Effect of Siam Weed Mulch on Soil Properties and Performance of yam in Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigates effectiveness of mulch derived from residues of Siam Weed for Yam production. ‘Soil physical and chemical properties, growth and yield of white yam (Dioscorea rotundata) given by 0.5,10,15 and 20 t/ha. Much rates were compared at Efon-Alaaye and Orin-Ekiti in Southwest Nigeria. Mulch at 5,10,15 and 20t/ha increased soil moisture content, reduced soil bulk density and temperature and increased soil pH, organic matter, N,P,K Ca and Mg contents. Values of soil organic matter, N, P, and K increased with amount of mulch. Mulch increased number of leaves, tuber length weight and establishment percentage of yam. The 10t/ha mulch gave optimum mean tuber yield. The increase in tuber yield given by 10t/ha performance of yam was related to soil bulk density and moisture content.

Nigerian Journal of Soil Science Vol. 17 2007: pp. 120-125