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. |