显示出作为反刍动物替代饲料的潜力，其中 B. mutica 在埃塞俄比亚亚湿润农业生态区的表现更优，其次是 B. brizantha。
{"title":"Herbage Yield and Nutritive Value of Selected Grasses in Subhumid Agroecological Environments in Ethiopia","authors":"Fantahun Dereje, A. Mengistu, D. Geleti, D. Diba, Fekede Feyissa","doi":"10.1155/2024/6170361","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/6170361","url":null,"abstract":"The introduction of improved forage varieties could play a crucial role in meeting the growing demand for livestock and livestock products in Ethiopia. However, different cultivars exhibit varied performance. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the performance of Brachiaria cultivars and other grass cultivars in two subhumid agroecological areas of Ethiopia. Four Brachiaria cultivars (B. brizantha (DZF-13379), B. humidicola (DZF-9222), B. decumbens (DZF-10871), and B. mutica (var. DZF-483), and two local grass cultivars, Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana var. Massaba) and Desho grass (Pennisetum glaucifolium var. Kindu Kosha), were evaluated in Bako and Bishoftu for three years during the rainy season. The experiment was carried out using a completely randomized block design. Results indicated that both cultivars and years had significant (P<0.001) effects on herbage dry matter (DM) yield, crude protein (CP) yield, and plant height, whereas location only affected DM yield. Significant cultivar × year interactions were observed for DM yield, CP yield, and plant height, while cultivar × location interactions had a significant effect on all parameters except for CP yield. Additionally, cultivars significantly (P<0.001) impacted the in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) as well as the nutritional content (CP, ash, acid detergent lignin (ADL), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF). Overall, all cultivars demonstrated potential as alternative ruminant feeds, with B. mutica, followed by B. brizantha, showing superior performance in the subhumid agroecological areas of Ethiopia.","PeriodicalId":503132,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Agronomy","volume":" 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140990750","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Weeds significantly hinder mung bean production in Ethiopia. A field experiment conducted during the 2022 cropping season in Guragie Zone investigated the impact of pre- and post-emergence herbicides on weed control and mung bean (Vigna radiata (L.)) yield. The experiment utilized a randomized complete block design with three replicates and four treatments. The study revealed that the interaction between location and weed control methods significantly influenced weed density, dry weight, and control efficiency. Additionally, location and weed control methods significantly affected various mung bean growth parameters, including days to flowering and maturity, plant height, pod and seed numbers per plant, and grain yield. Meskan Wordea produced significantly higher pods per plant (14.4) and seeds per pod (9.73). Meanwhile, the weed-free check yielded the maximum number of pods per plant (20.38) and seeds per pod (11.68). Conversely, the weedy check exhibited the lowest values (7.17 pods and 6.43 seeds per pod). The weed-free check also achieved the highest grain yield (1412.9 kg ha−1), aboveground dry biomass (3309.2 kg ha−1), and harvest index (42.94%). Conversely, the weedy check yielded the lowest values. Financial analysis revealed that the combined application of Quizalofop-p-ethyl + Bentazone herbicide in Ezeha location resulted in the highest net profit (33602.3 ETB ha−1). Therefore, for optimal mung bean growth and yield in the study area, we recommend planting the Rasa variety with Quizalofop-p-ethyl + Bentazone herbicide in Ezeha location.
