The performance of maize (Zea mays) in crude oil treatment was investigated at the University of Port Harcourt botanical garden. Germination and growth responses of Z. mays were examined using various crude oil pollution treatments. There was no significant difference in the germination and development of Z. mays subjected to oiling at 1-3% compared to those of the control (0%), while 4-5% oiling showed a significant difference at P=0.05. Percentage germination decreased with increase in concentration of crude oil equilibrated with water. Germination rate decreased significantly with increased time of pre-soaking in crude oil. Crude oil spilled soil immediately after planting, increased the length of lag phase preceding germination from 48 hours to 96 hours and decreased percentage germination from 100% in the control to 58% in crude oil contaminated soil. This study shows that crude oil pollution has adverse effects on germination and development of Z. mays.

The effects of salt (CaCl 2 ) and staking on the proximate composition of fruits of tomato (Roma VF) were studied at the Department of Botany Experimental garden, University of Uyo, Nigeria. Calcium chloride salt levels of 0, 50, 100, 150 and 200g per 4Kg of loamy sandy soil were used, with and without staking. The moisture, dry matter, ash, crude fat, crude protein, carbohydrate and crude fibre contents in treatment with calcium chloride/ staking were significantly (P<0.05) higher than those of calcium chloride without staking in Roma VF. CaCl 2 and staking treatment increased the crude protein content of the crop. 100g level of CaCl 2 salt was the optimum level for enhanced proximate composition of the crop. Improved processing qualities of tomato fruit (Roma VF) can be enhanced through regulated salt and staking treatment.