Effect of soil solarization and organic fertilization on the productivity of some Maize (Zea mays L.) Genotypes


Abstract in English

This study was conducted in Abu-Jarash farm at the Faculty of Agriculture, Damascus University during the main season 2013 to evaluate the effect of soil solarization and organic fertilization treatments on the productivity of some maize genotypes (Basel 1, Basel 2, Ghouta 1, Ghouta 82 and Local White). The experiment was laid out according to split-split plot design with three replications. The statistical analysis results clearly indicated to the existence of variability in the response of studied maize genotypes to soil solarization and organic fertilization treatments. The genotype Ghouta 82 surpassed in the traits of plant height, leaf area index, 100-kernel weight and grain yield (150.25 cm, 2.84, 28.10 g and 7.99 ton.ha-1) respectively, as compared to other studied genotypes and was closely followed by the genotype Basel 2 which recorded the highest number of rows per ear (13.83 row/ear). Soil solarization for 45 days before sowing and applying organic manures at the rate of 20 ton.ha-1 encouraged the traits of plant height, leaf area index, number of rows and grains per ear, 100-kernel weight which was reflected on grain yield. Therefore we can grow variety Ghouta 82 or hybrid Basel 2 to get higher yield of maize.

References used

Abu-Gharbieh, W. I. 1997. Pre and post plant soil solarization. International proceeding second conference on soil solarization and integrated management of soil borne pests. 16-21st March, Aleppo, Syria, p. 3
Adeniyan, O. N., A. O. Ojo, O. A. Akinbode and J. A. Adediran. 2011. Comparative study of different organic manures and NPK fertilizer for improvement of soil chemical properties and yield of maize in two different soils. Journal of Soil Science and Environmental Management. 2(1): 9-13
Al-Dollaimy, O. E. M. 2001. Response of corn genotypes to different level of Nitrogen under AL-Anbar Condition. M.Sc. Thesis, College of Agriculture, AL-Anbar University, Iraq

Download