College of Plant Science & Crop Production

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    EFFECTS OF SHADE DENSITY AND ORGANIC FERTILIZER RATE ON GROWTH AND EARLY FIELD ESTABLISHMENT OF SOME COCOA (Theobroma cacao L.) GENOTYPES
    (2025-01-15) ALPHEUS, OLUYEMI SIMON
    ABSTRACT Cocoa is an important tropical commodity tree crop. Its estimated world production was 5.9 million tons in 2024. Cocoa is fraught with problems of cultivated varieties among others. Thus, newly-released varieties were tested under shade densities and compost rates in the nursery and fields of the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta and Owena station of Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria. The nurseryexperiment was 3x9x4 factorial in split-split plot laid out in Completely Randomized Design replicated three times. Three shade densities (0, 25, and 50%), Nine cocoa varieties (F3-amazon, CRINTc-1, CRINTc-2, CRINTc-3, CRINTc-4, CRINTc-5, CRINTc-6, CRINTc-7, CRINTc-8) and four compost rates (0, 0.8, 1.7 and 2.5 tons/ha) were allotted main, sub and sub-sub-plot treatments respectively. Data were taken on Percentage emergence and growth. The field trialwas 4x2x4 factorial in split-split plot laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design replicated four times. Main plot comprised four shade densities (0, 50, 100 and 200 of cocoa planting densities), sub plot comprised two cocoa varieties (F3 Amazon and Polyclonal) while sub-sub-plot contained four compost rates (0, 2, 4 and 6tons/ha). Data taken on Percentage survival and growth were subjected to analysis of variance procedures. Treatment means were separated by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (P≤ 0.05). At 4 Weeks After Sowing (WAS), highest seedling emergence of 90% was recorded from sown under 50% shade while, lowest emergence of 54% was recorded on those sown under 0% shade. At 18 WAS, seedlings raised from CRIN TC-1 at 50% shade and 0.8 tons/ha compost produced tallest plant (49.3cm) while those raised from CRIN TC-4 at0% shade and zero compost had shorter plant (22.7cm). On the field at Owena,F3-amazon with 2 tons/hacompost application and Polyclonal with 6 tons/hacompost transplanted under 200% shade had higher survival rate (80%) compared to the least survival (31%) recorded in Polyclonal treated to zero compost application and 0% shade. On the field at Abeokuta, F3-Amazon with 6 tons/hacompost and Polyclonal with 4 tons/hacompost under 200% shade had higher survival rate of 49 and 48% respectively, compared to the least (13%) recorded under F3-Amazon treated to zero fertilizer and 0% shade.Cocoa seedlings transplanted under 100% shade was 99.2cm in height while the unshaded transplants were 76.0cm height tall at Owena. Seedlings transplanted under 200% shade was 69.4cm taller than the unshaded transplants with 55.4cm height at Abeokuta. Cocoa transplant with 4 tons/hacompost were taller (99.2cm) compared to the unfertilized (77.8cm) in Owena while in Abeokuta, cocoa transplantswith 6 tons/hacompost were taller (70.1cm) compared to the unfertilized (50.8cm). In conclusion, sowing of cocoa seed under 50% density with 1.7 tons/ha compost was optimum for growth of cocoa seedlings in the nursery. Transplanting of cocoa seedlings under 200% shade density and with 6 tons/ha was compost was optimum for the survival and growth on the field.
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    EFFECTS OF SIMPLE ENGINEERING APPROACHES AND POULTRY MANURE APPLICATION ON SOIL EROSION CONTROL AND MAIZE (Zea mays L.) YIELD IN A DERIVED SAVANNA SLOPY LAND
    (2024-01-23) AKANNI, SODIQ DIMEJI
    ABSTRACT Soil erosion is a form of soil degradation which involves process caused by the dynamic activity of erosive agents and anthropogenic activities affecting agricultural lands. This study estimated the effects of simple engineering approaches and poultry manure (PM) application on soil erosion control and its economic implication on maize yield in a derived savanna slopy land. The experiment was conducted during the early 2019 and late 2020 planting seasons at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. The experiment was a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement with three replications, fitted into a Randomized Completely Block Design. Maize was planted using four simple engineering approaches (Surface mat, Silt fencing, Furrow dike and Control) as erosion control measures. Two levels of PM (0 t ha-1 and 20 t ha-1) were incorporated into the soil. Soil pins were erected and erosion plots were laid to quantify eroded soil from each plot. The annual soil loss was estimated using the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance using GENSTAT 12TH edition. The results showed that the lowest soil losses of 1.30 t ha-1 yr-1 and 1.0 t ha-1 yr-1 were obtained from plots under surface mat in 2019 and 2020, respectively compared with other engineering approaches. The bulk density of soil was not significantly affected by engineering approaches. Plots under surface mats, however, had the lowest bulk density (1.12 g cm-3) in 2019. Highest saturated hydraulic conductivity (11.49 cm hr-1) in 2019 and (10.71 cm hr-1) in 2020 were recorded on plots treated with 20 t ha-1 poultry manure (PM20) which was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher than the control, suggesting an improve soil structure. Application of PM20 resulted in a slightly acidic (soil pH 6.31) and increased the soil total nitrogen (N), available phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) compared with the unmanured plots. Significant differences were not observed as a result of simple engineering approaches effects on soil chemical properties with the exception of silt fencing which increased N, P and K compared with the control. Grain yield (1,598.5 kg ha-1) were significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) in 2019 and 2020 (2,116.4 kg ha-1) on plots with surface mat combined with PM20 respectively. Surface mat was more effective in reducing soil loss compared with other simple engineering approaches. Soil physical and chemical properties were improved by the application of PM. Growth and yield of maize were improved on plots with silt fencing but resulted in a negative economic benefit while practice of surface mat was economically viable with PM application. Economically, surface mat produced the highest profit gain which was 149% greater than the control. Therefore, the use of surface mat in combination with poultry manure should be used to reduce soil loss, enhance the soil physical and chemical properties and also increase maize yield.
