College of Plant Science & Crop Production

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://ir.funaab.edu.ng/handle/123456789/257

Browse

Recent Submissions

Now showing 1 - 20 of 28
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    INFLUENCE OF AGE AT TRANSPLANTING AND INTRA-ROW SPACING ON GROWTH AND AESTHETIC CHARACTERISTICS OF SOME FOUNDATION PLANTS IN THE LANDSCAPE
    (2025-06-23) FASINA, ABIMBOLA ADEFEMI
    ABSTRACT Foundation plants are important natural elements of visual landscapes. Understanding responses of different foundation plants to transplanting age and plant spacing is crucial for landscape development. The study was conducted to evaluate propagation, growth and aesthetic attributes of three plant species under different intra-row spacings and transplanting ages in the nursery and on the landscape of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (Latitude 7°15’N and Longitude 3° 25’E) in 2022 and 2023. Propagation of Duranta repens (Yellow bush), Buxus sempervirens (West indies) and Ixora coccinea (Jungle flame) was evaluated in experiment I. Stem cuttings of these plants were raised in the nursery in polyethylene pots filled with topsoil. Experiment II investigated the growth and aesthetic performance of the three plant species in the field under 25, 50 and 75 cm intra-row spacings and ages of 8, 10 and 12 weeks old at transplanting. Treatments in both Experiments I and II were laid out in Completely Randomized Design with three replicates. Data were collected on percentage rooted cuttings, percentage survival, number of leaves, plant height, number of branches, canopy spread, shoot fresh, shoot dry weights and aesthetic impression. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance and significant treatment means were separated using Least Significant Difference at 5% probability level. Results showed that there was no significant difference (p≥0.05) in percentage rooted and sprouted cutting among the three plant species. However, at 10 weeks after planting B. sempervirens had the tallest (17.23 cm) ramet with highest number of leaves/plant (123) and branches (9 branches/plant). Age at transplanting and spacing significantly affected percentage survival, number of leaves, plant height, number of branches, canopy spread, shoot fresh and dry weights, colour and form among the three plant species evaluated. Buxus sempervirens ramet transplantedat 10 weeks old using 25 cm intra-row spacingshortest period (180 days). Duranta repens ranked highest in terms of colour attractiveness while B. sempervirens performed better with form using visual assessment ranking. Canopy formation covering an area 1350 cm was in the order of B. sempervirens>D. repens>I. coccinea. Optimum growth and aesthetic characteristics in B. sempervirens and D. repens occurred when 10 weeks old ramets were transplanted at 50 cm intra-row spacing, and I. coccinea, when 12 weeks old ramet were transplanted at 25 cm intra-row spacing. The study concluded that B. sempervirens, D. repens and I. coccinea are suitable for use as foundation plants.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    PRODUCTIVITY OF COMPONENT CROPS IN CUCUMBER (Cucumis sativa L.) / MAIZE (Zea mays L.) INTERCROP AS INFLUENCED BY NITROGEN RATE AND MAIZE DENSITY IN A DERIVED SAVANNA AGROECOLOGY
    (2025-07-25) KOMOLAFE, HAFSAT ADEJOKE
    ABSTRACT Cucumber/maize intercropping demonstrates potential for increased productivity; however, a notable knowledge gap exists concerning the optimal nitrogen rate and maize density required to maximize yields. Field trials were established in 2021 and 2022 late season to investigate the productivity of cucumber/maize intercrop as influenced by varying maize density and nitrogen rate at the Teaching and Research Farms, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State (Latitude 7° 20' N, 3° 23' E, Longitude 3° 23' E, altitude 76 m above sea level). The trial was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design in a split-plot arrangement with three replicates. Treatments consisted of Maize density (MD): MD1-53,333 plants/ha, MD2- 35,555 plants/haand MD3-26,666 plants/ha each with cucumber density of 53,333 plants/ha staked in a single alternate row arrangement as the main-plot treatment and nitrogen rates (0, 60, 90, and 120 kg N/ha) on the sub-plots with blanket application each of 30 kg P2O5/ha and K2O/ha. Data were collected on maize plant height, stem girth, number of leaves, leaf area at 4, 8, and 12 WAP; cob length, cob girth, number of grain/cobs, number of grains/rows, 100 grain weight and grain