Evaluation of maize (Zea mays L.) varieties for agronomic and yield performance in two locations of Northern Guinea Savanna agro-ecology of Nigeria

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) is the third most important cereal in the world and the second in Nigeria after rice in terms of cultivation and utilization. Five varieties (TZESR-W, SUWAN-1-SR, DMR-ESR-W, Mega maize and Local cultivar) were evaluated during the 2018 cropping season with the aim of assessing the agronomic and yield potentials in two locations (Jalingo and Yola) of the northern guinea savanna agro-ecology of the country. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. Seeds were sown on a plot size of 5 m x 5 m at a spacing of 75 cm x25 cm. Data collected on vegetative and yield parameters were analyzed using GENSTAT software and means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test at a 5% level of probability. Results from the study showed high variability among the varieties across locations in most traits studied. However, SUWAN-1-SR and DMR-ESR-W performed better in both locations with an average number of grains per cob of 443 and 483 in Jalingo and Yola, respectively and are recommended for cultivation by farmers. Mega maize was the lowest in most traits suggesting that it is not suitable for Jalingo and Yola locations. The local variety, used as a check performed better than mega maize and TZESR-W, comparing well to SUWAN-1-SR and DMR-ESR-W, the leading varieties in most parameters. The significant differences among the varieties can be harnessed for selective breeding.