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    EFFECTS OF SOME FUNGICIDE ON INCIDENCE AND SEVERITY OF LEAF BLIGHT AND FRUIT ROT DISEASES OFCUCUMBER
    (2025-04-22) MORONFOLU, OLUMIDE ALANI
    ABSTRACT Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is a widely consumed fruit vegetable popular for its nutritional, economic, and health benefits. In Nigeria, its production is significantly threatened by Leaf Blight (LB) and Fruit Rot (FR) fungal diseases, causing yield losses of 60% to 76%, when not controlled. This study therefore evaluated the effects of three fungicides; FS (Five Star (Azoxystrobin 200 g/L + Difenoconazole 125 g/L SC), DF (Dew Force (Pyraclostrobin 40 g/L + Dithomethorm 72 g/L EC), and RG (Ridomil Gold (Metalaxyl 40 g/kg + Mancozeb 640 g/kg) for the management of incidence and severity of LB and FR diseases on two cucumber varieties, Amarsia Super F1 and Oliver Bold F1. The experiment was conducted during the 2023 and 2024 late and early planting seasons respectively, at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. Treatments were arranged in a split-plot fitted into Randomized Complete Block Design with three replicates. Cucumber variety was the main plot, while fungicide treatments were assigned to sub plots. Fungicides were applied once in 2 Weeks After Sowing (WAS) for 5 consecutive weeks. Data on disease incidence and severity were collected. Analysis of Variance was performed and significant means were separated using DMRT at a 5% significance level. Fungal pathogens were isolated on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), and residue analysis was done via UV-visible spectrophotometer. Result shows that FS, RG, and DF reduced LB incidence to 33%, 44%, and 77% respectively at 5 WAS compared to control 100%. However, all treatments showed 100% LB incidence at 7 WAS. The DF fungicide had the lowest disease severity (1.33), followed by RG (1.67) and FS (2.00), while control had the highest (3.67). Fruit rot incidence was lowest on FS (5.56%), followed by DF (7.33%) and RG (9.22%), relative to 74% in the control. Disease severity was lowest in RG (0.22), DF (0.22), and FS (0.33), compared to 2.44 in the control. The FS fungicide enhanced the highest marketable fruit (91% = 5690.67g), followed by DF (89% = 4858.00g), and RG (84% = 3888.33g), compared to 35% yield and 720.67g weight in the control. Fungal species identified as associated with leaf blight symptoms included Aspergillus niger, Fusarium spp., Alternaria cucumerina, and Cercospora spp., while pathogenicity test confirmed Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium spp., and Pythium spp. as the causal organism for fruit rot disease. Residue analysis showed that Metalaxyl (0.000068 mg/kg), Mancozeb (0.000049 mg/kg), Azoxystrobin (0.000049 mg/kg), Difenoconazole (0.000032 mg/kg), Pyraclostrobin (0.000053 mg/kg) and Dithomethorm (0.000038 mg/kg) contamination of fruits remained within acceptable Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs).In conclusion, the three fungicides Five Star, Dew Force and Ridomil Gold along with early planting effectively reduced disease incidence and severity with good yield and had a standard safe residue level in cucumber fruits.