yield at harvest. Cucumber number of leaves/plant, leaf area (cm2), main vine length (cm), total fruit weight (t ha-1), fruit length (cm) and fruit girth (cm) were determined as was done for maize. Land equivalent ratio (LER), area time equivalent ratio (ATER), actual yield loss (AYL) and aggressivity (A) were determined. In 2021, at 8 and 12 WAP, the biggest maize stem girth was recorded with application of fertilizer at 120 kg N/ha while in 2022, treatment with MD1 produced (p<0.05) bigger maize stem girth (13 cm) in contrast to MD2 and MD3. In 2021, treatments with MD1 had the highest (p<0.05) leaf area (2044 cm2) in contrast to MD2 and MD3 while in 2022, treatments in MD3 produced (p<0.05) the highest leaf area (1969 cm2). In 2021, grain yield of maize was highest (p<0.05) in MD1 (9.84 t ha-1), maize density had no significant effect on total fruit yield of cucumber (6.07 – 6.57 t ha-1 and 6.44 – 6.08 t ha-1) in both years. Application of 120 kg N/ha was significant for most maize growth and yield parameters except number of rows cob-1 in both years, treatment with MD1 and application of 120 kg N/ha resulted in longer vine length (40 cm - 170 cm), number of leaves/plant (7-22/plant) and leaf area (107 cm2 - 220 cm2) of cucumber. Maize plants in MD1 in both years produced (p<0.05) highest number of leaves/plant (8 and 14/plant). Interaction of maize density (MD1)) by 120 kg N/ha on actual yield loss which gave significant positive value (0.23) and LER of 2.2 is a yield advantage in the intercrop. Therefore, using MD1 and 120 kg N/ha was optimal for cucumber/maize mixture in this study.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    GROWTH AND FRUIT YIELD OFTHREE PEPPER (Capsicum spp.) SPECIES AS INFLUENCED BY WATER STRESS AT DIFFERENT GROWTH STAGE
    (2025-09-21) 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.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    GENOTYPIC PERFORMANCE OF MULTIPLE STRESS TOLERANT QUALITY PROTEIN MAIZE (Zea mays L.) HYBRIDS FOR ADAPTATION TO DERIVED SAVANNA AGRO-ENVIRONMENTS OF OGUN STATE.
    (2025-06-14) ABIKOYE, MERCY MAYOWA
    ABSTRACT Maize (Zea mays L.) is a major food crop in sub-Saharan Africa, providing a significant portion of dietary calories and nutrients. However, conventional maize lacks essential amino acids like lysine and tryptophan, contributing to malnutrition, particularly in derived savanna. Quality Protein Maize (QPM) addresses this issue by containing nearly twice the amount of these essential amino acids compared to regular maize. This study evaluated the genotypic performance of multiple stress tolerant quality protein maize hybrids for adaptaion to derived savanna agro-environments of Ogun state, with the aim of identifying high-yielding, stable genotypes. The research was carried out at Teaching and Research Farm, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (7°13′N 3°26′E) in August 2023 to November 2023 (early season) and June 2023 to September 2024 (late season). Also at the Teaching and Research Farm of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ayetoro Campus (7°15'N 3°3'E) in August 2023 to November 2023 (early season). Thirty-three extra-early QPM hybrids, along with two local checks, were evaluated on the field using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Data were collected on nine agronomic traits, visual disease syndrome rating to ear rot, leaf blight, maize streak, and cercospora leaf spot were observed on a scale of 1-5. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance, heritability estimates and GGE biplot analysis to evaluate genotypic performance and stability across the three environments. Significant genotypic variability among the hybrids for grain yield, days to tasseling, and disease tolerance were observed. Hybrids such as QH60, QH19, and QH21 demonstrated superior performance in specific environments, with grain yields of 1,745.10 kg/ha, 3,465.10 kg/ha, 3372.55 kg/ha, respectively. Almost all the hybrids exhibited minimal diseases syndrome rating for ear rot, maize streak, and leaf blight. However heritability estimate for grain yield and stem lodging was low with 9.58% and 2.90% respectively, while ear aspect showed high heritability (123.39%). Genetic gain for grain yield was moderate (8.47%). However, ear aspect and 100-seed weight exhibited higher genetic gains of 81.42% and19.12% respectively.GGE biplot analysis revealed that the three environments belonged to two mega environments with Ayetoro 2023 being the most representative and stable. Abeokuta 2024 was the most discriminative environment while