{"title":"Effect of Quizalofop-p-ethyl + Bentazone and Pendimethalin Herbicides on Weeds, Yield Components, and Yield of Mung Bean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek) in Guragie Zone, South Central Ethiopia","authors":"G. Mekonnen, Worku Mengesha, G. Wolde","doi":"10.1155/2024/9393014","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/9393014","url":null,"abstract":"Weeds significantly hinder mung bean production in Ethiopia. A field experiment conducted during the 2022 cropping season in Guragie Zone investigated the impact of pre- and post-emergence herbicides on weed control and mung bean (Vigna radiata (L.)) yield. The experiment utilized a randomized complete block design with three replicates and four treatments. The study revealed that the interaction between location and weed control methods significantly influenced weed density, dry weight, and control efficiency. Additionally, location and weed control methods significantly affected various mung bean growth parameters, including days to flowering and maturity, plant height, pod and seed numbers per plant, and grain yield. Meskan Wordea produced significantly higher pods per plant (14.4) and seeds per pod (9.73). Meanwhile, the weed-free check yielded the maximum number of pods per plant (20.38) and seeds per pod (11.68). Conversely, the weedy check exhibited the lowest values (7.17 pods and 6.43 seeds per pod). The weed-free check also achieved the highest grain yield (1412.9 kg ha−1), aboveground dry biomass (3309.2 kg ha−1), and harvest index (42.94%). Conversely, the weedy check yielded the lowest values. Financial analysis revealed that the combined application of Quizalofop-p-ethyl + Bentazone herbicide in Ezeha location resulted in the highest net profit (33602.3 ETB ha−1). Therefore, for optimal mung bean growth and yield in the study area, we recommend planting the Rasa variety with Quizalofop-p-ethyl + Bentazone herbicide in Ezeha location.","PeriodicalId":503132,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Agronomy","volume":"15 38","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141020244","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
K. Kalsa, S. Kolech, M. Worku, Tsedeke Abate, A. Teklewold
Smallholder farmers’ access to and use of quality seeds of improved varieties and hybrids is an integral component of sustainable maize production and the reduction of the yield gap in Ethiopia. Formal seed supply systems play a pivotal role in ensuring farmers’ access to good quality seed and increasing the productivity of maize. However, the contribution of the formal seed system to the increase in the average national maize yield in the country is not well documented. This paper specifically analyzes the formal seed supply systems and contributions of improved seed to maize productivity increase in Ethiopia. Secondary sources of information, including published and unpublished data, were used. Analysis of the seed value chain from research to commercial seed producers indicated that public and private maize hybrids dominate the formal seed system. Increased use of improved seed and associated management practices has contributed to the yield increase at the national level. For every 10,000 MT of additional maize-improved seed used by smallholder farmers, the national average maize yield increased by 400 kg per hectare (R sq. = 0.59). Hence, in addition to other yield-increasing technologies and extension support, ensuring the availability of improved seed to farmers can significantly contribute to reducing the maize yield gap between the national average yield and the average yield from on-farm demonstrations already attained by farmers in Ethiopia. Various policy interventions are suggested to improve the maize seed system performance and increase the supply of maize improved seeds.
{"title":"The Formal Seed System of Maize in Ethiopia: Implications for Reducing the Yield Gap","authors":"K. Kalsa, S. Kolech, M. Worku, Tsedeke Abate, A. Teklewold","doi":"10.1155/2024/2135433","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/2135433","url":null,"abstract":"Smallholder farmers’ access to and use of quality seeds of improved varieties and hybrids is an integral component of sustainable maize production and the reduction of the yield gap in Ethiopia. Formal seed supply systems play a pivotal role in ensuring farmers’ access to good quality seed and increasing the productivity of maize. However, the contribution of the formal seed system to the increase in the average national maize yield in the country is not well documented. This paper specifically analyzes the formal seed supply systems and contributions of improved seed to maize productivity increase in Ethiopia. Secondary sources of information, including published and unpublished data, were used. Analysis of the seed value chain from research to commercial seed producers indicated that public and private maize hybrids dominate the formal seed system. Increased use of improved seed and associated management practices has contributed to the yield increase at the national level. For every 10,000 MT of additional maize-improved seed used by smallholder farmers, the national average maize yield increased by 400 kg per hectare (R sq. = 0.59). Hence, in addition to other yield-increasing technologies and extension support, ensuring the availability of improved seed to farmers can significantly contribute to reducing the maize yield gap between the national average yield and the average yield from on-farm demonstrations already attained by farmers in Ethiopia. Various policy interventions are suggested to improve the maize seed system performance and increase the supply of maize improved seeds.","PeriodicalId":503132,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Agronomy","volume":"30 41","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140358505","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
An initial investigation into the utilization of recycled plant and animal residues as soil amendments (SAs), including compost, biochar, and soil conditioner, was conducted using alfalfa crops. This study evaluated the impact of SAs on alfalfa seed germination, resulting in an 87% germination rate for biochar, 82% for soil conditioner, and 82% for compost. In comparison, untreated seeds displayed a 78% germination rate. After successful germination, the SAs were employed to enhance soil health, with a focus on water conservation and increased forage yield. The study used sandy-textured soil with moderate alkalinity, very slight salinity, slight calcareousness, and high permeability. The germination trial confirmed that SAs usage did not hinder seed germination, even for salt-sensitive crops like alfalfa. Two field experiments were carried out in Al-Wafra, using different application rates of compost, biochar, and soil conditioner at 5, 7.5, and 10 tons per hectare. The results highlighted the positive impact of SAs application on increasing forage production, with varying degrees of enhancement, and confirmed a 40% reduction in water usage compared to treatment without SAs but under 100% irrigation (100% ETc). In conclusion, SAs show promising potential for local forages intensification and water conservation.
