Effects of tillage methods and poultry manure rates on the production of Carrot (Daucus carota L) in Nsukka, Southeast Nigeria

Abstract

Carrot (Daucus carota L.) has historically been classified as a northern crop because it predominantly grows in the northern regions of Nigeria. Transportation of harvested roots to the south has consequently resulted to decay, shrinkage, loss of roots due to high temperature and long distant travels, high cost of produce etc. The objective was to find out the variety and tillage method that will enhance the production of carrots in Southeast Nigeria and the appropriate poultry manure rates for production. Two Carrot varieties (Touchon mega and Kurado) were evaluated under field experiment and were grown under three poultry manure (PM) rates (0,5,10 t ha -1 ) and two tillage methods (Ridge and Bed) to assess their effects on the growth and yield of carrot roots. Roots were harvested at the 90th day after planting and data were collected on seedling emergence, root weight, leaf weight, whole plant biomass, percentage marketable yield, and total marketable yield. The result showed that poultry manure significantly (p<0.05) enhanced higher yields. The ridge tillage method gave a higher marketable yield than the Bed type. Kurado variety had the highest percent marketable yield though there were no significant (p>0.05) differences between the two varieties. The tillage method and poultry manure influenced the growth and yield of carrot roots suggesting that the appropriate tillage method and poultry manure rate will enhance production in the environment. From the results of the experiment, it could be concluded that for the production of carrots in the environment Kurado variety is recommended due to its high yielding capacity while Ridge tillage method is recommended for farmers in the area due to its efficient use and ability to support root penetration; 10 t ha -1 manure rate was found to be most economical manure rate.