Highest Marginal Rate Of Return Research Articles

Effects of Mela Organics' New Liquid Fertilizer on Tomato Yield in Semi-Arid Areas of Ethiopia

Soil organic matter depletion is mainly caused by crop residue removal, and low or no application of organic fertilizers often results in nutrient exhaustion and low crop yields. This challenge requires the evaluation of different organic fertilizer resources to provide new alternative fertilizer products to an Ethiopian production system. Based on this fact, an experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of mela organic fertilizer as a supplementary fertilizer to improve the yield of tomatoes under irrigation in the Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia from 2020 to 2021. The experiment consisted of eight treatments (Control, 100% recommended fertilizer, 100% recommended fertilizer + 30 L/ha Mela, 100% recommended fertilizer + 45 L/ha Mela, 75% recommended fertilizer +30 L/ha Mela, 75% recommended fertilizer + 45 L/ha Mela, 50% recommended fertilizer +30 L/ha Mela and 50% recommended fertilizer + 45 L/ha Mela) laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. The results revealed that the highest agronomic yield was obtained by applying the 100% recommended fertilizer + 30 L/ha Mela. However, based on the partial budget analysis, the highest marginal rate of return was obtained from 50% recommended fertilizer + 45 L/ha Mela. Thus, it can be concluded that the application of Mela Organics up to 45 L/ha, integrated with chemical fertilizer applications, can increase tomatoes' economic yields and reduce fertilizer costs.

Effect of insecticides and intercropping systems on fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith)) infestations and damage in maize in northern Ghana

Field studies were conducted over two successive seasons to test the effects of maize-legume intercropping system on fall armyworm (FAW) (Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith)) and if insecticide use was necessary in intercropping systems. Three insecticide treatments [no spray, Emastar 112 EC (a.i. emamectin benzoate 48 g/L + acetamiprid 64 g/L), Neem seed oil (NSO) (a.i. 3% azadirachtin)] and three intercropping systems [sole maize (Zea mays L.), maize + soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) and maize + groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)] were arranged as a 3 × 3 factorial experiment in a randomized complete block design. Data were collected on FAW larval infestations, parasitism rates, damage, grain yield and gross financial returns. Results from combined-years analyses showed that larval infestation was significantly affected by intercropping (p = 0.034) only, with maize + soybean recording the lowest infestation while sole maize was highest. Damage to crop and cobs were significantly affected by years and insecticide treatments. Cob damage was also significantly affected by intercropping system with maize + soybean being lowest and sole maize recording the highest damage. Parasitoids recorded were Coccygidium luteum, Chelonus bifoveolatus, and Charops sp. Grain yield was significantly affected by the intercropping systems only (p = 0.004), with no significant year (p = 0.152), insecticide (p = 0.726) and insecticide × intercropping system (p = 0.660) effects. Sole maize (1.6 t/ha) had the lowest yield while maize + groundnut (2.2 t/ha) was highest. In terms of income, an economic analysis showed that spraying intercropped maize with NSO resulted in the highest marginal rate of return. Thus, the use of NSO and intercropping is an effective FAW management strategy.

Growth and Yield of Onion (<i>Allium cepa</i> L.) as Affected by Variable Rates of Poultry Manure and Mineral Nitrogen Fertilizer at Alage, Central Rift Valley Ethiopia

Onion is one of the important vegetable crops produced in many home gardens and in some extent commercially in different parts of Ethiopia. Therefore, this experiment was conducted at Alage Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia with the objectives of assessing the growth, yield, and quality response of onion to the variable rates of poultry manure and mineral nitrogen fertilizer. The experiment comprising of three nitrogen levels (0, 46, and 92 kg ha<sup>-1</sup>) and four levels of poultry manure (0, 5, 10, and 15 t ha<sup>-1</sup>) were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The result indicated that leaf length, leaf number, days to maturity, bulb length, and bulb dry matter content were significantly influenced by main factors. Application of poultry manure at the rate of 15 t ha<sup>-1</sup> recorded the highest total bulb yield (63.33 t ha<sup>-1</sup>) and marketable bulb yield (62.52 t ha<sup>-1</sup>), but statistically, there was no significant difference between 15t ha<sup>-1</sup> and 10t ha<sup>-1</sup> poultry manure application. The results of the partial budget analysis showed that 15 t ha<sup>-1</sup> poultry manure application gave the highest marginal rate of returns. Since the highest bulb yield and maximum marginal rate of returns are obtained at 15 t ha<sup>-1</sup> poultry manure application, this rate can be recommended for onion production in the researched area, and areas having similar agro-ecologies. However, as the research is conducted for a single season and location, repeating the experiment over location and year will be required to give a conclusive recommendation.