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    EFFECTS OF SWEET POTATO (Ipomea batatas L.) INTERCROP ON INFESTATION OF OKRA (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) BY FLEA BEETLE Podagrica spp. (COLEOPTERA:CHRYSOMELIDAE)
    (2024-09-20) OLALEYE, ADEBAYO PETER
    ABSTRACT Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) is an important fruit vegetable crop and source of calorie for human consumption. Its production is constrained by a complex of insect pests among which flea beetles alone cause more than 56% damage. This study determined the density of flea beetles, leaf damage and yield in A. esculentus intercropped with I. batatas and determined Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) of okra in the intercrop. The study was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta in the late planting season, 2020 (Dry) (November - December) and was repeated in early planting season, 2021 (Wet) (July-August). The okra and sweet potato varieties NHAE 47- 4 and Saba were planted on ridges separated by a 1 m spacing. The treatments in the study are sole Abelmoschus esculentus, sole Ipomea batatas, single alternate row of A. esculentus and I. batatas, single alternate row of I. batatas and A. esculentus, double row of A. esculentus and single alternate row of I. batatas, double row of I. batatas and single alternate row of A. esculentus, double row of I. batatas and double alternate row of A. esculentus, double row of A. esculentus and double alternate row of I. batatas. The treatments were replicated three times and laid out using Randomized Complete Block Design. Data were collected from 6 tagged plants at 4,6 and 8 weeks after planting on number of insects, plant height, number of damaged and undamaged leaves, number of damaged and undamaged okra pod/plant, number of tubers per plot, weight of tubers per plot and percentage of damaged pods was determined. Data on insect numbers was transformed using √(x + 0.5), while data on percentage was log-transformed before analysis. All data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance and significant means were separated using Student-Newman Keuls Test (SNK) at 5% level of probability. In the late and early planting seasons, number of flea beetles (1.76 and 2.92 respectively) in plots planted with sole okra were significantly (p< 0.05) higher than in plots planted with okra and sweet potato intercrop. In the late planting season, leaf damage (69.67%) was higher than the leaf damage (65.39%) in the early planting season. In the early planting season, the plot planted with sole okra had the highest yield (3.32 t/h) compared to (3.10 t/h) during the late planting season. In 2020, LER of the intercrop was 3.72, while it was 1.59 in 2021. The LER being above 1.0 indicates that higher productivity per unit area was achieved by growing the crops together than growing them separately. Sole okra plots had higher flea beetle infestation which affected growth, pod formation, fruit weight and pod yield. Intercropping okra with sweet potato reduced the flea beetle population hence reducing leaf damage caused by Podagrica spp. It is also concluded that okra intercropped with sweet potato at different arrangements significantly reduced and controlled the population of Podagrica spp compared to when okra is planted as sole.
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    Efficacy of Bacillus cereus as biocontrol agent against key fungal isolates of Soybean (Glycine Max [L.] Merril) seeds from three Agro-ecological zones in Nigeria
    (2025-01-22) Ajamu Oluwabunmi Deborah
    ABSTRACT Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) has become increasingly important in industrial and culinary applications, cultivated across all continents. However, despite substantial growth in acreage and production, soybean productivity remains challenged by various diseases that can severely impact yield and quality. This study evaluated the effectiveness of Bacillus cereus as a biocontrol agent against key fungal pathogens affecting soybean seeds collected from Ibadan, Ikenne, and Kano. This study is aimed at identifying different B. cereus strain and identify the most aggressive strain of B. cereus from these locations. Seeds from five accessions were collected from three distinct agro-ecological zones in Nigeria, and fungal pathogens were isolated using PDA medium. Nine significant seed-borne fungi were identified through conventional and molecular methods: Botryodiplodia theobromae, Phomopsis sp., Fusarium verticilioides, F. oxysporum, Cercospora kikuchii, C. sojina, Sclerotium rolfsii, Macrophomina phaseolina, and Curvularialunata. The study employed a completely randomized design (CRD) to investigate the effects of B. cereus on seed-borne and seed-transmitted diseases in a screen house experiment. Each seed was treated with three B. cereus suspensions (106 CFU/ml), with three replicates conducted over two seasons. Biochemical tests and molecular characterization confirmed the three selected B. cereus strains, while in vitro assays demonstrated significant antagonistic effects against the pathogens. Notable differences (p ≤ 0.05) over 12 days indicated that the Kano isolate exhibited the highest aggressiveness compared to those from Ikenne and Ibadan. Analysis of variance revealed significant variations (p ≤ 0.05) among locations and treatments. The findings suggest that B. cereus effectively suppresses the growth of seed-borne and seed-transmitted pathogens in soybean, supporting its use as a biocontrol agent. Additionally, the study emphasizes the variability in biocontrol efficacy and aggressiveness among different B. cereus strains.
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    EVALUATION OF SEED YIELD AND QUALITY PARAMETERS IN SOME MAIZE (Zea mays L) HYBRIDS IN TWO AGROECOLOGICAL ZONES IN SOUTHWESTERN NIGERIA.