Ayetoro 2023 was the least discriminative, with more uniform genotypic performance. Hybrids QH34, QH18, QH30 and LOC2, were consistent in performance across environments. Hybrid QH38 was the highest-yielding (3,389.02 kg/ha) and most stable hybrid across environments. Hybrid QH29, QH61 and LOC1 had poor grain yield across the three environments. Hybrid LOC1, QH58, and QH11 were less responsive with poor inconsistent performance across the environments. In conclusion, this study identified QPM hybrids with high yield potential, stability, and tolerance to multiple stresses, making them suitable for cultivation in the savanna agro-ecologies of Ogun state. These integration of stable, high-performing QPM hybrids into breeding programs is recommended to mitigate the effects of climate change and improve maize productivity in stress-prone environments.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    Influence of Calcium and potassium nitrates on the Growth, Yield and Some Nutritional Quality Traits of Pepper Species (Capsicum spp Linn.)
    (2025-06-12) Akinbule, Abiodun Solomon
    ABSTRACT Calcium and potassium are important nutrient elements, affecting the growth, fruit yield and quality of peppers. Most of the previous studies on the influence of calcium nitrate [Ca(NO3)2] and potassium nitrate (KNO3) were mostly done in greenhouses, hence, the need for field evaluation. This study evaluated the influence of foliar Ca(NO3)2 and KNO3 applications on growth, yield, and nutritive quality of three pepper species (Capsicum annuum, C. chinense and C. frutescens) at the Directorate of University Farms, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (Latitude 7° 25’ N, Longitude 3° 25’ E). Field experiments were conducted in the late seasons of 2021 and 2024, and early seasons of 2023 and 2024, using Randomized Complete Block Design with four treatments; Ca(NO3)2, KNO3, alternating Ca(NO3)2 with KNO3, and no fertilizer application, replicated 3 times. Laboratory experiments were done using 4 (fertilizer treatments) × 3 (pepper species) factorial in Completely Randomized Design, replicated 3 times. Data on vegetative, reproductive, and nutritive variables were analyzed for their variance, with significant treatment means separated by Least Significant Difference (p<0.05). Pearson's correlation, Principal Components Analysis (PCA), and k-means clustering assessed nutritive variables associations, nutrient patterns, and species clusters, respectively. Foliar fertilizer applications significantly influenced pepper growth, fruit yields, and nutritive variables in the both seasons and years (p<0.05). Ca(NO3)2 and KNO3 produced taller plants (C. annuum: 22.7-22.8%; C. frutescens: 12.4-25.3%) and increased number of leaves/plant [C. annuum: 133% with Ca(NO3)2; C. chinense: 135% with KNO3] across seasons and years, compared to control. Number of fruits of C. annuum was similar with Ca(NO3)2, alternated nitrates and control, but lower with KNO3 in late season 2021, while it increased with Ca(NO3)2 in C. chinense and C. frutescens. Fruit yield was significantly enhanced by Ca(NO3)2 in C. annuum(68.9%) and C. chinense (221%), and by alternating Ca(NO3)2 with KNO3 in C. frutescens (91.0%), compared with control. Ca(NO3)2 had the highest nitrogen (C. annuum: 2353.26 mg/g), while KNO3 often resulted in higher phosphorus with (C. annuum: 272 mg/g) and potassium levels in different species and seasons. Calcium content was highest with KNO3 in C. annuum (109.84 mg/g) and alternating Ca(NO3)2 with KNO3 in C. chinense (106.30 mg/g) and C. frutescens (101.02 mg/g). Fruits of C. frutescens exhibited superior nutritive variables in the late season in both years, except in mineral content. Late and early seasons showed 5/6, and 5/2 nutrient pattern/pepper clusters, respectively. There were more nutrients associated with fruit yield in the late season compared to early season. In conclusion, optimal yields of C. annuum and C. chinense were achieved with Ca(NO3)2 application in both seasons while for C. frutescens it was achieved by both Ca(NO3)2 and alternating Ca(NO3)2 with KNO3 in the late season, and by KNO3 alone in the early season. For optimal pepper yield in Southwestern Nigeria, Ca(NO3)2 is recommended for C. annuum and C. chinense in both seasons. For C. frutescens, alternating Ca(NO3)2 with KNO3 or Ca(NO3)2 alone is recommended for late season and KNO3 for the early season.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    MANURE SOURCE, SEASON AND TIME OF APPLICATION ON FRUIT YIELD, QUALITY AND NUTRIENT USE EFFICIENCY OF GOLDEN MELON (Cucumis melo L.)