Response of Durum Wheat (Triticum durum L.) Genotypes to Blended NPSB Fertilizer Rates and Wheat Rust Diseases in Southern Ethiopia

Lack of improved varieties and soil fertility degradation are among the major factors that limit durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L.) production in Ethiopia. The objectives of this study were to determine the response of durum wheat cultivars (i) to nitrogen, phosphorus, sulphur, and boron (NPSB) fertilizer blend; (ii) rust infection; and (iii) partial budget analysis using NPSB fertilizer blend. A 2-location experiment was conducted in 2021 in South Ethiopia to evaluate the response of 4 durum wheat genotypes to blended NPSB fertilizer rates in a randomized complete block design in a 4 × 4 factorial arrangement. The results showed significant (P<0.05) differences due to genotypes (G), rate of NPSB fertilizer (F), and location (E) for all the parameters. The effects due to the G × F × E interaction were significant (P<0.05) for the number of total tillers, number of productive tillers, and grain yield (GY). A significant (P<0.05) G × E interaction was observed for the majority of parameters except days to 50% heading and plant height. Durum wheat genotype S3-213037 produced the highest grain yield of 3689.3 kg·ha−1 when NPSB fertilizer was applied at a rate of 225 kg·ha−1 at Adekoysha. Moreover, partial budget analysis indicated that genotype S3-213037 accrued a maximum benefit of 112,986.50 birr·ha−1 and the highest marginal rate of return of 1356.4% when NPSB fertilizer was applied at a rate of 225 kg·ha−1. Therefore, this study indicated that the application of an NPSB fertilizer rate of 225 kg·ha−1 could be used in the production of durum wheat in the East African region with similar agroecologies to the study area.

Determination of the Appropriate Blended Inorganic Fertilizer Rate Recommendation for the Optimal Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Grain Yield and Profitability in the Dawuro Zone, Ethiopia

Soil fertility decline is a significant factor affecting crop production. In a specific area, fertilizer application for a crop depends on soil type and profitability. Moreover, optimizing chemical fertilizer utilization in crop production is crucial from both environmental and economic perspectives. However, there is limited information available on the optimum NPSB fertilizer rate for common bean production in the study area. Thus, the study aimed to establish area-specific NPSB fertilizer rate recommendations for optimal grain yield and profitability of common bean. The field experiment was conducted in two locations in the 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons. The treatments included 0, 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150, 175, and 200 kg·ha−1 NPSB fertilizer rates, and they were planted using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The combined location analysis of variance indicated that the application of NPSB fertilizer significantly influenced plant height, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, hundred-seed weight, biomass yield, grain yield, and harvest index. The highest grain yields (2815 kg·ha−1 and 3433 kg·ha−1) were recorded with the application of a 125 kg·ha−1 NPSB blended fertilizer rate, while the lowest grain yields (1429 kg·ha−1 and 1500 kg·ha−1) were produced from the nonfertilizer applied plot in Deneba and Wara, respectively. The combined location mean showed that the maximum grain yield (3124 kg·ha−1), followed by 2710 kg·ha−1, was produced by the application of 125 and 100 kg·ha−1 NPSB fertilizer rates, respectively. The data indicate that raising the NPSB fertilizer rate from 0 to 125 kg·ha−1 would greatly boost grain yield in the common bean in both locations in a similar manner. The economic analysis revealed that applying 125 kg·ha−1 of NPSB fertilizer earned the highest net benefits (140453.2 ETB·ha−1) with the highest marginal rate of return (1745.26%). Therefore, for high yield and profitability of common bean, a rate of 125 kg·ha−1 NPSB fertilizer is suggested in the study area and similar agro-ecological zones.

Pre-extension Demonstration of Soil Test Based NPS Fertilizer Recommendation under Lime Application for Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum) in Horo Distric at Horo Guduru Wollega Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia

Wheat is a major crop produced in Ethiopian high lands and in particularly in study area, which is a staple food crop. Soil nutrient depletion restrains agricultural crop production and economic growth. A major challenge on recommendations on the amount and type of fertilizers to applied in the country level and in the study area. Soil test based phosphorous calibration study was conducted on bread wheat for three consecutive years for determination of the values of critical level phosphorus (10 ppm) and phosphorus requirement factor (11.03 kg/ha) in Horo District. This District was selected purposively based on potential Bread wheat production. Due to Ethiopia begun to use NPS fertilizer recently, Optimum NPS fertilizer rate for bread wheat production was determined in Horo District. In order to gain confidence in the diffusion of technology to end users, a pre-extension demonstration of the NPS fertilizer recommended rate for bread wheat based on soil tests was completed in the Horo district. The goal of this demonstration was to allow farmers to participate and test the technology during the 2020–21 cropping season. There were two treatments presented: a blanket recommendation and 100% phosphorous critical NPS at optimum nitrogen (46 kg/ha). The research findings were that the soil test crop-based NPS fertilizer rate application from 100% phosphorous critical NPS at optimum nitrogen (46 kg/ha) was recommended for the production of bread wheat in the Horo district. The analysis of variance indicated that, the highest grain yield (4110 kg/ha) was obtained from the application of Soil Test based NPS fertilizer recommendation (STBFR) whereas the lowest grain yield 3322.67 kg/ha from the blanket fertilizer recommendation. The economic analysis also revealed that the maximum net benefit 87089.40 Ethiopia Birr was obtained from STBFR. Soil test based NPS fertilizer recommendation was economically feasible and the highest Marginal rate of return and net income were obtained from soil test based fertilizer recommendation. Therefore, 100% Pc from NPS and Nitrogen 46 kg/ ha fertilizer rate recommended for bread wheat production and productive in the study area. Further scaling up/out the technology to reach more produced in the same soil type and agro ecology in particularly Eastern Wollega Zone and Horo district.

