Productivity of Millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L) R. BR.) as Influenced by Intra-row Spacing, Low Levels of Combined Organic and In-organic Fertilizers and Variety in Sokoto, Sudan Savannah, Nigeria

Abstract

Pearl millet [(Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.], is an important dietary food. Under and over plant population results to poor growth and Development. Farmers in Nigeria cultivates local varieties resulting to low yield. Inorganic fertilizers are costly and also results to soil pollution. Millet productions can be enhanced through appropriate cultural practices. Field experiment was conducted at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching and Research Dry land Farm, Sokoto, during the 2022 Rainy season to determine effect of intra-row spacing, appropriate combination of organic and inorganic fertilize and variety for optimum yield of millet. The treatments comprises factorial combination of three intra-row spacings (40,50 and 50 cm), three fertilizer treatments: the control, 25 kg P205 and 25 kg N ha-1, FYM at 5 t ha-1 , 12.5 kg P205 plus 12.5 kg N, plus FYM at 2.5 t ha-1 and two verities (Super SOSSAT and Zango millet local variety), laid out in split plot design, Intra-row spacing and fertilizer was allocated to the main plot, varieties to sub plots. Data collected on growth and yield parameters was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results indicated that 40 cm intra-row spacing produced higher Leaf Area Index (LAI), Panicle length (cm) and total biomass, while 25 kg P205 and 25 kg N ha-1, FYM at 5 t ha-1 , 12.5 kg P205 plus 12.5 kg N produced taller plants, higher LAI, panicle weight, 1000 grain weight, grain yield, and total biomass. Super SOSSAT produced higher LAI, Panicle length (cm), panicle weight, 1000 grain weight, grain yield and total biomass, while Zango millet variety produced taller plant and longer panicle length. 40cm intra-row spacing, application of combined organic and inorganic fertilizer at the rate of 25 kg N, P and 5 tonne-1 FYM and Super Sossat was better for optimum yield.