    (2024-10-25) ADERIYE, KEHINDE SAMSON OLUSOLA
    ABSTRACT Determination of physical and physiological characteristics in seed quality is important to crop production. However, little information exists in this aspect in some newly developed hybrids maize in Nigeria. The study assessed the forty maize (Zea mays L) hybrids for seedling growth, seed quality (SQ) traits and seed yield (SY). The experimental fields were located in Ibadan, Oyo State and Ikenne in Ogun State. Ibadan representing Derived savannah was on 3° 56´ E ; 7° 33´ N 168 m above sea level (asl) while Ikenne, a rain forest zone was located on 3o 42` E ; 6o 54` N 062 m asl. The field evaluation was conducted from August to November, 2021. The field trial was laid out in a Randomised Complete Block Design with three replicates both in Ibadan and Ikenne, Nigeria, to evaluate the yield of the hybrids. SQ assessment was done in March 2022 at the Seed Laboratory of Institute of Agricultural Research and Training Ibadan and the Laboratory of Department of Plant Breeding and Seed Technology, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta in a Complete Randomized Design with three replicate. SQ parameters involving germination such as number of seed planted, normal germinated seeds, total number of normal germinated seedling, seedling length, were transformed using arc-sine to get Mean Germination Time (MGT), Seedling Vigour Index(SVI) and Seedling Germination index(SGI) before analysis. Seed physical parameters such as projected area(PA), straight length(SL), curve length(CL), straight width(SW), curve width(CW), curvature(C), Surface area circle(SAC) and projected perimeter(PA) were taken. Data collected on SY and SQ were subjected to analysis of variance. The treatment means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test at 5% probability. Pearson’s correlation analysis was used to detect the association among SY and various quality parameters. The results showed highly significant differences (p< 0.01) in SY, seed physiological and physical parameters of the maize hybrids. Hybrids ARTM 39, ARTM 4, ARTM 48 and ARTM 21 were the highest seed yielders with their corresponding values of 9.32 t ha-1, 8.45 t ha-1, 8.43 t ha-1 and 8.4 t ha-1 respectively, across locations. The seed physiological qualities showed that Hybrid ARTM 4 was superior to other hybrids. Seed physical parameters revealed that Hybrid ARTM 39 was the most superior in respect to PA, SL, CL, SW and CW. The SY significantly and positively correlated to the number of leaves (r=0.39**) at 6 weeks after sowing (WAS) (r=0.78). Similarly, seedling height (SH) had good association with mean germination time and seedling vigour index. The seedling weight (SWT) had highly significant and positive correlation with mean germination time (r=0.33**) while SVI and SGI showed significant association with one another (r=0.94**). There was positive association among all the traits of seed physical quality except for seed curvature. It is concluded that Hybrids ARTM 39, ARTM 4, ARTM 48 and ARTM 21 had moderate surface area circle showing good seed physical quality, physiological quality and SY which contributed to the yield of the hybrids. The hybrids listed are therefore, recommended to the seed companies for exploration of their yield potential.
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    GENETIC ANALYSIS OF AGRO-NUTRITIONAL TRAITS IN CROSSES AND INBRED LINES OF OKRA (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) UNDER CONTRASTING ENVIRONMENTS
    (2024-11-25) ALAWODE, YETUNDE OPEYEMI
    ABSTRACT Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) has notable nutraceutical and therapeutic attributes. However, it is underexploited and the genetic diversity of this crop is enormous for precise evaluation of its nutritional enhancement. This investigation was done to assess genetic diversity, environmental stability, combining ability, gene action, and nutritional value of various okra genotypes. Four experiments were carried out at the Teaching and Research Farms of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (7.15°N, 3.36°E), and Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ayetoro (7° 14′20.62′′N, 3° 1′57.31′′E) from May 2018 to December 2021, using randomized complete block design in three replications. Thirteen agronomic and morphological descriptors were used to evaluate genetic variability among 30 Okra inbred lines. Thereafter, hybridization was done using the Line-by-tester mating design (three lines and nine testers). The twelve parents and 27 crosses obtained were evaluated morphologically in wet and dry seasons of 2019 and 2021. Nutritional evaluation was used to determine mineral contents (calcium, iron, and Vitamins A, C, and E). Data were subjected to analysis of variance while means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test at 5% probability level. Correlation, Coefficients of Variability (PCV, GCV), broad–sense heritability (Hb), and Genetic Advance (GA) were estimated. Additive and Dominance components, Gene Action, Combining Abilities (General and Specific), GGE Biplot and Single Linkage Clustering Analysis (SLCA) were also done to determine variability, gene effects and stability patterns. Results revealed significant (p ≤ 0.01) differences among the inbred lines and their crosses for all traits except leaf length and breadth and peduncle length. Locations, seasons, genotypes, and interactions also showed significant differences (p ≤ 0.01, p≤ 0.05) for fruit yield (FY) and 1000 seed weight (1000SW). The results also revealed highly significant values among the parents and their crosses for calcium, iron, zinc and vitamins. Significant and positive correlation was recorded