Response of garden cress (Lepidium sativum L.) to sowing methods, irrigation interval and fertilizer rates in Northern Guinea Savannah of Nigeria

Abstract

Field trials were conducted in 2015 and 2016 at Samaru College of Agriculture, Division of Agricultural Colleges, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria to determine the most appropriate NPK fertilizer rates, sowing method and irrigation interval for better growth and yield of garden cress in Northern Guinea Savannah. The treatments consisted of three factors; NPK fertilizer rates (NPK 0: 0: 0 kg ha^-1, NPK 30: 30: 30 kg ha^-1 and NPK 60: 60: 60 kg ha^-1), sowing methods (broadcasting and drilling) and irrigation intervals (at 3 and 5 days). The treatments were laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) replicated three times. The results obtained showed that sowing by drilling method and application of NPK fertilizer at the rate of 60: 60: 60 kg ha^-1 significantly led to the production of more number of leaves, number of branches, tallest plants and vegetable yield, whereas, the use of irrigation water at the interval of 3 days significantly led to the production of more vegetable yield in both growing seasons. Therefore, it can be concluded that, for a better performance and yield, Garden cress should be drilled, irrigated at 3 days interval and supplied with NPK at the rate of 60:60:60 kg ha^-1.