Yield response of soybeans to levels of nitrogen and potassium fertilizer in the humid tropics

Abstract

A field trail was conducted at the University of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm in a high rainfall area of South eastern Nigeria to assess the yield response soybeans [ Glycine max (L.) Merrill ] to different levels of nitrogen and potassium fertilizers. The results showed that the number of pods/ plant, threshing percentage and gain yield (t/ha) were significantly influenced by nitrogen fertilizer application. Nitrogen applied at the rate of 45kg N/ha was more consistent in influencing soybean yield. Potassium on the other hand, significantly influenced number of branches/plant, number of pods per plant, 100 seed weight and grain yield. Beneficial range of doses of application of potassium was found to be 30 75kg/ha. Moreso, response of soybean to nitrogen was more at higher doses of potassium.


Key Words: Yield Components, Glycine max, Levels of Fertilization, Threshing Percentage

[Global Jnl Agric Res Vol.1(2) 2002: 101-110]