for number of fruits per plant, FY and 1000SW across all environments. High PCV was recorded for calcium (25%) and iron (22%). PCV ranged from 39% (number of plants) to 14% (peduncle length). High heritability was observed for 1000SW (100%), while fruit diameter had low heritability (3.27%). Genetic advance was also high for plant height (32.74) but low for leaf breadth (3.41) and leaf length (9.18). The best general combiners for fruit yield were P1, P3, P5, P6, P7, while the best specific combiners for fruit yield were P1XP4, P1XP8, P2XP8, P3XP4, P3XP12. Results of the GGE biplot showed that the 8 environments fell into one sector where Abeokuta 2019 (wet season) is the most representative environment. Both G21 (NGB00322 x Yeleen) and G22 (NGB00326 x NGB00297) possess high yield and stable attributes. Eight clusters were identified in this study with Cluster I having the highest calcium and iron contents and cluster VI having the highest Vitamin A content. The study concluded that plant height, number of fruits, fruit length, fruit diameter and individual fruit weight are best characters to be selected for yield improvement, while P1XP8, P1XP11, P2XP7, P2XP11, P3XP9, P1XP8 and P1XP11 are superior hybrids for yield improvement
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    GENETIC ANALYSIS OF AGRO-NUTRITIONAL TRAITS INCROSSES AND INBRED LINES OF OKRA (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) UNDER CONTRASTING ENVIRONMENTS
    (2024-11-15) ALAWODE, YETUNDE OPEYEMI
    ABSTRACT Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus)has notable nutraceutical and therapeutic attributes. However, it is underexploited and the genetic diversity of this crop is enormous for precise evaluation of its nutritional enhancement. This investigation was done to assess genetic diversity, environmental stability, combining ability, gene action, and nutritional value of various okra genotypes. Four experiments were carried out at the Teaching and Research Farms of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (7.15°N, 3.36°E), and Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ayetoro (7° 14′20.62′′N, 3° 1′57.31′′E) from May 2018 to December 2021, using randomized complete block design in three replications. Thirteen agronomic and morphological descriptors were used to evaluate genetic variability among 30 Okra inbred lines. Thereafter, hybridization was done using the Line-by-tester mating design (three lines and nine testers). The twelve parents and 27 crosses obtained were evaluated morphologically in wet and dry seasons of 2019 and 2021. Nutritional evaluation was used to determine mineral contents (calcium, iron, and Vitamins A, C, and E). Data were subjected to analysis of variance while means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test at 5% probability level. Correlation, Coefficients of Variability (PCV, GCV), broad–sense heritability (Hb), and Genetic Advance (GA) were estimated. Additive and Dominance components, Gene Action, Combining Abilities (General and Specific), GGE Biplot and Single Linkage Clustering Analysis (SLCA) were also done to determine variability, gene effects and stability patterns. Results revealed significant (p ≤ 0.01) differences among the inbred lines and their crosses for all traits except leaf length and breadth and peduncle length. Locations, seasons, genotypes, and interactions also showed significant differences (p ≤ 0.01, p≤ 0.05) for fruit yield (FY) and 1000 seed weight (1000SW). The results also revealed highly significant values among the parents and their crosses for calcium, iron, zinc and vitamins. Significant and positive correlation was recorded for number of fruits per plant, FY and 1000SW across all environments. High PCV was recorded for calcium (25%) and iron (22%). PCV ranged from 39% (number of plants) to 14% (peduncle length). High heritability was observed for 1000SW (100%), while fruit diameter had low heritability (3.27%). Genetic advance was also high for plant height (32.74) but low for leaf breadth (3.41) and leaf length (9.18). The best general combiners for fruit yield were P1, P3, P5, P6, P7, while the best specific combiners for fruit yield were P1XP4, P1XP8, P2XP8, P3XP4, P3XP12. Results of the GGE biplot showed that the 8 environments fell into one sector where Abeokuta 2019 (wet season) is the most representative environment. Both G21 (NGB00322 x Yeleen) and G22 (NGB00326 x NGB00297) possess high yield and stable attributes. Eight clusters were identified in this study with Cluster I having the highest calcium and iron contents and cluster VI having the highest Vitamin A content. The study concluded that plant height, number of fruits, fruit length, fruit diameter and individual fruit weight are best characters to be selected for yield improvement, while P1XP8, P1XP11, P2XP7, P2XP11, P3XP9, P1XP8 and P1XP11 are superior hybrids for yield improvement
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    GENETIC DIVERSITY AND CHARACTER CORRELATION STUDIES AMONG SELECTED GENOTYPES OF OKRA, Abelmoschusesculentus(LINN) MOENCH ACROSS TWO ENVIRONMENTS
    (2024-12-22) AJANI MorufOlaide