Effects of Blended NPSB Fertilizer Rates on Growth, Yield and Yield Components of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Varieties in Miserak Badawacho District, Hadiya Zone, Southern Ethiopia

Background: Macro and micronutrients are the most limiting factors in the production of potato in most part of the country. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the effect of blended NPSB fertilizer rates on yield and yield components of potato varieties in Hadiya zone, Southern Ethiopia in 2021-2022 cropping season. Methods: The experiment was conducted as a factorial combination of five levels of blended NPSB fertilizer rates (0, 100, 150, 200, 250 kg ha-1) and four potato varieties in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Data collected on growth, yield and yield-related traits were subjected to analysis of variance. Result: The results of the study revealed that variety and blended NPSB fertilizer showed a significant effect on crop phenology, growth, tuber yield and yield components. The interaction effect of variety and blended NPSB fertilizer also showed a significant effect on most of the traits measured except for days to 50% flowering and unmarketable tuber yield. The variety Belete showed the highest marketable tuber yield and total tuber yield with the application of 200 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer rate followed by variety Gudene). In terms of economic performance, 150 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer was found to show the marginal rate of return acceptable net benefit in variety Belete. Therefore, potato-growing farmers are advised to apply 150 kg ha-1 of NPSB fertilizer to grow Belete variety. In addition, Gudene variety at 250 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer application rate was found to show the highest marginal rate of return and net benefit can be considered as an alternative recommendation to increase the productivity of potato in the study area.

Soil Properties, Crop Yield, and Economic Return in Response to Lime Application on Acidic Nitisols of Southern Highlands of Ethiopia

Soil acidity is one of the major crop production constraints in the highlands of Ethiopia. Liming is becoming a common practice to amend soil acidity, but its effects on soil properties, crop yield, and farm income are not well studied. In this study, an on-farm liming experiment was conducted for two consecutive years (2020-2021) on acidic Nitisols (pH < 5.5) in Southern Ethiopia. The experiment consisted of six liming rates (control, 2.74, 4.11, 5.48, 6.85, and 8.22 t·ha−1) laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Soil, agronomic, and economic data were collected in 2020 and 2021 cropping seasons and analyzed. The application of lime in the ranges of 2.74–8.22 t·ha−1 increased soil pH by 0.46–1.25 units and reduced exchangeable acidity by 2.02–3.17 units. Higher lime rates of 6.85–8.22 t·ha−1 increased soil pH sharply from 5.22 to 5.99 and 6.46, respectively, but such a rise in soil pH was not proportionally reflected in the yield increment. Higher available phosphorus contents of 7.16 and 6.01 mg·kg−1 were measured at the liming rates of 4.11 and 5.48 t·ha−1, respectively. Combined over the two years, 5.45 t·ha−1 lime application yielded the highest barley total biomass of 19,199 kg·ha−1 and a grain yield of 4,328 kg·ha−1, which are 46% and 30% higher than those of the control, respectively. It also yielded the highest marginal rate of return of 477% and a gross margin of 192,857.3 ETB1·ha−1, which is 53% higher than the control. Based on our results, 5.45 t·ha−1 of lime appears to have the optimal rate for economically viable barley production in the study area or similar environments.

