Estimation of irrigation water requirement of maize (Zea-mays) plants using Pan-Evapouration method in Maiduguri, N.E Nigeria

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Estimation of irrigation water requirement of maize (Zea-mays) was conducted based on a ten (10) year rainfall data (1986-1995) of Maiduguri, Borno state using pan evaporation method. Climatic parameters including potential evapotranspiration (ET_o), maize crop evapotranspiration (ET_m), effective rainfall (P_e), and maize crop irrigation water requirement (IWR_m) were estimated using prescribed procedures. The result showed that the P_e for Maiduguri was lowest in June (1.09mm/day) and highest in August (3.91mm/day). Both ET_o(8.70mm/day) and ET_m(4.35mm/day) recorded highest estimates in June and declined sharply in the months of August and October, respectively. The IWR_m for Maiduguri was estimated at 3.26, 0.11, 0.05, 1.81 and 1.24mm per day for the months of June, July, August, September and October respectively, implying that there exists the need for soil moisture supplementation, especially in the months of September and October based on the inadequate rainfall inputs observed.

Key words: Irrigation water estimation, water requirement, Maize plant, Pan-evaporation, Maiduguri and Nigeria