利用紫花苜蓿作物对回收的动植物残留物作为土壤改良剂（SA）（包括堆肥、生物炭和土壤改良剂）的利用情况进行了初步调查。这项研究评估了土壤改良剂对紫花苜蓿种子发芽的影响，结果显示生物炭的发芽率为 87%，土壤改良剂为 82%，堆肥为 82%。相比之下，未经处理的种子发芽率为 78%。发芽成功后，使用 SAs 增强土壤健康，重点是节水和提高饲料产量。这项研究使用的土壤为沙质土壤，碱度适中，盐度极低，石灰度低，透气性高。发芽试验证实，使用 SAs 不会妨碍种子发芽，即使是对盐敏感的作物，如紫花苜蓿。在 Al-Wafra 进行了两项田间试验，使用了堆肥、生物炭和土壤改良剂的不同施用量，分别为每公顷 5 吨、7.5 吨和 10 吨。实验结果表明，施用 SAs 对提高牧草产量有积极影响，并有不同程度的提高，而且与不施用 SAs 但进行 100% 灌溉（100% ETc）的处理相比，用水量减少了 40%。总之，SAs 在当地饲草强化和节水方面显示出巨大的潜力。
{"title":"Investigating the Effects of Various Soil Amendments on Forages Production in the Field","authors":"Hana’a Burezq","doi":"10.1155/2024/6355929","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/6355929","url":null,"abstract":"An initial investigation into the utilization of recycled plant and animal residues as soil amendments (SAs), including compost, biochar, and soil conditioner, was conducted using alfalfa crops. This study evaluated the impact of SAs on alfalfa seed germination, resulting in an 87% germination rate for biochar, 82% for soil conditioner, and 82% for compost. In comparison, untreated seeds displayed a 78% germination rate. After successful germination, the SAs were employed to enhance soil health, with a focus on water conservation and increased forage yield. The study used sandy-textured soil with moderate alkalinity, very slight salinity, slight calcareousness, and high permeability. The germination trial confirmed that SAs usage did not hinder seed germination, even for salt-sensitive crops like alfalfa. Two field experiments were carried out in Al-Wafra, using different application rates of compost, biochar, and soil conditioner at 5, 7.5, and 10 tons per hectare. The results highlighted the positive impact of SAs application on increasing forage production, with varying degrees of enhancement, and confirmed a 40% reduction in water usage compared to treatment without SAs but under 100% irrigation (100% ETc). In conclusion, SAs show promising potential for local forages intensification and water conservation.","PeriodicalId":503132,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Agronomy","volume":"17 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140361402","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
In the last two decades, the electromagnetic field of the microwave range has been successfully introduced into various branches of the agribusiness industry as one of the most promising and advanced technologies for drying manufactured products. In this regard, the article proposes a new microwave irradiation technique for drying various objects based on a surface waveguide’s properties. The paper analyses the main links that make up the surface waveguide as a microwave irradiation system and shows the ways of their implementation. The article describes the advantages of applying a vibratory device for exciting a surface wave, using a re-emitting antenna array, and operating a single conductor with a dielectric coating as a surface waveguide. Such advantages make it possible to introduce microwave drying units with the required distribution of electromagnetic field energy along the irradiated material, small dimensions, high drying quality, and low price.