    ABSTRACT Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) has caught global attention in terms of nutritional and medicinal properties. However, narrow genetic base of the crop impedes its improvement programme. To this end, genetic diversity and character correlation studies is inevitable. The experiment was designed on 35 okra genotypes collected from National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB), Ibadan to (i) determine the diversity among selected okra genotypes (ii) assess characters association and (iii) identify high-yielding genotypes. The research was carried out at Teaching and Research Farm of Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (70 15’ N 30 44’E) and the Field Genebank of NACGRAB, Ibadan (70 25’ N 30 51’E)between July and November, 2022. Data collected on 19 agro-morphological traits were analyzed using SAS 1999 package. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to detect significant differences among the 35 genotypes based on 19 agro-morphological traits. Significant means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to determine the contribution of each trait to the total variation observed. Broad sense heritability (H2) and Genetic Advance (GA) were also determined for each of those traits. Fastclus analysis was used for partitioning clustering on similarities, and variation within cluster. ANOVA showed highly significant (p<0.01) genotype effect on days to 50% flowering (DAF50), days to first fruiting (DFFR), number of pods (NP), seed yield per plot (SYP) while interaction effect was highly significant (p<0.01) in DFFR, NP, SYP, 100 seed weight (100SW). PCA showed 7 principal components with eigen values > 1 with PC 1 accounting for highest proportion variation of 23.00%, followed by PC 2 (9.00%) and PC 7 (5.12%) with cumulative variation of 65.28%. Broad-sense Heritability ranged from 0.02 for pod width (PDW) to 0.14 for 100SW while GA showed lowest value (2.94) for PDW and highest value (228.25) for SYP. Genotypic correlation coefficient showed that seed yield was highly and positively significant with days to emergence (DTE) (r = 1.00**), plant height (PH) (r = 1.00**), PDW (r = 0.44**) and negative correlation with day to first flowering (DFFL) (r = 1.00**), DAF50 (r = 0.14**), DFFR (r = 0.02**). Phenotypic correlation coefficient indicated that seed yield exhibited significant positive correlation with most traits. Fastclus analysis produced 7 clusters on similarities; Cluster 1 (11 genotypes), Cluster 2 (8 genotypes), Cluster 3 (3 genotypes), Cluster 4 (3 genotypes), Cluster 5 (6 genotypes), Cluster 6 (3 genotypes) and Cluster 7 (1 genotype). It was concluded there is diversity among the 35 okra genotypes with significant traits correlation among the characters considered. 1NGB0040, NGB00346, NGB00333, NGB00469, NGB00349, NGB02456, NGB00343, NGB00331, NGB02433, NGB00464, NGB00297 and NGB00298 are identified as high yielding, and recommended for heterosis breeding.
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    GROWTH AND FRUIT YIELD OFTHREE PEPPER (Capsicum spp.) SPECIES AS INFLUENCED BY WATER STRESS AT DIFFERENT GROWTH STAGE
    (2025-09-12) OBISESAN, AYOMIKUN TOBI
    ABSTRACT Capsicum spp.are highly valued spice that improves the flavor and scent of food.The degree, and timing of water stress determine how pepper reacts to water availability. Screen house experiments were carried out to determine the growth and fruit yield of three pepper species as influenced by water stress at different growth stages at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (Latitude 7025ꞌN; Longitude 3025ꞌE), Ogun state in 2024: First planting was from January to August while second planting was from July to December. Three pepper species: Hot pepper (Capsicum chinense), bell pepper (Capsicum annuum) and chilli pepper (Capsicum frutescens) were subjected to water stress at five different growth stages:Early Vegetative Stressed Stage (EVSS), Late Vegetative Stressed Stage (LVSS),Early Reproductive Stressed Stage (ERSS),Late Reproductive Stressed Stage (LRSS)and No Stress Condition (control). The experimental design was Completely Randomized Design with 45 treatment combinationin three replicates. Data were collected on micro-climate, vegetative and reproductive variables. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance using GENSTAT 12th edition. Treatment means were separated using Least Significant Difference at a 5% probability level. Water stress had no significant effect on the chlorophyll contents and soil temperature ofCapsicum species, but there was differential vegetative growth response. Capsicumchinense was affected by water stress at 4 Weeks After Transplanting (WAT), C annuum was affected at 4 and 12 WAT and C. frutescens at 8 and 12 WAT.Plant height and number of leavesof stressed plant showed significant reduction in values, irrespective of their growth stages. However, upon restoration of water at the EVSS, there was a significant increase in plant height of C.chinense, C. annumand C. frutescens by 112-149, 64-130 and 61-82%, respectively, and number of leaves in C annuumand C. frutescens by 154-384 and 140-257%, respectively. There was also a sharp decline in the number of leaves of C. annum and C. frutescens by 37 and 31% when stressed at ERSS. Number of days to 50% flowering of Capsicum spp. showed differential response to water stress. Flowering was earlier (50 DAT) when C. annuumwas not stressed and LRSS (51 DAT) while flowering was delayed (62-74 DAT) when plants were stressed at LVSS. Harvesting was delayed at the LVSS and LRSS particularly in C. chinense and C. annum with25 and 19% difference. ERSS was observed as the most critical stage for yield loss particularly in C. annum, and C. frutescens inthe first planting, with 42 and 62% decline, respectively, during the fruiting stage. Across all species, yield produced at EVSS was similar relative to that of unstressed plant except with C.chinense during second planting with 45% yield decline. In conclusion, plants stressed during the EVSS produced the optimum growth and fruit yield while plant stressed during the ERSS and LRSS had severe yield reduction. It is therefore recommended that water stress should be minimized, particularly during the ERSS and LRSS to prevent severe yield losses.
