Validation of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Fertilizers Application Rates for Maize (Zea mays L.) in Yeki District, Southwest of Ethiopia

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.,) is an important smallholder crop grown in Ethiopia. Its yields are low because of a decline in soil fertility, insufficient use of fertilizers, and blanket use of fertilizer. However, there is no Nitrogen and Phosphorus fertilizer recommendation for Maize in Yeki District. A three-year field experiment was conducted to verify the effects of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer rates for maize. The experiment consisted of three treatments; 92 kg N ha-1 + 69 kg P2O5 ha-1, 64 Kg N ha-1 + 46 kg P2O5 ha-1and no fertilizer (control) laid out using a randomized complete block design with four replications. The replication represents the four locations selected for the test. The results of the study showed that the application of 92 kg N ha-1+ 69 kg P2O5 ha-1significantly increased the growth parameters and yield of maize when compared to the other treatments. The highest maize grain yield (10052.9 kg ha-1) was obtained from the application of 92 kg N ha-1 with 69 kg P2O5 ha-1. This study further confirms the significant role of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers for maize production. From the result of the study, the application rate of 92 kg N ha-1 + 69 kg P2O5 ha-1 is recommended for increasing maize yield, particularly in the study area, and also it is economically feasible.