Growth performance of popcorn as influenced by nitrogen fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing at Badeggi, Nigeria

Abstract

Two field trials were conducted in 2016 and 2017 rainy season in Research Farm of National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services, Ahmadu Bello University, (NAERLS/ABU), North Central Zone, Badeggi , Niger State, Nigeria (90 45 N, 70 31 E) to test the effect of Nitrogen Fertilizer rate and Intra- row spacing on Growth and Development of popcorn (Zea mays Averta) var Samm 11.The treatment were made up of three Intra-row spacing (20, 25 and 30 cm) and four nitrogen fertilizer rates (0 kg N/ha, 60 kg N/ha, 120 kg N/ha, 180 kg N/ha).Increase in nitrogen rate significantly increased plant height at 8 and 12 weeks after sowing (WAS) in 2016 and 2017 rainy seasons respectively. The highest rate of 180 kg N/ha produced taller plants than lower rate of 60 kg N/ha. Total Dry Matter (TDM) was significantly affected by N fertilizer only at 12 WAS in 2016 and all stages in 2017. Leaf Area Index (LAI) was significantly affected by nitrogen application throughout the seasons except at 4 WAS in 2016 season. Intra-row spacing had no significant effect on plant height except at 8 WAS in 20 17 rainy season. TDM was significantly affected by intra- row spacing only at 12 WAS in 2016 and at all stages in 2017 rainy season where spacing at 30 cm produced highest TDM plant.