Response of Field pea (Pisum sativum L.) Varieties to Application of Blended NPS Fertilizer in Bore, Southern Ethiopia

Low soil fertility influences plant establishment, growth, seed yield and the profitability of a field pea production in the study area. A field experiment was conducted in Bore on station of Bore Agricultural Research Centre with five levels of NPS (0, 50, 100 and 150) with three varieties of field pea (Arjo-1 and Bilalo) in randomized complete block design with three replications. The aim of the study were to evaluate the effect of blended NPS rates on the yield and yield components of field pea varieties and to identify economically feasible rates of blended NPS that increase the productivity of the field pea. Growth, Yield and yield components of field pea were significantly influenced by different rates of blended fertilizer treatments. Results showed significant effect of various levels of blended fertilizer on all tested parameters except on days to flowering, days to maturity and number of seed per pod. Variety Arjo-1 showed the highest plant height (182.1 cm), highest grain yield (5023 kg ha-1) and highest net benefit (152299.5 Birr ha-1) with application of 150 kg NPS ha-1. Likewise, variety Bilalo with application of 150 kg blended NPS ha-1 fertilizer scored significantly the highest hundred seed weight (271.3 g). The highest number of total pods per plant (89.67) was recorded at application rate of 100 kg NPS ha-1 variety Arjo-1 and same application of fertilizer gave the highest agronomic efficiency (1282 %) for Bilalo variety. Although, minimum value of those traits were obtained with 0 kg ha-1. Similarly, application of 50 kg NPS gave net benefit (132111.0 Birr ha-1) with the highest marginal rate of return (129686 Birr ha-1) with Arjo-1 variety. Therefore, production of field pea with the application of 50 kg NPS ha-1 was most productive for economical production.

Epidemic development and management of common leaf rust (Puccinia sorghi Schwein) and turcicum leaf blight [Exserohilum turcicum (Pass.)] of maize (Zea mays L.) in eastern Ethiopia

AbstractMaize production and productivity are affected by biotic and abiotic factors. Among the biotic factors, fungal diseases incited by common leaf rust (CLR) and turciccum leaf blight (TLB) are the most important foliar diseases of the crop in Ethiopia. A field experiment was conducted at Haramaya University, research station “Raare,” during the 2019/2020 main cropping season. The objectives of the study were to investigate the effect of host resistance and fungicide application on the epidemic development of CLR and TLB, yield and yield components of maize, and the management of these foliar diseases. Four maize varieties (Afranqalloo, Bate, Gibee‐3, and Raare‐1) and Mancozeb at four different rates (0, 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 kg ha−1) were evaluated under field conditions against the diseases. The treatments were laid out in a factorial arrangement in a randomized complete block design with three replications. All disease and agronomic data were collected during the experimental season. The results from analysis of variance showed that the combination of the variety Bate with Mancozeb at a rate of 4.5 kg ha−1 proved to be the best treatment combination for managing both diseases. Similarly, Mancozeb at a rate of 4.5 kg ha−1 resulted in the lowest CLR and TLB disease incidence and severity (60.4% and 21.0%; 63.7% and 41.78%), respectively. Likewise, the highest grain yield (8392 kg ha−1) and thousand kernel weights of 529 g and the lowest epidemic development were recorded from the variety Bate treated with 4.5 kg ha−1 Mancozeb. The result also revealed that the integration of host resistance (the variety Bate) with 4.5 kg ha−1 Mancozeb was the most effective treatment in reducing CLR and TLB epidemic development and in increasing the grain yield of maize. The economic analysis also showed the presence of the highest marginal rate of return from the Bate variety treated with 4.5 kg ha−1 Mancozeb compared to other treatment combinations. Thus, it is concluded that the variety Bate treated with 4.5 kg ha−1 Mancozeb can be used to improve maize production and productivity in the study area and elsewhere with similar agroecologies.

Economic feasibility of carrot (Daucus carota L) production in response to different seed priming techniques under deficit irrigation

The production and productivity of carrots can be significantly influenced by factors such as poor quality seed quality, lack of pre-sowing seed treatments, and improper irrigation management. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effects of various seed priming techniques on the early establishment, growth, and yield of carrot (Daucus carota L., Nantes variety) under different irrigation intervals in Gerado, South Wollo, Ethiopia. Four seed priming treatments (no priming, hydro priming with distilled water, halo priming with potassium nitrate, and hormonal priming with gibberellic acid) were combined with three irrigation intervals (4, 7, and 10 days). The experiment followed a factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) with split plot arrangement, consisting of three replications. The main plots were assigned to the irrigation intervals, while the subplots were assigned to the seed priming techniques. The results showed that the interaction between priming techniques and irrigation intervals had a significant impact on yield parameters. Distilled water treatment under both the 7-day and 10-day irrigation intervals resulted in the highest marketable carrot root yields, reaching 33.73 tons per hectare and 30.63 tons per hectare, respectively. Furthermore, the combination of distilled water treatment and a 7-day irrigation interval showed the highest net benefit for carrot production (858,476.21 birr/15,579.42 USD). This treatment combination also demonstrated the highest marginal rate of return (4255.80 %), making it a recommended approach for economically viable carrot production in the study area and similar agro-ecological contexts.

Removal of Old Leaves and Soil Touching Unproductive Branches of Tea Bushes for Controlling Red Rust Disease in Bangladesh.

