NPS Fertilizer Research Articles

Effects of Integrated Use of Lime and Nitrogen Fertilizer Rate on Maize (<i>Zea mays</i> l.) Crop and Its Profitability on Nitisols, Ethiopia

In the highlands of Ethiopia soil acidity is the limiting factor for crop production due to leaching effects of basic cations, nutrient loss by erosion, crop residue removal from farmland and other human induced factors. This study was carried out at Burie <i>district </i>to determine the effect of integrated use of lime and nitrogen fertilizer rate on yield and yield components of Maize in acidic nitisols. The treatments include lime (0 and 0.5 t ha^-1) and nitrogen fertilizer (0, 100, 200, 300, and 400 kg ha^-1). To fulfill the law of minimum, 200 kg ha^-1 die ammonium phosphate (DAP) which is recommended rate of NPS (19% N, 38% P₂O₅ and 7% S) fertilizer was used uniformly to all plots at the time of planting. The maize variety BH-661 was used as a test crop. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with ten treatments replicated three times. Yield and yield components of maize were collected and analyzed. The analysis of variance result revealed that, interaction effect of lime and N fertilizer reduced the tasseling period (88 days in the application of 0.5 t ha^-1 lime with 100 kg ha^-1 N to 85 days in combined use of 0.5 t ha^-1 lime with 400 kg ha^-1 N) and silking period from 91 days to 88 days. Grain yield was highly and positively correlated with AGDB (r=0.996) and HI (r=0.987). Grain yield of maize in the study area was increased from 5,550 kg ha^-1 to 6,410.20 kg ha ^-1 (adjusted yield). Yield increment was 13.42%. The average maize yield in the region was 3,780 kg ha^-1 but in the study area the adjusted yield was 6,410.20 kg ha^-1. As compared with regional maize yield it was increased by 40.3%. However, yield was highly and negatively correlated with DT (r=-0.957) and DS (r=-0.925). The maximum agronomic use efficiency of (3.76%) was from Treatment 10 (0.5 t ha^-1 lime with 400 kg ha^-1 N) than Treatment 7 (0.5 t ha^-1 lime with 100 kg ha^-1 N) of (3.16%). Based on the economic analysis, the net benefit value 47,701.04 Ethiopian Birr. Therefore, integrated application of 0.5 t ha^-1 lime and 300 kg ha^-1 Nitrogen fertilizer is economically reasonable and recommended to the farmers.

Response of Hybrid Maize &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;(Zea mays L.)&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; to NPS and Urea Fertilizer Rate on Nitisols of Yeki District, Sheka Zone, Ethiopia

Ethiopian soils deficiency in Sulfur, boron, zinc, potassium, copper, manganese and iron potentially hold back crop productivity despite continued use of N and P fertilizers as per the blanket recommendation. Hence a field experiment was initiated to investigate the response of Maize (Zea mays L.) to NPS and urea fertilizers based on soil test under balanced condition. The study contained 14 treatments: Control, Recommended NP, 3 levels of NPS kgha^-1 (150, 200, 300) and 3 levels of urea kgha^-1 (150, 250, 350). The treatments were laid out in a randomized complete block design with 3 replications. The results showed that NPS and urea rates of application significantly influenced yield and yield component of maize as compared to the control but non-significant difference as compared to the recommended NP rate. But the economics of fertilizer rates revealed that the maximum net benefit (37975.8 EB) was attained from the application of (150 NPS + 150 urea) kgha^-1. From this study, it has been clearly understood that NPS and urea application to maize in this site beyond these rates or using recommended NP rate may not be economical and desirable. Therefore, this application rate may save farmers from incurring extra costs for recommended NP fertilizer, which is in excess for the study area.