{"title":"Application of a Surface Waveguide in Microwave Drying Units of the Agribusiness Industry","authors":"E. Ritter, Alexey Savostin, Dmitriy Ritter, Galina Savostina, Andrey Smirnov, Sayat Moldakhmetov","doi":"10.1155/2024/3689527","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/3689527","url":null,"abstract":"In the last two decades, the electromagnetic field of the microwave range has been successfully introduced into various branches of the agribusiness industry as one of the most promising and advanced technologies for drying manufactured products. In this regard, the article proposes a new microwave irradiation technique for drying various objects based on a surface waveguide’s properties. The paper analyses the main links that make up the surface waveguide as a microwave irradiation system and shows the ways of their implementation. The article describes the advantages of applying a vibratory device for exciting a surface wave, using a re-emitting antenna array, and operating a single conductor with a dielectric coating as a surface waveguide. Such advantages make it possible to introduce microwave drying units with the required distribution of electromagnetic field energy along the irradiated material, small dimensions, high drying quality, and low price.","PeriodicalId":503132,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Agronomy","volume":"117 19","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-03-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140250714","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
A field study was conducted to evaluate faba bean varieties for yield and yield components and disease reactions in the Lay Gayint district during the 2020 and 2021 cropping seasons. Six faba bean varieties, including local, were arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The crop and disease data were collected, and the disease severity was assessed five times in 7 and 10 days intervals using the disease rating scale for chocolate spot and faba bean gall disease, respectively. The combined analysis variance showed significant P<0.01 differences among faba bean varieties in agronomic traits, disease severity, and area under the disease progress curve. The variety Numan had a higher chocolate spot (46.52%) and faba bean gall (40.46%) disease severity. The area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) of the chocolate spot was higher on local (1292.85%-days). For faba bean gall, a higher AUDPC value (994.08%-days) was calculated from the Numan variety. The lowest severity of chocolate spot (27.37%) and faba bean gall (21.02%) was assessed from the variety Gora, and this variety also had the lowest chocolate spot AUDPC. The variety Gora and Ashebeka provided the highest grain yield (21988 kg·ha−1) and (20624 kg·ha−1), respectively. The results of the correlation analysis also indicated that the highest yield was associated with lower disease occurrence. In conclusion, varieties Gora and Ashebeka are found to be moderately resistant varieties to chocolate spot and faba bean gall disease than other varieties with higher yields, and these varieties are recommended for production in the study area and other similar ecologies.
{"title":"Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) Variety Evaluation for Disease Resistance, Yield, and Agronomic Traits in South Gondar, Ethiopia","authors":"Tiringo Yilak Alemayehu, Kassahun Amare, Dereje Belay, Huluager Abebe","doi":"10.1155/2024/5490629","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/5490629","url":null,"abstract":"A field study was conducted to evaluate faba bean varieties for yield and yield components and disease reactions in the Lay Gayint district during the 2020 and 2021 cropping seasons. Six faba bean varieties, including local, were arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The crop and disease data were collected, and the disease severity was assessed five times in 7 and 10 days intervals using the disease rating scale for chocolate spot and faba bean gall disease, respectively. The combined analysis variance showed significant P<0.01 differences among faba bean varieties in agronomic traits, disease severity, and area under the disease progress curve. The variety Numan had a higher chocolate spot (46.52%) and faba bean gall (40.46%) disease severity. The area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) of the chocolate spot was higher on local (1292.85%-days). For faba bean gall, a higher AUDPC value (994.08%-days) was calculated from the Numan variety. The lowest severity of chocolate spot (27.37%) and faba bean gall (21.02%) was assessed from the variety Gora, and this variety also had the lowest chocolate spot AUDPC. The variety Gora and Ashebeka provided the highest grain yield (21988 kg·ha−1) and (20624 kg·ha−1), respectively. The results of the correlation analysis also indicated that the highest yield was associated with lower disease occurrence. In conclusion, varieties Gora and Ashebeka are found to be moderately resistant varieties to chocolate spot and faba bean gall disease than other varieties with higher yields, and these varieties are recommended for production in the study area and other similar ecologies.","PeriodicalId":503132,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Agronomy","volume":"14 8","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-03-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140254406","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Prince Baah, S. T. Nyaku, Benjamin Agamah, P. Tongoona
