Effect of Primary, Secondary and Micro Nutrients on Maize Yield in the Wenchi Municipality, Ghana

Abstract

One of the major constraints related to maize (Zea mays L.) productivity is low soil fertility related mainly to continuous cropping without replenishment of depleted nutrients. In view of this, this study sought to assess the effect of different combinations of primary and secondary nutrients on the yield of maize in the Wenchi Municipality in the Brong-Ahafo Region. Five treatments - Control (T1), NPK (T2), NPK + S + Mg + Ca+ B + Cu + Mo+ Zn (T3), Manure (T4) and T3 + Manure (T5) - were tested in a field experiment in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replicates. The test crop was Lake 601 maize variety. Data for the research was collected on total number of plants, stalk weight, hurst weight, cob weight, grain weight Nutrient Use Efficiency and Economic Viability. The data was analysed with analysis of variance (ANOVA) on all measured parameters and the results were presented in graphs. From the results gathered, it was realized that the application of NPK + Sec_MN had a more positive impact on dry shoot weight and grain weight. The results obtained from the field experiment also indicated that it was more efficient to combine both NPK and secondary nutrients in maize production compared to applying the other treatments assessed in the study; such that, the combined effect gave more yield and subsequently generated more money (income). Based on the results obtained in the research, it was recommended that; much attention should be given to T3 (NPK + Sec_MN). Possibly, different doses of this treatment should be further tested to know the actual extent at which the secondary nutrients and the NPK can be combined to give the maximum yield. Similar research should also be staged at a different location to know whether similar results would be obtained.