Effect of Rhizobium Inoculation, NPS Fertilizer and Vermicompost on Nodulation and Yield of Soybean (&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Glycine max&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; (l). Merrill) at Bako, Western Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, acidity-related soil fertility problems are the main production constraints, reducing productivity of major crops grown in the country. The experiment was carried out to determine influence of Blended NPS fertilizer, Seed Inoculation with Rhizobium Bacteria and Vermicompost (VC) application on soybean nodulation and yield of soybean. Factorial combinations of Rhizobium (uninoculated, inoculated), three VC levels (0, 1 and 2 t ha^-1) and three NPS levels (50%, 75% and 100% of 100 kg NPS ha^-1) were laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The results showed that the highest number of nodule per plant (32.0) and number of effective nodule per plant (31.4) were recorded at the combination of 2 tons VC ha^-1 and 75 kg NPS ha^-1 while the highest aboveground biomass (8953 kg ha^-1) was recorded at the combination of 2 tons VC ha^-1 with 100 kg NPS ha^-1. Likewise, the combination VC 2 tons ha^-1 with Rhizobium inoculation (TAL-379) gave the highest number of effective nodules per plant (26.3). On the other hand, three factors interaction of Rhizobium inoculation, VC and NPS rates significantly influenced the number of primary branches (NPB), number of pod per plant, seed yield and harvest index where the highest number of pods per plant (87.6), maximum seed yield (4180 kg ha^-1) and maximum harvest index (47%) were recorded from the plots treated with 100 kg NPS ha^-1 + 2 t VC ha^-1 inoculated with Rhizobium TAL-379 strain. Thus, considering the importance of integrated nutrient management in climate mitigation and adaptation; combined application of 2 t VC ha^-1 and 75 kg NPS ha^-1 inoculated with Rhizobium strain TAL-379 had resulted in better and optimum yield of 3870 kg ha^-1 and is tentatively recommended for use.

Pre Extension Demonstration of Tef Technologies at Midlands of Guji Zone, Southern Oromia, Ethiopia

Midland area of Guji zone was potential for tef production. However, the productivity of the crop is below its potential at farm level due to lack of improved varieties. To solve this problem demonstration of improved tef varieties were initiated to evaluate yield performance, evaluate profitability of the improved tef technologies and assess farmers’ feedbacks for further development of tef production during 2018/19 and 2019/20 years. Three potential districts were selected based on their tef potential production. From each district two kebeles were selected. 32 experimental farmers were used for this demonstration. Dagim and Tesfa improved varieties were demonstrated with standard check on 10mx10m area. A seed rate of 10kg/ha by a spacing of 20cm between rows, drilling of tef in the line of rows and 121kg/ha of NPS fertilizer was used. Descriptive statistics, one way ANOVA, General Linear Model, qualitative and cost benefit analysis were used to analyze the data. Higher yield (19.06 qt/ha) was obtained from Dagim variety while Tesfa generated 14.09 qt/ha. Lower yield (8.9 qt/ha) was harvested from the standard check. The result of one way ANOVA showed that there was a significance difference in Tesfa variety production at the three districts. The result of the Tukey test indicated that there was a significant difference between Shakiso and Adola district (p=0.012) with Shakiso experimental farmers harvested on average 2.77 quintals of Tesfa more than Adola experimental farmers. The cost benefit analysis result showed that 38,042, 24,464 and 8,058 ETB/ha was obtained from Dagim, Tesfa and Tseday varieties respectively. Early mature, market demand and high yield of tef variety was preferred by farmers in the study area. Farmers selected Tesfa and Tseday as they were slightly early mature variety than Dagim. Tesfa and Tseday varieties were lower yield than Dagim variety. Based on the preference of the farmers, grain yield obtained and returns Dagim and Tesfa varieties were recommended for scaling up in the study area and similar agro-ecologies.

Effect of Blended NPS Fertilizer Rates on Dry Fruit Yield and Yield Components of Hot Pepper (&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Capsicum annuum &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;L.) Varieties at Arba Minch, Southern Ethiopia