Only leaf reduction (Cultural measure), in treatment T4 [treated with leaf removal above 15 inches (38.10 cm) from ground level], maximum yield (2185.00 kgha-1) was found resulted 21.64% more over the control. T3 [10 inches (25.40 cm)] and T5 [20 inches (50.80 cm)] gave similar response having 20 and 20.68% increased yield over the control. The lowest severity (21.38 PDI) was found in T5 [20 inches (50.80 cm)] that was statistically identical to T4 [15 inches (38.10 cm)] and T3 [10 inches (25.40 cm)] having a decrease trend of 58.28%, 50.26% and 42.59% respectively. There is 92.99% impact of leaf reduction in reducing disease severity of red rust having a decrease trend of 7.2 PDI for removal of leaf by 5 inches (12.70 cm) from the soil level. Similarly there is 81.44% impact of leaf reduction in increasing yield of made tea (kg ha-1) having an increase trend of 103.01 unit for removal of leaf by 5 inches (12.70 cm) from the soil level. In leaf reduction (Cultural measure) with one round chemical application, treatment T13 [treated with leaf removal above 15 inches (38.10 cm) from ground level with one round of Carbendazim 50 WP] gave maximum yield (2,310.00 kgha-1) resulted 28.61% more over the control followed by T15 [20 inches (50.80 cm) with one round of Carbendazim 50 WP] and T14 [20 inches (50.80 cm) with one round of Copper-oxichloride 50 WP] having 28.18 and 27.69% increased yield of made tea. Lowest severity (9.63 PDI) was found in T15 [20 inches (50.80 cm) with one round of Carbendazim 50 WP] having 41.21% reduction over control followed by identical PDI in T12 [15 inches (38.10 cm) with one round of Copper-oxichloride 50 WP], T13 [15 inches (38.10 cm) with one round of Carbendazim 50 WP] and T14 [20 inches (50.80 cm) with one round of Copper-oxichloride 50 WP] having 77.40, 77.31 and 77.79% reduction respectively. There is 78.24% impact in reducing disease severity of red rust having a decrease trend of 2.23 PDI for removal of leaf by 5 inches (12.70 cm) from the soil level with one round chemical fungicide application. Similarly there is 51.76% impact in increasing yield of made tea (kg ha-1) having an increase trend of 30.21 unit for removal of leaf by 5 inches (12.70 cm) from the soil level with one round chemical fungicide. From the benefit cost analysis it is projected that the treatment T3 [10 inches (25.40 cm)] received the highest marginal rate of return (1202.17%) followed by 1152.17% in treatment T4 [treated with leaf removal above 15 inches (38.10 cm). One round of systemic fungicides like Carbendazim 50 WP with this cultural practice gave 1034.21% and 1091.42% marginal rate of return respectively. Considering yield of made tea, disease severity and benefit cost analysis viewpoint, it can be concluded that, the cost effective treatment is removal of soil touching old leaves attached with tea bushes of MSK and LSK pruned sections within 10 inches (25.40 cm) to 15 inches (38.10 cm) from the soil level.

Growth and tuber yield responses of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) varieties to seed tuber size in northwest highlands of Ethiopia

Field experiment was conducted during the 2019 irrigation season to evaluate the growth and tuber yield responses of potato varieties in the highlands of Ethiopia. The treatments consisted of four potato varieties (Belete, Shonkolla, Gudanie and Local) and three seed tuber sizes (small (31.5 ± 2.5 g), medium (57 ± 2.5 g) and large (77.5 ± 2.5 g). The experiment was laid out in factorial arrangement using randomized complete block design with three replications in factorial arrangement. The results showed that, variety and seed tuber size in their main effects significantly influenced almost all the tested parameters of potato. Tuber size and variety also interact to influence days to 90% maturity, plant height, large-sized tuber yield, marketable and total tuber yields. Large-sized seed tubers of Belete and Gudanie varieties recorded the highest marketable tuber yields of 39.13 t ha−1 and 38.63 t ha−1, respectively while the lowest (12.12 t h−1) was recorded from local variety planted using small-sized seed tubers. Large-sized seed tubers of Gudanie variety gave the highest net benefit (131,376.50 ETB ha−1) with unacceptable marginal rate of return (<100%) while Belete variety with small-sized seed tubers recorded the highest marginal rate of return (1657.14%) with relatively lower net benefit. Optimizing the seed tuber size is therefore necessary to increase productivity and profitability of potato production. In this regard, Gudanie variety combined with medium-sized seed tuber recorded relatively higher net benefit (123,410.80 ETB ha−1) with acceptable marginal rate of return (100.9%). Accordingly, production of Gudanie variety using medium-sized seed tubers (57 ± 2.5 g) could be recommended for the economical production of potato and improvement of the income and food security of the smallholder farmers in the study area and areas with similar agro-ecologies.