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    GROWTH, YIELD AND NUTRIENT CONTENTS OF CUCUMBER (Cucumis sativus L.) TREATED WITH POULTRY MANURE AND BOTANICALS
    (2024-09-23) AKINDOYIN, GBOYEGA EMMANUEL
    ABSTRACT Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) cultivation is increasing in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State in response to increasing demands. Nutrient deficiency and insect pests are, however, major constraints to its cultivation. The study therefore, aimed to determine optimum poultry manure (PM) and botanical extract (BE) rates required for optimum cucumber fruit yield and wholesomeness. The field trials were carried out in Sedfort Farms, Ogbe-Eruku (7o 00l N 3o 47l E) between July and September, 2023 for first planting (FP) and residual planting (RP) at two weeks after termination of FP between October and December 2023. Trial was laid out in split plot arrangement fitted into a Randomized Complete Block Design with four replicates. Main-plot was PM rate (0, 5, 10 and 15 t/ha) while subplot was BE of Azadirachta indica,Jatropha gossypifolia, Tithonia diversifolia applied at 10% w/v and 625 L two times a week from 2 to 8 weeks after planting and no-spray (control).Data were collected on: vine length (VL); number of leaves (NL); average leaf area (ALA); insect population density (IPD); severity of leaf damage; number of days to first male and female flowering; number of days to first fruiting; number of fruits per plant (NFP); fruit weight; yield per plant; yield per hectare (YPH); fruit firmness (FF); total soluble solids (TSS); vitamins A and C contents. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance and significantly different means were separated using Least Significant Difference at 5% probability level. Poultry manure rate and BE significantly influenced growth, yield and insect infestation. In both trials, cucumber treated with 10 or 15 t of PM had significantly longer vines, higher NL, wider ALA and higher YPH (50.25% or 52.19% in FP and 50.20% or 69.66% in RP, respectively). Cucumber that received 0 or 5 t PM in RP, had the least IPD while 10 or 15 t PM treatments had significantly higher IPD, with 46.03% or 49.02%, respectively. Leaf damage was least on cucumber that received no PM. Plants treated with 5, 10, 15 t of PM treatments had significantly higher leaf damage of 38.42%, 41.32% or 50.60% in FP and 37.68%, 36.42% or 41.24% in RP, respectively. Botanical extract did not affect VN, NL and ALA in both trials. Cucumber that received T. diversifolia spray had significantly higher NFP, YPH of 21.69%, 6.85% and 45.24%, 11.89% in FP and RP, respectively than control which had least observations. In the RP, use of BE significantly reduced IPD than no-spray. A. indica, T. diversifolia and J. gossypifolia had the same effect on IPD of cucumber. A. indica significantly reduced leaf damage by 24.73% in FP and 12.78% RP while no-spray had the highest leaf damage in both trials. FF, TSS, vitamin A and C were not significantly affected by PM and BE in both trials. In conclusion, application of PM at 10 t/ha and T. diversifolia extract at 10% w/v and 625 L/ha are recommended for optimum growth, yield, insect pests control and good quality in cucumber production.