Hot pepper is one of the most important crops grown by smallholder farmers of Arba Minch Zuria district mainly for income generation. The dry fruit yield of the crop is very low in the district due to several production constraints of which the low accessibility of improved varieties and soil nutrient deficiency are among the major ones. Therefore, this experiment was conducted at Chano Mille Kebele, Arba Minch Zuria district of Southern Ethiopia during 2018/2019 cropping season to assess the effect of blended NPS fertilizer rates on growth, yield and yield components of hot pepper varieties and to determine optimum rate(s) of blended NPS fertilizer for hot pepper production for the study area. Six rates of blended NPS fertilizer (0, 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 kg ha-1) and three hot pepper varieties (Bako Local, Mareko Fana and Melka Shote) were used as experimental treatments and laid-out in 3x6 factorial arrangement in Randomized Complete Block Design in three replications. The results revealed that the main effect of variety and rates of blended NPS fertilizer had a significant effect (P<0.05) on growth, yield and yield components of hot pepper. The interaction effect of variety and rates of blended NPS fertilizer significantly affected the yield and yield components of hot pepper but not growth parameters. Melka Shote variety showed better vegetative growth. Melka Shote and Bako Local at the application of 200 kg ha-1 blended NPS fertilizer produced large number of fruits plant-1 and seeds fruit-1, maximum fruit weight plant-1 and dry fruit yield without significant variation among the two treatment combinations. Regression analysis revealed that as application of blended NPS fertilizer increased by one kg, the total dry fruit yield of Bako Local, Mareko Fana and Melka Shote increased by 7.3, 6.2 and 8.6 kg, respectively. Melka Shote variety had dry fruit yield advantage of 1.3 and 2.4 kg over Bako Local and Mareko Fana, respectively, as the rates of blended NPS fertilizer increased by one kg. Thus, application of 200 kg ha-1 blended NPS fertilizer for Melka Shote and Bako Local varieties could be optimum and recommended to improve hot pepper productivity for the current soil fertility status of the study area and vicinity with similar soil fertility status and agro-ecology.

Review on: The Effect NPS Fertilizer Rate on Phenology, Growth and Yield Parameters of Food Barley (&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Hordeum vulgare&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; L.)

Barley is one of the popular crops cultivated since ancient time in the world. Barley is one of the main cereal crops produced in the World and it is one of the most ancient crops among cereals and has played a significant role in the development of agriculture in the world. It is commonly used for food, animal feed and beverage value. The most important factors that reduce yield of barley is poor soil fertility, blanket recommendation of fertilizers, soil acidity (low soil pH), diseases and insects, poor crop management practices. The main objective of this paper is to review the effect of NPS fertilizer rates on food barley yield and yield components. Balanced fertilization is the key to sustainable crop production and maintenance of soil health. The yield of crop is depending upon the combined effect of many factors. Among these factors, the production and productivity is declining from time to time because of lack of combined application of input like recommended amount of fertilizers and management practices. Based on the review on the effect NPS fertilizer rate on phenology, growth and yield parameters of food barley. It has both economic and environmental consideration. The application of NPS fertilizer rates shows significant effect on growth, yield and yield components of food barley. It influence on the phonological, vegetative growth, yield and yield related parameters. Days to 50%heading, days to 90% maturity, spike length and number of tiller per plant were significantly affected by the NPS fertilizer rate. Then we should or need to focus on micro nutrients that are considered useless by farmers as well as researchers because those micro nutrients deficiency today shows clinical symptoms at human beings especially on children and infant women. Fertilizer suppliers or cooperative unions should pay attention to supply or blended type of the fertilizer instead of supplying single elements, the fact that the government and recognized researchers should give due attention to blended fertilizer to increase production of food Barley.

English

Recently Green bean production and demand is increasing in Ethiopia due to its fast maturity and nutritional value. However, various constraints are reported for its low productivity, including inappropriate uses of plant population and fertilizer rates. The objective of this study was to determine the optimum plant population and NPS rate for quality and economically feasible yield of Green bean. The experiment was conducted in field conditions at Alage, Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia, under supplemental irrigation in 2019. A factorial combinations of three plant populations (222222, 250000 and 333333 plants ha-1) and five levels of blended NPS (0, 132, 142, 152 and 162 kg NPS ha-1) were used in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Number of nodules per plant, number of effective nodule per plant, number of leaf per plant, plant height, and number of branches per plant, number of pod per plant, total above ground fresh biomass, pod diameter, pod length, harvest index and yield per plant and per hectare were recorded. All parameters were subjected to analysis of variance. The least significant differences (LSD) at the level of 5% significance were used to compare the treatments mean. The results showed that plant population and NPS rates had significant effects on number of nodules, number of leaf, number of branch, plant height, number of pod, pod length, harvest index, yield per plant and per hectare. The highest Green bean yield of 13.75 tons ha-1 and 16.06 tons ha-1 was obtained at the highest plant population (333333 plants ha-1) and the highest NPS rate (162 kg NPS ha-1), respectively. The highest acceptable marginal rates of return (57349%) and (6997.2%) were obtained from 333333 plants ha-1 and 162kg NPS ha-1, respectively. Thus, it can be concluded that 333333 plants ha-1 and application of 162kg NPS ha-1 were gained the superiority for both agronomic and economic growth and productivity for plati variety of Green bean under supplementary irrigation at Alage area. Key words: Green bean, plant population, NPS fertilizer rate, growth, yield.

