Response of Hausa Potato (Solesnostemon rotundifolius Poir) to Different NPK 15:15:15 Fertilizer Rates in Nrcri, Umudike,Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the response of Hausa potato (Solesnostemon rotundifolius Poir) to different rates of NPK 15:15:15 fertilizer. The work was carried out during 2005 and 2006 cropping seasons. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with three replications. Plant spacing of 100cm x 50cm was used. Four different rates (0,200,400 and 600 kgha^-1) of NPK 15:15:15 fertilizer were used in the study. Total harvest was calculated from each unit plot and converted to per hectare yield. The highest average yield (3.81t/ha) was obtained at 200kgha^-1 fertilizer rate. This was followed by 0kgha^-1 (3.54t/ha).Average yield (3.23t/ha) was recorded at 400kgha-1fertilizer rate. The lowest average yield (2.56t/ha) was recorded at 600kgha-1fertilizer rate. Gross return (N230,100.00/ha) benefit cost ratio (1.40) implies that it is profitable to cultivate Hausa potato in Umudike with the application of NPK 15:15:15 fertilizer at the rate of 200kgha^-1.

Keywords: Hausa potato, NPK fertilizer, Gross return, Benefit cost ratioclas

Journal of Agriculture and Social Research (JASR) Vol. 11, No. 1, 2011