Root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) poses a significant threat to okra production, resulting in substantial yield losses. The objectives of this study were to assess the impact of biological seed protectants on the growth and establishment of okra plants and nematode population reduction in soil. Okra seeds were coated with 40% sesame oil, 50% neem oil, 100% citrus oil, velum at 3.8 ml/7l of water, and a control (sterilized distilled water) at different time intervals of 30 min, 60 min, 90 min, and 120 min to determine the germination percentages and vigor. The experimental setup was laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD), with three replications, utilizing a Jacobson table for the germination test. The laboratory results demonstrated significant differences (P<0.05) in germination percentage and vigor index across the different time intervals. Neem oil, citrus oil, and velum exhibited higher germination percentages and vigor indices at all time intervals. Notably, 30-minute time interval proved to be efficient with 100% citrus oil producing 80.33% germination and 965 vigor index and 50% neem oil producing 75% germination and 994 vigor index. Field evaluations revealed citrus at 100% concentrations as seed coating (T5) and neem at 50% concentrations as seed coating (T3), with the highest nematode reductions (90.1% and 90.4%) and least reproductive factors (RFs) of 0.05 and 0.04, respectively, at the Atomic farms. The study has revealed that treating okra seeds with 100% citrus oil and 50% neem oil has the efficacy of reducing nematode reproduction in soil, while enhancing germination and seedling vigor, together with an improvement in growth and yield. Sesame oil has a negative influence on seed germination and vigor and is therefore not recommended as a preplant protectant.
{"title":"Evaluation of Preplant Seed Protectants for the Management of Root-Knot Nematode of Okra in Ghana","authors":"Prince Baah, S. T. Nyaku, Benjamin Agamah, P. Tongoona","doi":"10.1155/2024/4025844","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/4025844","url":null,"abstract":"Root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) poses a significant threat to okra production, resulting in substantial yield losses. The objectives of this study were to assess the impact of biological seed protectants on the growth and establishment of okra plants and nematode population reduction in soil. Okra seeds were coated with 40% sesame oil, 50% neem oil, 100% citrus oil, velum at 3.8 ml/7l of water, and a control (sterilized distilled water) at different time intervals of 30 min, 60 min, 90 min, and 120 min to determine the germination percentages and vigor. The experimental setup was laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD), with three replications, utilizing a Jacobson table for the germination test. The laboratory results demonstrated significant differences (P<0.05) in germination percentage and vigor index across the different time intervals. Neem oil, citrus oil, and velum exhibited higher germination percentages and vigor indices at all time intervals. Notably, 30-minute time interval proved to be efficient with 100% citrus oil producing 80.33% germination and 965 vigor index and 50% neem oil producing 75% germination and 994 vigor index. Field evaluations revealed citrus at 100% concentrations as seed coating (T5) and neem at 50% concentrations as seed coating (T3), with the highest nematode reductions (90.1% and 90.4%) and least reproductive factors (RFs) of 0.05 and 0.04, respectively, at the Atomic farms. The study has revealed that treating okra seeds with 100% citrus oil and 50% neem oil has the efficacy of reducing nematode reproduction in soil, while enhancing germination and seedling vigor, together with an improvement in growth and yield. Sesame oil has a negative influence on seed germination and vigor and is therefore not recommended as a preplant protectant.","PeriodicalId":503132,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Agronomy","volume":"10 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-03-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140260299","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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