Review on Effects of Various Inorganic Fertilizers and Cattle Manure on the Tuber Yield and Quality of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L) in Ethiopia

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is one of the most important and widely cultivated vegetable crops in Ethiopia. The application of organic and inorganic fertilizers highly influence yield and quality attributes of potato. In this article, the effects of different inorganic and organic fertilizers on potato yield and quality were reviewed. Potato yields explained in different terms like total tuber yield, marketable tuber yield, storage tuber weight, and unmarketable tuber yield. And qualities were dry matter, specific gravity, and starch. Fertilizers like nitrogen, phosphorous potassium, and blended fertilizers; like NPSB, NPS, NPSZB, NBS, KCL, and organic fertilizer cattle manure is major fertilizer used in potato production in Ethiopia. These fertilizers are influence yield and quality of potato in both combined and alone application forms. The application of inorganic and organic fertilizer was positively affected yield and quality attributes of potato. However, the combined application form enabled to obtain higher yields and quality than sole application. However, it enhances productivity; the sole application of inorganic fertilizer has a negative impact on soil characteristics. Cattle manure improves soil structure and increases the yield. During the combined application of inorganic and organic fertilizer, the yield and quality obtain were high and soil structure might not be affected that's why a low amount of inorganic fertilizer is utilized. Therefore, the integrated use of inorganic and organic fertilizers was suggested as the better option in obtaining higher yields, improvement in the quality of potato, and soil structure. Keywords: Cattle manure, Dry matter, Inorganic fertilizer, Starch, Total tuber yield. DOI: 10.7176/JBAH/10-22-01 Publication date: November 30 th 2020

Effects of Nitrogen and NPS Fertilizer Rates on Fresh Yield of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) at Debre Berhan, Ethiopia

Keeping in view of lack of recommended rates of N and NPS fertilizers, a field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of the newly introduced NPS fertilizer and nitrogen on growth, physiology and above ground biomass of garlic. Four NPS (0-0-0, 78.75-69-12.75, 105-92-17 and 131.25-115-21.25 kg N-P-S ha-1) and three nitrogen fertilizer rates (114.13, 228.26 and 278.33 kg N ha-1) were laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Significantly highest plant height (28.02 cm), leaf diameter (1.27 cm), dry and fresh weight (4.71 g and 6.11 g) and leaf length were recorded on garlic plants supplied with 105-92-17 kg N-P-S ha-1 and also the highest plant height (27.75 cm), leaf length (24.02 cm), fresh and dry weight (6.23 g and 5.04 g) were recorded on garlic plants supplied with 278.33 kg N ha-1. The interaction effect also show a significant effect in almost all the growth parameters; the early day to 50% emergence was recorded from a plot which received 228.26 kg N ha-1 and 105-92-17 kg NPS ha-1 and the highest plant height, leaf length, fresh and dry above ground biomass and leaf diameter were 29.62 cm, 25.60 cm, 6.93 g, 5.59 g and 1.4 cm, respectively were observed by the interaction of 278.33 kg N ha-1 and 105-92-17 kg N-P-S ha-1 with no significant difference with 228.26 N and 78.75-69-12.75 kg N-P-S ha−1. From this one season experiment, fertilizer rates 307.01-69-12.75 kg N-P-S ha−1 could be recommended for garlic production.