    (2025-09-12) 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
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    AGRO–MORPHOLOGICAL VARIATION AND INTER-CHARACTER RELATIONSHIP AMONG TWENTY ACCESSIONS OF TOMATO (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
    (2025-07-03) OLALEYE, MONSURAT OLAJUMOKE
    ABSTRACT Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a vital crop worldwide, valued for its economic and nutritional importance. Information on genetic contribution and inter-character relationship between fruit yield and agro-morphological traits of twenty accessions of tomatoes is needed for improvement of tomato, hence this study was conducted. The research was carried out at Teaching and Research Farm, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta Ogun state (07° 20’N, 03° 23’°E) in April 2024 to July 2024 (early season) and July 2024 to November 2024 (late season). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) in three replicates. Data were collected on number of days to emergence, number of days to flowering, number of days to maturity, number of fruits, stem girth (mm), peduncle length (cm), fruit length (cm), fruit width (cm) and fruit weight (g). Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA), significant means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at 5% probability level, Genotypic and Phenotypic variance, Heritability (Broad sense), Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and genotypic, phenotypic and environmental coefficient correlation were evaluated. In early season, accessions were significantly different from one another for days to maturity and number of fruits at (P≤0.01). In late season, accessions were significantly different from one another for days to flowering and days to maturity (at P≤0.01). Mean separation showed that accessions NHTO 0347 and NHTO 0258 in early season and accessions NHTO 0254 and NHTO 0355 in late season had the highest fruit traits. For early season, the phenotypic coefficient variation ranged from 22.44 for days to emergence to 546.37 for fruit weight while genotypic coefficient variation ranged from 9.48 for days to emergence to137.94 for number of fruits. High heritability was recorded for days to emergence, days to flowering, days to maturity, peduncle length, and fruit length. For late season, phenotypic coefficient variation ranged from 7.90 for days to maturity to 194.46 for fruit length while genotypic coefficient variation ranged from 7.47 for days to emergence to 166.14 for fruit length. All traits had high heritability in late season. For the principal component analysis (PCA), the eigen values were greater than one in both seasons and cumulatively accounted for 72.98% and 64.22% of the total variation for early and late seasons, respectively. Fruit weight was the highest contributor in both seasons for first principal component. There were significant positive genotypic and phenotypic correlation between days to maturity and days to emergence, days to maturity and days to flowering, number of fruits and stem girth, fruit weight and fruit width. In conclusion, significant genetic variation exists among the tomato accessions evaluated for days to flowering, days to maturity and number of fruits. The positive significant correlation between two traits would facilitate selection and simultaneous improvement, particularly for economically important traits. Accessions NHTO 0347 and NHTO 0258 in early season and accessions NHTO 0254 and NHTO 0355 in late season could be used as parents in breeding programme.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    HAUSA WOMEN’S HEALTH PATTERN AND BARRIERS TO HEALTH CARE UTILIZATION IN SABO AREA OF ABEOKUTA
    (2025-07-04) OYEWOLE, OLAMIDE TOSIN
    ABSTRACT Maternal mortality remains unacceptably high in Nigeria with existing maternal health interventions, therefore this study often focussed generalized on health care and failed to consider the unique cultural and socio-economic barriers that influence Hausa women's healthcare decisions. This research work adopted a descriptive research design, which involves the collection of data from 150 respondents, using a well-structured and standardized questionnaire, A multi-stage sampling method was used to select the respondents. The data collected was analyzed using a descriptive statistical tool and Pearson Product Moment Correlation to test the hypotheses stated in the research. The results of the study indicated that in terms of age distribution, majority 33 (22%) were between 31-35years' on marital status 97 (64.7%) were married, majority 54 (36%) have no formal education. Findings indicated a selective pattern of health among the respondents with sleep problems (x̄= 2.64) ranked 1st, Somatic (x̄=2.41) ranked 2nd and depressed mood (x̄=2.25) ranked 3rd respectively. Findings also assessed