Pre-Extension Demonstration of Kik Type Field Pea (Pisum Sativum L.) Varieties in Selected Highland Districts of Guji Zone, Southern, Oromia, Ethiopia

Abstract

In Ethiopia, many varieties were released to improve field pea yield at different locations. However, field pea’s productivity is low because the released and improved varieties were not demonstrated at farms. Therefore, demonstrating improved field pea varieties is an entry point to large extension production. Hence, this study was conducted in three highland districts of the Guji zone to evaluate the yield and profitability of kik type field pea varieties on farmer’s land. An improved variety named Burkitu and local varieties were demonstrated on 12 experimental farmers in 2022. Yield data and production costs were collected and analyzed by descriptive statistics, and the profitability of varieties were estimated by cost benefit analysis. The results showed that kik type Burkitu variety generated a yield of 23.58 qt/ha compared to 18.33 qt/ha of local variety. The result of cost benefit analysis also indicated that Burkitu (97005 birr/ha) variety gave better returns than the local variety (54022 birr/ha). Based on higher yield, disease tolerant and market demand Burkitu variety was preferred by farmers. Using improved field pea varieties was important for higher yield and return. Hence, farmers should use Burkitu for kik type field pea production. Further research is needed to promote Burkitu as scaling up varieties in the highland areas of the Guji zone.