Evaluation of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Responses on Yield, Quality and Economic Advantage of Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum, L.) under Four Different Agro-Climatic Zones in Afghanistan

The response of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to the application of different rates of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) on different agro-climatic zones (ACZs) has not been well studied in Afghanistan. The objectives of this study were to (1) determine the impact of soil and climate on the responses of wheat to N and P fertilization, (2) quantify the specific N and P response of winter wheat for different ACZs, and (3) determine the economical application rates of N and P for farmers for each considered ACZs. This paper evaluates the effects of nitrogen levels (NL) at 35.28, 65, 95, and 120 kg N ha−1 and phosphorus levels (PL) at 0, 50, 70, and 90 kg P2O5 ha−1, respectively, in four locations (L) for two growing seasons (GS), on both yield and quality characteristics of winter wheat. Soil pH was the main environmental parameter affecting straw yield (SY), grain yield (GY), protein content (PC), and protein yield (PY). Winter wheat SY, GY, PC, and PY increased significantly (p &lt; 0.05) with PL rates up to 50 kg P2O5 ha−1 and with NL rates up to 120 kg N ha−1. NL was the most important parameter in determining PC, thus showing potential for further improvement in N management. The highest marginal rate of return was used as an index for the farmers to accept site-specific N and P fertilizer recommendations.

Short-Term Integrated Application of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Sulfur, and Boron Fertilizer and the Farmyard Manure Effect on the Yield and Yield Components of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) at Alle Special Woreda, Southern Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is an important grain legume with a high food and commercial value. Yet, its productivity is very low, which could be attributed to low levels of soil organic matter, nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), sulfur (S), and boron (B), and insufficient fertilizer application. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted during the 2019 cropping season in Alle, Southern Ethiopia, to evaluate the agronomic and economic responses of blended NPSB (18.7N-37.4P2O5-6.9S-0.25B) and farmyard manure (FYM) for common bean production. Four NPSB-blended fertilizer rates (0, 50, 100, and 150 kg·ha−1) and three FYM rates (0, 2.5, and 5 tons·ha−1) were used in the experiment. The experiment was laid out using a randomized complete block design in a factorial arrangement with four replications. The result showed that NPSB and FYM significantly affected crop phenology, growth, yield, and yield components. Application of 100 kg·ha−1 NPSB along with 5 t·ha−1 FYM significantly increased the number of nodules, hundred seed weight, and grain production. The results also showed that using 100 kg·ha−1 NPSB fertilizer in combination with 5 t·ha−1 FYM produced the highest grain, which is about 173% higher grain yield than the control. Partial budget analysis indicated that application of 100 kg·ha−1 NPSB fertilizer with 5 t·ha−1 FYM resulted in the highest marginal rate of return (1308%) and the best net profit. Therefore, an integrated application of 100 kg·ha−1 NPSB fertilizer and 5 t·ha−1 FYM is suggested.

Determination of the Application Rate of Conventional Compost Integrated with Chemical Fertilizer on Maize (Zia Maize) Yield in Dugda District of East Shoa Zone, Oromia

Integrated soil fertility management is the application of inorganic in combination with organic fertilizer to maintain soil fertility and improve crop yield. A study was conducted in East Shoa Zone, Dugda District on farmers' fields to determine the combined effects of conventional compost as organic fertilizer and NPS as inorganic fertilizer on soil chemical properties and maize production. There were five treatments: Recommended rate of inorganic fertilizer, 100, 75, 50 and 25% equivalent level of compost for nitrogen fertilizer. Recommended level of 69 P2O5/ha were equally applied at all treatments. The experiment was laid out in RCBD design with three replications. The analysis of variance showed no significant differences (P &gt; 0.05) in maize grain yield response. However, the highest maize grain yield (8728.20 kg ha-1) was obtained from treatment two that received 100% equivalent compost for nitrogen fertilizer and the lowest (8325 kg ha-1) was obtained from treatment one where recommended chemical fertilizer alone was applied. Composite Soil samples were also collected before compost application and after harvesting to evaluate the residual effect of compost on soil physiochemical properties. Accordingly, laboratory analysis showed no significance differences (P &gt; 0.05) in total N, available P, soil organic carbon and CEC. However, analysis of variance of post-harvest composite soil samples indicated significant differences on soil available P, OC, TN and CEC as compared to initial soil sample. On the other hand, partial budget analysis was done to determine economically optimum rate of compost integrated with chemical fertilizer. Accordingly, the highest net benefit (126527 Eth. Birr ha-1) was recorded for treatment two where 100% compost (4.6t/ha) plus 150kg/ha NPS fertilizers were applied. The highest marginal rate of return (146) was also obtained from the same treatment. Therefore, the present study showed that combined application of organic and NPS fertilizer enhanced maize productivity and soil fertility status in the study area. Hence combined fertilizer application of 4.6 t ha1 conventional compost integrated with 150 kg ha-1 NPS improved maize productivity and soil chemical properties, and recommended for the study area and similar agro-ecology.

