Effect of Different Tillage Practices on the Growth and Yield of Sweet Potatoes (Ipomoeo Batata L) in Asaba, Delta State Nigeria.

Abstract

The research was carried out to determine the effect of different tillage practices on the growth and yield of sweet potatoes (Ipomoeo batata L) in Asaba, Delta State Nigeria. Field experiment was carried out at the teaching and research farm of Federal College of Education (Technical),Asaba, Delta State Nigeria. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) made up of four treatments: To – control (ridge tillage), T1 – Zero tillage, T2 – Mound tillage, T3 – Flat tillage and was replicated three times (4 x 3). Land area of 100m x 100m was cleared and divided into three to represent, replicates 1, 2 and 3. Random samples of five plants were tagged for data collection at four, six and eight weeks’ intervals after germination of plants to measure the growth parameters, while yield was measured in kg using weighing scale. Data analysis was carried out using the statistical package of social science (SPSS) with general linear model procedure analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine the treatment effect and Duncan Multiple Range Test was used for mean separation difference in mean were considered significant at an alpha level of 95% or higher (p ≤ 0.05). Findings from the study revealed that tillage practices had significant effect (p<0.05) on the growth and yield of sweet potatoes. The study recommended the adoption of ridge tillage practices for increased growth and yield of sweet potatoes.