Growth and development response of maize (Zea mays L.) In crude oil pollution treatment

Abstract

Growth and development response of Zea mays were investigated at the University of Port Harcourt botanical garden. Crude oil pollution effects of direct spray on foliage or spill on soil on the growth changes and chlorophyll content of Z. mays were examined, alongside a control. There were
significant (p = 0.05) reductions in chlorophyll content in treatments with crude oil sprayed on foliage or spilled on the soil in comparison with the control. Visual symptoms of crude oil contamination effects on Z. mays showed gross damage on the growth and development of the crop. This study shows that crude oil pollution has adverse effects on growth and development of Z. mays.