Effect of Blended Fertilizer Types and Rates on Growth, Yield and Yield Components of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in Wondo District, Southern Ethiopia

Soil fertility decline is one of the principal factors contributing to low productivity of crops and food insecurity in Ethiopia. The information available with regards to effect of blended fertilizer type and rates on growth and yield performance of bread wheat ( Triticum aestivum L. ) for optimum production on loam soils of Wondo district is very limited. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted on loam soils of Wondo district Bachel Gigissa Peasant Association Farmers training center during 2018 cropping season to assess the effect of different blended fertilizer types and rates on growth, yield and yield components of bread wheat. The treatments studied consist of: control and three blended fertilizer formula NPS, NPSB, and NPSBZn each with four different rates (50, 100, 150 and 200 kg ha -1 ). Recommended rate of Urea (100 kg ha -1 ) was used equally for all treatments in spilt application and Danda’a variety was used as a test crop. The treatments were laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Soil and crop data were collected and analyzed using the SAS statistical package program version 9.4 and LSD at 5% probability level was used to establish the difference among the means. The soil result revealed that the experimental soil site texture was classified as loam. The highest (30.06 kg kg -1 ) agronomic efficiency obtained from150 kg ha -1 NPSB. The results revealed that application of blended fertilizers (NPS, NPSB and NPSBZn) delayed days to flowering, and physiological maturity by (13, 9, 10) and (15, 14 and 11) days, respectively as compared to control plot. Leaf Area Index and Straw yield were significantly (p ≤0.01 ) affected by the application of different blended fertilizer rates and significantly (p ≤0.05) by the main effect of blended fertilizer types and interaction effect. Grains per spike and grain yield were significantly (p ≤0.01 ) affected due to the main effects of blended fertilizer types and rates, they were also significantly (p ≤0.05) affected due to the interaction effect. Above ground biomass was significantly (p ≤0.01 ) affected due to main effect of blended fertilizer rates and the interaction effect however, non-significant (p &gt;0.05 ) due to blended fertilizer types. This study also revealed that, blended fertilizer types and rates significantly (p ≤0.05 ) affected DH, NFTm -2 , DPM, PH, SL and HI while TSW was significantly (p ≤0.05 ) affected only by the main effect of blended fertilizer rates. Blended fertilizers had improved Agronomic nutrient use efficiency of wheat as compared to the control treatment. The highest (6.17t ha -1 ) grain yield was obtained from 200 kg ha -1 NPSB +100 kg ha -1 urea application followed by (6.11 t ha -1 ) from150 kg ha -1 NPSB + 100 kg ha -1 urea, while minimum (1.95t ha -1 )grain yield was attained from the control treatment. However, the application of 150 kg ha -1 NPSB + 100 kg ha -1 urea had highest marginal rate of return (MRR %) and Net benefit. Therefore, it would be advisable to use blended fertilizer 150 kg ha -1 NPSB + 100 kg ha -1 , for wheat production in Wondo area. Furthermore, based on yield, net benefit and relatively low total cost of production the farmers of Wondo area also can use 100 kg ha -1 NPSB+ 100 kg ha -1 urea. However, since the experiment was conducted only for one season and one site, repeating the trial at different site as well as in the same experimental site would be important in order to draw sound recommendation. Keywords: Blended fertilizer, Grain yield, Net benefit, Nutrient use efficiency DOI: 10.7176/JNSR/13-13-03 Publication date: July 31 st 2022

Evaluation of Elites Isolates of Bradyrhizobia Nodulating on Groundnut Varieties (Arachis hypogaea L.) at Assosa District of Western Ethiopia