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    IMPACT OF TILLAGE AND FERTILIZER REGIME ON SOIL NITRFYING BACTERIA AND ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI ACTIVITIES UNDER CASSAVA (Manihot esculenta L.) CULTIVATION
    (2023-09-30) THANNI, Bolaji Margaret
    ABSTRACT Farmers in south-west Nigeria are willing to adopt practices such as tillage and fertilizer to increase cassava root yield. Meanwhile, the adoption of these agronomic practices has implications for microorganisms that are related to both soil and cassava nutrition. A study was therefore carried out to determine the effect of tillage and fertilizer application on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and nitrifying bacteria populations in cassava cultivation. Additionally, the uptake of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in cassava and their concentration in the soil were monitored. The study was carried out in 2016 and 2017 on two farmers' fields each at Ido, and Odeda Local Government Areas in Oyo and Ogun state respectively. The experiment comprised two levels of plough till {single plough (SP) and zero plough (ZP)}, two levels of traditional ploughing {ridge (R) and flat (FL)} and fertilizer application {fertilized (F) and unfertilized (F1)} arranged in a split-split plot fitted in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replicates. Cassava variety TME 419 was planted at 1 m × 0.8 m spacing. Spores population and AMF species associated with cassava were isolated and identified. Per cent root colonization (RC) was determined by the grid-plate method while Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter were cultured on Winograsky selective media and colonies counted were expressed in colony-forming unit (CFU). N, P, and K uptake and root yield were determined at harvest. Data collected were subjected to Analyses of Variance using R statistics software version 3.6.2 for Windows and treatments means were separated using the Least Significant Difference at p < 0.05. Results showed a high spore population at 48 Weeks After Planting (WAP) in both locations for both years and no fertilizer application relatively led to a 12.7% increment in spore population in bot sites. A total of five AMF genera (Glomus, Acaulospora, Enthrospora, Gigaspora, and vii Scutellospora) were isolated from the soil while Glomus spp. predominated. Ploughing increased RC at Ido (26%) and Odeda (9%). Nitrosomonas spp. increased on single-ploughed flat and unfertilized plots. While there was inconsistency in the response of Nitrobacter spp to tillage and fertilizer application across locations in both years. At Ido, single ploughing led to 25%, and 13.4% increments in root yield in 2017 and 2018 respectively. While fertilizer application also increased yield by 13% in 2017 and a subsequent 13.4% in the preceding year. Similarly at Odeda, root yield increased on plots that were single ploughed and fertilized in both years. Plants with higher root yield had an increase in NPK accumulation and NPK concentrations increased under ZP. The study concluded that a combination of ploughing, ridging, and fertilizer application is favourable to high root yield in cassava and beneficial soil organisms such as AMF and some nitrifying bacteria.
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    MANURE SOURCE, SEASON AND TIME OF APPLICATION ON FRUIT YIELD, QUALITY AND NUTRIENT USE EFFICIENCY OF GOLDEN MELON
    (2025-09-02) AYENI, Olawale Sunday
    ABSTRACT Golden melon (Cucumis melo L.) is a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals. Optimizing manure application using various sources and appropriate application time can enhance its fruit yield and nutrient use efficiency without jeopardizing quality. This study evaluated the influence of manure source and time of application for optimum yield, fruit quality attributes and nutrient use efficiency of golden melon at different seasons. The experiment was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farms, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State (Latitude 7o 25'N, Longitude 3o 25'E) in the early and late seasons of 2023 and 2024. The experiment was in split plots fitted into a Randomized Complete Block Design replicated four times. Main plot treatments consisted of manure source: Cow dung, Poultry manure, Goat manure and Pig dung applied at 10 t. ha-1 each. Sub-plot was time of application at 1, 2 and 3 Weeks Before Planting (WBP) as well as same day planting. Data were collected on average fruit weight, total yield and fruit proximate composition using standard procedures. Nutrient use efficiency parameters calculated were agronomic efficiency (AE) and partial factor productivity (PFP). Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance using GenStat Discovery and means were separated using Least Significant Differences at 5% probability level. Yield and proximate composition of golden melon were higher during the early season relative to late season production. In the early season, golden melon cultivated with poultry manure applied at 1 WBP had highest fruit yield (16.60 ± 2.00 t. ha-1) while those cultivated with cow dung applied at 1 WBP had highest fruit dry matter (5.71 ± 1.00 %), carbohydrate (70.27 ± 2.00%), AE of nitrogen (49.45 ± 10.00 kg. ha-1), potassium (36.15 ± 3.00 kg. ha-1) and highest PFP of nitrogen (50.20 ± 13.00). During the late season, cultivation with poultry or goat manure applied at 2 WBP had highest fruit yield (4.38 ± 3.00 t. ha-1) while cultivation with goat manure applied at 2 WBP had highest crude protein (7.01 ± 1.00 %), carbohydrate (69.85 ± 2.00%), AE of phosphorus (42.55 ± 20.00 kg. ha-1) and potassium (11.92 ± 6.00 kg. ha-1). In conclusion, cultivation of golden melon in the early season with 10 t. ha-1 poultry manure or cow dung applied at 1 WBP gave optimum fruit yield and proximate composition. Cultivation with cow or pig dung applied at 2 WBP was effective for optimum nutrient use efficiency. In the late season, cultivation with 10 t. ha-1 poultry manure or goat manure at 2 WBP gave optimum fruit yield and proximate composition. Goat manure applied at 2 WBP was efficient for optimum nutrient use efficiency. For fruit yield and proximate composition, cultivating golden melon with poultry manure, goat manure or cow dung applied 1 or 2 WBPis optimum and is recommended while for optimum nutrient use efficiency, cultivation with goat manure applied 2 WBP is recommended for early and late season productions.