Effects of Organic Nutrient Sources and NPS Fertilizer on the Agronomic and Economic Performance of Haricot Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Southern Ethiopia

Despite the fact that mineral fertilizers are widely considered as a major option for addressing the crisis of nutrient depletion, their use among smallholder farmers is not adequate due to an escalating cost. Alternatively, nutrient-rich organic sources that are easily available to farmers are not widely promoted. Thus, this study was carried out in the research field of Wolaita Sodo University, Southern Ethiopia, to evaluate the effects of locally available organic nutrient sources and nitrogen (N) phosphorus (P) sulfur (S) fertilizer (19N-46P2O5-7S) on the productivity and economic performance of common bean. The organic materials used were Croton (Croton macrostachyus) and Erythrina (Erythrina brucei) at 2 : 1 ratio, respectively. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments for organic fertilizer (OF) were 0, 2.5, and 5 t·ha−1 and for NPS fertilizer were 0, 50, 100, and 150 kg·ha−1. Chemical composition analysis of organic materials showed high nutrient content where the amount varied from 4.7%–5.2% N, 11.07–18.6 mg/kg P, and 2.12%–3.07% K. Results on agronomic parameters revealed that the leaf area index, grain weight, number of pods per plant, dry matter per plant, and grain yield of haricot bean were significantly affected by both main and combined effects of NPS and OF fertilizers. The grain yield under integrated application of 150 kg NPS/ha and 2.5 t·OF/ha (4.16 t/ha) was significantly higher than that obtained from unfertilized crop (1.01 t/ha) by 312%. Additionally, it resulted in 34%, 31%, and 79% yield increment over the blanket dose (100 kg·NPS·ha−1), 2.5 t/ha and 5 t/ha, respectively. It was also noted that resource-poor farmers, compared to unfertilized crop, can get grain yield superior by 130% and 214% using sole OF at 2.5 and 5 t·ha−1, respectively. Furthermore, the highest economic benefit (27, 179.5EtB) was recorded from 150 kg NPS/ha + 2.5 t·OF/ha. The finding suggested that locally available organic materials of plant origin alone/integrated with NPS fertilizer are helpful for increased yield of haricot bean.

Effects of Blended NPS Fertilizer Rates on Yield and Yield Components of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Varieties at Dessie Zuria District, Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, the average yield of potato is far below the potential due to different problems like in appropriate agronomic practices. Hence, this research was done to evaluate the effects of NPS fertilizer rates on yield and yield components of potato. The study was conducted at Dessie Zuria district, Ethiopia during dry season of 2015. A factorial combination of six level of NPS fertilizer (0:0:0, 111:89.7:0, 111:89.7:16.52, 55:89.7:16.52, 111:44.85:8.26 and 55:44.85, 8.26) kg ha-1 and two potato varieties were plotted in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The highest plant height of potato (87.60 cm) was recorded on 111: 89.7:16.52 kg ha-1 of NPS fertilizer rate. Belete variety supplied with 111: 89.7:16.52 kg ha-1 of NPS fertilizer rate recorded the maximum days (124.3) to maturity of potato. Similarly, Belete variety recorded the higher biomass than local variety. The 111:89.7:16.52 kg ha-1 and 55.5:89.7:16.52 kg ha-1 of NPS fertilizer rates showed the highest aboveground biomass (103.24 g hill-1) and underground biomass of potato (290.9 g hill-1) respectively. The highest average tuber number per hill (15.67), tuber weight per hill (1.82 kg), marketable (53.61 t ha-1), unmarketable (0.542 t ha-1) and total (54.15t ha-1) tuber yield were recorded on potato which was applied with 55.5: 89.7:16.52 kg ha-1 of NPS fertilizer rate. In all characteristics of growth and yield of potato, Belete variety was better than local variety. Similarly, potato fertilized with 55.5: 89.7:16.52 kg ha-1of NPS fertilizer rate was showed highest yield than other rates. Keywords: Potato; fertilizer rates; variety; marketable yield; tuber yieldDOI: 10.7176/JBAH/10-13-01Publication date:July 31st 2020

Adoption of NPS Fertilizer on Sorghum Crop Production by Smallholder Farmers in Gemechis and Mieso Districts of West Hararghe Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia

The adoption of inorganic fertilizer such as NPS which is concerned by development clients and government is different from one farmer to another farmer and this makes productivity of agricultural crops to vary from one plot to another plot due to socio-economic, institutional and other factors. Therefore, this study was intended to know the socio-economic factors that significantly affect utilization of inorganic fertilizer NPS. Primary data was collected from 201 sampled households of selected districts. Secondary data was collected from stakeholders related with production of sorghum and inorganic fertilizer NPS in the study areas. In the sampling procedure, two stage simple random sampling was used. In the first stage, kebeles were randomly taken from total kebeles in the two districts. In the second stage, households were randomly selected from the selected kebeles. Data was analyzed using descriptive, inferential statistics and econometric models methods of data analysis. In econometric models Double Hurdle model was use to know factors affect adoption decision of inorganic fertilizer NPS and intensity use of inorganic fertilizer NPS. Double Hurdle model result confirms that district of the household, education level, family size, extension visit, expectation of the coming rainfall by the household, number of farm plot owned, total farm land owned and off/non-farm income earned by the household significantly affect adoption decision inorganic fertilizer NPS. Double hurdle model result also reveals that, district of the household, livestock holding, number of farm plot owned, participation on agricultural training by the household significantly affect intensity use of inorganic fertilizer NPS. Government and concerned stakeholders should give attention on these significant socio-economic factors so that utilization inorganic fertilizer can be improved to sorghum crop productivity.

Effect of Blended NPS Fertilizer and Varieties on Seed Quality, of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Haramaya, Eastern Ethiopia

There is no information on the role of blended NPS fertilizer required to produce quality seeds of wheat in Ethiopia. Thus, this study was conducted to assess the status of how the quality of wheat seeds had been affected by NPS fertilizer. The laboratory experiment conducted during 2018 in completely randomized design (CRD) with four replications and the seeds of the three varieties evaluated/tested after harvesting of three bread wheat varieties planted in the field which is fertilized with eight blended fertilizer rates ( 0, 25, 50, 75, 100,125,150, and 175kg, ha -1 NPS fertilizer during 2017 cropping season. The seed quality test after harvest indicated that all seed quality parameters significantly influenced by separate effect of variety and the application of blended NPS fertilizer except moisture content of seeds not significantly influenced by the two factors and dead seeds not significantly influenced by varieties. The two factors interacted to influence only a thousand seeds weight and dead seeds. The result showed that highest value of the germination percentage (95.17%), dry weight (25 mg) and vigour index two (23.82) were recorded from the plot received 150 kg ha -1 l t. Similarly highest mean value of the speed of the germination (30.41) and vigour index one (19.35) was recorded on the 175 kg NPS ha -1 fertilizers. In the case of the thousand seed weight significantly the highest (48.95 g) and the lowest (39.13) mean was recorded on the interaction effect of the Kakaba interact with 175 Kg NPS fertilizer and Qulqulu interact with control treatments consecutively. Furthermore, the results of the experiment showed that significantly the highest mean value of the germination percentage (93.44%), seedling shoot length (9.48cm) seedling dry weight (23.98 mg and seed vigour index one (19.31) recorded on the Qululu and Shorima varieties respectively. The results indicate wheat crop seed quality attributes will be increased /affected due to the synergic effect of NPS fertilizer rate and genotype. Therefore, it can be concluded that the using of 150 /175kg NPS ha -1 and the growing of Qulqulu variety could be a better choice to obtain desired seed quality. DOI: 10.7176/JNSR/10-7-02 Publication date: April 30 th 2020

Evaluation of Sesame Yield and Yield Component under Different NPS Fertilizer Rates in Western Tigray, Ethiopia

Field experiments were conducted in three sites of Western Tigray, Ethiopia. The experiments aimed at identifying optimum the rate of the newly introduced NPS fertilizer impact with different levels on growth, yield attributes, yield and economics of sesame in vertisols of Western Tigray at the Humera station, Banat and Kebabo Kafta Humera and Tsegede Wereda’s. The treatments consisted of six levels of NPS 0, 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 kg ha-1 and one blanket recommendation N and P was applied. The experiment was laid out in an RCBD with three replications. Yield of Sesame and yield related components showed significant difference (p &lt; 0.001) compared to control. Results showed that number of branches plant-1, length of pod bearing zone (cm), plant height (cm), number of capsules plant-1, seeds capsule-1 and seed yield was significant differences at (P&lt; 0.001) Grain yield increases from 444.8 kg ha-1 to 671.9 kg ha-1 as NPS and 444.8 kg ha-1 to 628 kg ha-1 as NP increases from 0 (control) to 100 kg ha-1 NPS and 41 kg N and 46 kg P205 ha-1 respectively. But NPS was not significant with blanket recommendation of N and P (41 kg N and 46 kg P205 ha-1), therefore no need to replace the NP by NPS fertilizer in the study area.