A field experiment was conducted on Nitisols of Asossa Agricultural Research Centre during 2017/18 2018/19 cropping season to investigate the response of yield, partial budget analysis of ground nut varieties to bio-fertilizer and inorganic nitrogen. Two locally suitable varieties 4 groundnut rhizobial strains with control and 18 kg N ha-1, totally 12 treatments had combined in factorial RCBD. TSP fertilizer was applied uniformly to all plots at 46 kg P2O5 ha-1. The treatments consists of: two Varieties of groundnut (V1= Muniputer V2= Babile 2) and 4-strains with 18 kg N ha-1 and uninoculated (control) factorial treatment combination were tested. Analysis of variance for two factors randomized complete block design (Table 1) revealed highly significant difference (P &lt; 0.001) due to the main effects of rhizobia and verities for the means of seed yield. On the other hand the interaction effects of rhizobia and varieties had non-significant (p&gt;0.05) for the means of seed yield, nodule dry weight and straw dry weight. The highest (186.5) nodules per plants were recorded from the interaction effect of Dibate moderate and Maniputer variety, while less nodules per plant (76.25) were produced by Dibate moderate with Babile variety. The Dibate 2 rhizobia had the highest net-benefit of 67,655 Ethiopian birr. The lowest net benefit was obtained by the application of the Dibate moderate and none inoculant. The profitability of the study showed that application of Moderate 2 rhizobia which provided the relatively high net benefit (67,655 ETB), was recommended to apply bio fertilizers. The % MRR between any pair of undominated treatments denotes the return per unit of investment in fertilizer expressed as a percentage. Economic analysis revealed that maximum marginal rate of return was recorded with application of Dibate 2 (9257.2%). So we could be recommended Dibate 2 strain for ground nut production in Asossa district. The best recommendation for treatments is not necessarily based on the highest marginal rate of return, rather based on the minimum acceptable marginal rate of return and the treatment with the high net benefit, relatively low variable cost together with an acceptable MRR becomes the tentative recommendation.

Response of Soybean (Glycine max L.) Varieties to Different Rates of Phosphorus Fertilizer on Yield and Yield Components at Omo Kuraz, Southern Ethiopia

Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) is the most important source of protein, oil and also cash for poor farmers. Lack of improved variety and optimum phosphorus fertilizer rate are the most important limiting factor for the productivity of soybean. Therefore, an experiment was carried out at Omo Kuraz-1 Sugar Development Project during 2018 cropping season to determine the effect of phosphorus (P) fertilizer levels on yield and yield related traits of soybean varieties. Factorial combination of three soybean varieties (Nova, Awassa-04 and Gazolia) and four rates of P fertilizer (0, 23, 46 and 69 kg P205/ha were laid out in a RCBD with three replications. Data were collected for yield and yield components and analyzed using Statistical analysis software (SAS and Genstat). The analyses of variance showed that there was significant difference (p≤ 0.001) among the varieties for the entire tested parameters, indicating the presence of ample genotypic variation among then Awassa-04 Variety produced significantly high grain yield (1183 Kg ha-1 as compared to Gazolia (950 Kg ha-1) and Nova (566 Kg ha-1). Interaction of variety Awassa-04 with 69 Kg P205 ha -1 showed maximum grain yield (1352 Kg ha-1) while the minimum value (403 Kg ha-1) was recorded for interaction of Nova variety with 0 kg P205 ha-1. Based on the economic analysis phosphorus fertilizer application at rate of 69 Kg P205 ha –1 resulted in highest marginal rate of return (350.9%). Therefore, it was conclude that phosphorus fertilizer application at rate of 69 Kg P205 ha-1 can be recommended for the study area. However, further study should be done on different rate of phosphorous to come up with a more comprehensive recommendation.

Soil type and fertilizer rate affect wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yield, quality and nutrient use efficiency in Ayiba, northern Ethiopia.

The blanket NP fertilizer recommendation over the past five decades in Ethiopia did not result in a significant increment of crop productivity. The main lack of success was highly linked to the extrapolating approach of one site success to others without considering the climate, soil, and ecological setting and variations. As a result, a new fertilization approach was desperately needed, and with this premise, new blended fertilizers are now being introduced to replace the conventional approach. Thus, the objective of this study was to examine the effect of NPSZnB blended fertilizer on bread wheat yield attributes, quality traits and use efficiency in two different soil types under rain-fed conditions in Ayiba, northern Ethiopia. Relevant agronomic data were evaluated and recorded from plots of each soil types for analysis. The analysis of variance revealed a significant (p < 0.001) variation on all the agronomic and grain quality traits due to the main and interaction effects of soil type and fertilizer treatment factors. Most agronomic and quality characteristics recorded the highest result in the highest treatment applications (175 and 150 kg NPSZnB ha−1) in both soils. Yield and grain quality traits of bread wheat was also found better under fertilized plots than unfertilized plots. In both soil types increasing application of the new blended fertilizer rate from 50–175 kg NPSZnB ha−1 showed an increasing trend in grain yield from 1.6 to 4.3 and 2.5 to 5.4 t ha−1 in Vertisol and Cambisol soils, respectively. The varied yield as a response of fertilizer treatments across soils signifies soil-specific fertilization approach is critically important for production increment. On the other hand, based on the partial budget analysis the highest net benefit with the highest marginal rate of return in both Vertisol and Cambisol soils were obtained when treated with 100 and 125 kg NPSZnB ha−1, respectively. Therefore, to produce optimum bread wheat yield under rainfed conditions in Ayiba (northern Ethiopia) fertilizing Vertisols with 100 kg NPSZnB ha−1 and fertilizing Cambisols with 125 kg NPSZnB ha−1 is recommended.