the barriers to healthcare utilization, respondents identified a wide range of challenges, categorized into individual/family related barriers (x̄=2.03), health care sector- related barriers (x̄=1.94) and personal related barriers (x̄=1.91). In conclusion, the study established that age, health patterns and perceived barriers to health utilization are interrelated. Overall, the study highlights the critical need to address not just structural deficiencies but also socio-cultural and personal factors to improve healthcare access and health outcomes of the respondents. Therefore, targeted interventions should be designed for vulnerable subgroups, such as older adults and those with low educational attainment, focusing on preventive care, mental health support and guidance on navigating healthcare services effectively.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    EFFECT OF HARVESTING STAGES AND HYDRO DORMANCY BREAKING TREATMENT ON SEED PHYSIOLOGICAL ATTRIBUTES OF Solanum macrocarpon (EGGPLANT)
    (2025-03-05) RAHEEM Sekinat Opeyemi
    ABSTRACT Seed germination is a critical phase in plant life cycle which is affected by dormancy and environmental factors. This study was carried out at Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta to investigate the effects of green yellowish and brown harvesting stages on the field and hydro-priming treatments on seed physiological attributes in the laboratory of six African eggplant genotypes (Solanum macrocarpon L.) between April and August 2021. A factorial experiment of 6×2×3×7; genotypes, harvesting stage, hydro-priming methods and levels of hydro-priming methods respectively. The field experiment was set up in a randomized complete block design with three replications per plot size of 20 m by 16 m with a bed size of 2 m by 3 m for each genotypes at a spacing of 50 cm by 50 cm for inter-row and intra-row respectively, for double row planting. Completely randomized design was used in the laboratory experiment in three replicates. Seedlots of the six genotypes were subjected to hydro-priming treatments; water at room temperature, hot water and control (without water). This was achieved by putting 1000 seeds of each treatment combinations inside a cloth bag and then soaked in water at room temperature for five soaking durations (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 hours). The treated seeds were left to dry under room temperature for seven days. For hot water treatment, 1000 clean seeds were put in a cloth bag and soaked in hot water at 100 0C for ten seconds and later left to cool in water at room temperature and then left to dry for 7 days under room temperature. fruit weight, fruit length and diameter, number of seed per pod data were collected on the field while in the laboratory, data collected were; seed germination, seedling height, seedling vigour index, days to 50% germination. Data collected were subjected to combined analysis of variance and significant treatment means separated at 5% probability level using Tukey’s HSD test. Correlation coefficient analysis among seed quality traits across hydro-priming techniques was carried out. Significant differences (p≤ 0.05) were observed among the six genotypes of S. macrocarpon, hydro-priming treatments and between the two harvest stages. Seed germination percentage was greater when fruits were harvested at the brown dry stage than at less mature stage (green yellowish stage). Seed dormancy of Solanum macrocarpon can be broken by exposing the harvested matured seeds to water at room temperature for 10 hours. Seeds of fruits harvested at green yellowish fruit stage were of very poor quality. Fruits of genotypes NGBO 0772, NGBO 0266 and NGBO 7715 harvested at brown fruits colour stage exposed to water at room temperature for 10 hours retained maximum seed germination with good attributing traits. The study indicated that seed quality of S. macrocarpon genotypes increases with harvest maturity stage and increases in germination and vigour parameters. Fruits of genotypes (NGBO 0772, NGBO 0266 and NGBO 7715) harvested at brown fruit colour stage exposed to water at room temperature for 10 hours are recommended to farmers and seed companies.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    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.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    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.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    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.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    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.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    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.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    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