Integrated application of compound NPS fertilizer and farmyard manure for economical production of irrigated potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) in highlands of Ethiopia

Application of organic and inorganic fertilizers is essential for sustainable production of crops including potato. This study was therefore initiated to identify the optimum rate of farmyard manure (FYM) and blended compound NPS fertilizer for profitable production of potato in Koga Irrigation Scheme, Northwestern highlands of Ethiopia. Four rates of FYM (0, 4.5, 9, and 13.5 t ha−1) and NPS fertilizer (0, 81.7, 163.4, and 245.1 kg ha−1) were laid down in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The results revealed that FYM and blended NPS fertilizer as well as their combination influenced most of the tested growth and yield parameters of potato including plant height, main stem number, and tuber weight. Application of 245.1 kg ha−1 NPS combined with 13.5 t ha−1 FYM recorded the highest marketable and total tuber yields of 43.52 and 47.04 t ha−1, respectively. Although, the highest marginal rate of return was obtained from plants supplied with the combination of 4.5 t ha−1 FYM and 163.4 kg ha−1 NPS fertilizer, combined application of 245.1 kg ha−1 NPS and 13.5 t ha−1 FYM is recommended for economical production of potato in the study area as it recorded the highest net benefit with acceptable marginal rate of return.

Integrated Effects of Vermi-compost and NPS Fertilizer Rates on Soil Chemical Properties and Maize Production in Bedele District, Western Oromia

Integrated plant nutrient management is the application of inorganic fertilizer in combination with organic fertilizer to maintain soil fertility and balance nutrient supply in order to boost up the crop yield per unit area. A study was conducted in Bedele District on farmers' fields to find out the combined effects of vermi-compost (organic fertilizer) and NPS (inorganic fertilizer) rates on soil chemical properties and maize production. The treatments consisted of three levels of vermi-compost (0, 1.5 and 3 t ha-1) and three levels of NPS fertilizer (0, 100 and 200 kg ha-1). The experiment was laid out in RCBD design in factorial combination with three replications. laboratory analysis results of composite soil samples collected before sowing showed deficiency in soil chemical properties. However, analysis of variance of post harvest composite soil samples collected from each plot indicated significant differences on soil available P, OC, TN and CEC while, soil pH and exchangeable acidity showed positive improvement as compared to initial soil sample. The analysis of variance among the treatments showed significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) on almost all the maize characters tested. The highest and lowest maize grain yield (7932.1 kg ha-1) and (1944.4 kg ha-1) were obtained from the treatment combination of 3 t ha1 vermi-compost with 200 kg ha-1 NPS and 92 kg ha-1 N, and control plot, respectively. However this combination was statically at par with the treatment combination of 1.5 t ha-1 vermi-compost with 200 kg ha-1 NPS and 92 kg ha-1 N, which gave maize grain yield (7577.2 kg ha-1). Therefore, the present study showed that combined fertilization of vermi-compost and NPS fertilizer enhanced maize productivity and soil fertility status in the study area; indicated that maize productivity in the study sites were reduced due to high demand for external nutrient inputs. Hence combined fertilization of 1.5 t ha1 vermi-compost with 200 kg ha-1 NPS and 92 kg ha-1 N could improve maize productivity and soil chemical properties, and recommended for the study area (Bedele District) and similar agro-ecology. The result also showed that the soils of the study sites had poor chemical fertility and integrated soil fertility management practices can improve the current situation.

Effects of blended NPS fertilizer rates on yield and yield components of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) varieties at Dessie Zuria district, Northeast Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, the average yield of potato is far below the potential due to different problems like in low soil fertility. Hence, this research was done to evaluate the effects of blended NPS fertil...

