Effect of plant density and manure on the yield and yield components of the common onion (Allium cepa L.) var. Nsukka red

Abstract

Different plant population densities and manure rates on the yield and yield components of short-day onion was investigated using a 4x4 factorial experiment that was laid out in three randomized complete block design. Results showed significant differences in the number of leaves produced per plant, leaf area (cm²), bulb diameter and bulb yield. A mean of 10 leaves/plant was produced when plants were spaced at 30.5cm x 15.2cm (215,054 plants/ha). The application of manure at 22.40 ton/ha gave mean of 11 leaves/plant. Leaf area was affected more by manuring at 22.40 tons/ha (65.26cm²) than by plant population density. Bulb diameter was greatest (8.18cm) at the highest manure application of 22.40 ton/ha than at the lowest population density of 215,000 with a mean bulb diameter of 7.18cm. Total bulb yield (9.55 ton/ha) was influenced more by manure application at 22.40 ton/ha than by plant density. The implication of the findings is highlighted for successful onion production.

Nigerian Journal of Horticultural Science Vol. 9 2005: 43-48