IJAER

International Journal of Agriculture and Environmental Research™

ISSN 2455-6939

Title:
INFLUENCE OF VARIETY AND SPACING ON THE GROWTH AND YIELD OF OKRA (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) IN MUBI, NORTHERN GUINEA SAVANNA ZONE OF NIGERIA

Authors:
Z. Yusuf and M. A. Muhamman

Abstract:
Yield of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench), one of the most important vegetables grown in Nigeria depends on variety and spacing among others. Farmers are yet to adopt new varieties that posses such characteristics. Thus, field experiments were conducted at the FAO/TCP farm, Faculty of Agriculture, Adamawa State University, Mubi (100 15' N, 130 16'E and 696 above sea level), to study the Influence of variety and spacing on the growth and yield of okra. Treatments consisted of three okra varieties (Long pod local, Yarkwadon and Clemson spineless,) with three inter and intra spacing (60 cm x 30 cm, 60 cm x 45 cm and 60 cm x 60 cm). The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with the varieties assigned to the main plots and spacing assigned to the subplots; these were then replicated three times. Data were collected on: Number of branches per plant, Days to 50% flowering, Number of fruits per plant, Fruit length, Fruit diameter and fresh fruit weight. Data generated were then subjected to analysis of variance. Means showing significant F- test were separated using DMRT. Result showed that Yarkwadon had the highest number of branches, highest number of fruits per plant and fresh fruit weight, likewise spacing at 60 cm x 60 cm. Based on the results, yarkawadon at a spacing of 60 cm x 60 cm should be adopted in Mubi and similar environment since it manifested the highest effect on the major parameters measured.

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