Effect of Blended NPS Fertilizer Rates on Growth Performance of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L) at Wolaita Sodo University, Ethiopia

Filed experiment was conducted as Wolaita sodo University, college of agriculture and department of horticulture filed site to evaluate the response of vegetative growth of tomato to different rate of NPS application. The size of total plot is 7.5m X 5.5m (41.25m 2 ) and the size of each plot was 1.50m X 1.50m (2.25m 2 ). Three rate of blended NPS fertilizer at 80kg /ha, 160kg/ha and 240kg/ha with control (check). The experiment was lay out with 12 plots having 3 blokes and each block have four plots. The data on plant height per plant, the primary branches per plant, and the number of leaves per plants were collected from three plants of the middle rows of each plot and subjected to statistical analysis using ANOVA with computing the treatment by least significance difference at 5 %. As the result the number of leaf number shows significant (P 0.05) different. This shows the tomato crop requires high amount NPS supply enough to maintain the branch, plant height, and the leaf number of tomato vegetative growth. Application of 240kg/ha of blended NPS fertilizer did showed significant factors for all growth parameters. Hence, as this research revealed that application of 240kg/ha was the optimum level for effective vegetative performance of tomato. However, to come up concrete recommendation the study should be repeated across the season and up to yield . Keywords : Tomato, blended NPS fertilizer, Plant height, Leaf number, branch number DOI : 10.7176/JNSR/9-24-01 Publication date: December 31 st 2019

English

Tef is a stable crop in Ethiopia in which its yield is constrained by poor soil fertility management. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted for two consecutive years during 2016 and 2017 on clayey textural soil to assess the effect of vermicompost and inorganic fertilizer rates on yield and yield components of tef. Accordingly, field experiment with four levels of vermicompost (0, 2, 4 and 6 t ha-1) and four levels of NPS (0, 100, 150 and 200 kg ha-1) were arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD) in a factorial combination with three replications. A tef variety, qunco was used as test crop. Analysis of the data revealed that highest grain yield (2269.80 kg ha-1) was obtained from the treatment of 4 t vermicompost ha-1+150 kg NPS ha-1. Significantly highest straw yield (6480.60 kg ha-1) was obtained from the treatment of 6 t vermicompost ha-1+200 kg NPS ha-1, but statistically similar with 4 t vermicompost ha-1 +150 kg NPS ha-1. To evaluate the feasibility of the treatments with view of farmers’ practices, a partial budget analysis was conducted on straw and grain yield of tef and accordingly the highest marginal rate of return 4184% were obtained from combined fertilization of 4 t vermicompost ha-1 and 150 kg NPS ha-1. Therefore, based on the data obtained from this study application of 4 t vermicompost ha-1 and 150 kg NPS ha-1 will be recommended as profitable for the production of tef at Beles kebelle Tahtay Koraro district. Key words: Integrated nutrient management, NPS fertilizer tef yield, vermicompost.

Effect of NPS Fertilizers Application and Irrigation System on Growth and Yield of Snap Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris l): A Review

Snap bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the most important vegetable crop for export and local market. Even though snap bean is many important, the yield haven been obtained is low mainly due to decline soil fertility and irrigation system problems. Now a day’s Ethiopian soils not only limiting phosphorus and nitrogen nutrients, but also sulfur is a major problem. Water stress that reduced yield and pod quality of snap bean. Irrigation schedule is very crucial to make the most efficient use of irrigation system to avoid excessive water and shortage problem. Snap bean required high amount of nitrogen fertilizer, due to its weak fixation capacity of atmospheric nitrogen. Application of nitrogen at 150 kg N ha -1 increased growth and pod yield parameters snap bean. The optimum rate of phosphorus at 21 kg P ha -1 was applied at the time of seeding in the form of triple super phosphate for snap bean production in Ethiopia. Application of sulfur at 30 kg S ha -1 increased nitrogen, phosphorus and sulfur nutrient availability. Today there is lack of information on snap bean production in Ethiopia, especially NPS fertilizers application and under different irrigation system. Snap bean producers needs optimum rate of NPS fertilizers application and with different irrigation system, so research institutions and higher learning educations generate information to snap bean producers in Ethiopia at site-specific. Keywords: Fertilizers, Irrigation System, Snap bean, Yield DOI : 10.7176/JBAH/9-19-05 Publication date :October 31 st 2019