Finite modelling of growth and yield of okra using different tillage systems in Obubra, Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract:  Field experiment was conducted at the teaching and research farm of Cross River University of Technology, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, Obubra Campus. The study was aimed at finite modelling of growth and yield of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) using different tillage systems. Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used in the field, 1,024m² with three treatments and three replicates. These treatments were Conventional, Conservative and Zero tillage. Each treatment had three replicates of size 8m x 8m, separated from each other by 2m for manoeuvring of the tractor. Planting of okra and other cultural practices were carried out. Soil samples were collected for analysis in the laboratory. Data on growth parameters and yield of okra were collected and analysed using SPSS. Correlation, regression and ANOVA analysis were done. Results obtained showed negative correlation between growth parameters, okra yield and soil bulk density. While soil porosity had positive correlation with growth parameters and okra yield. Okra yield was higher in conventional and conservative tillage than in zero tillage. Finite modelled equation with coefficient of linearity, (R²) of 0.934 on the yield of okra using different tillage systems was generated from the regression analysis, revealing predicted output closely equal to the observed yield of okra. Yield of okra can be predicted during cultivation provided soil physical properties and growth parameters of okra are known. It is recommended that conventional and conservative tillage systems should be practiced for improvement in the production of okra fruits in Obubra soil.

Abstract:  Field experiment was conducted at the teaching and research farm of Cross River University of Technology, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, Obubra Campus. The study was aimed at finite modelling of growth and yield of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) using different tillage systems. Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used in the field, 1,024m² with three treatments and three replicates. These treatments were Conventional, Conservative and Zero tillage. Each treatment had three replicates of size 8m x 8m, separated from each other by 2m for manoeuvring of the tractor. Planting of okra and other cultural practices were carried out. Soil samples were collected for analysis in the laboratory. Data on growth parameters and yield of okra were collected and analysed using SPSS. Correlation, regression and ANOVA analysis were done. Results obtained showed negative correlation between growth parameters, okra yield and soil bulk density. While soil porosity had positive correlation with growth parameters and okra yield. Okra yield was higher in conventional and conservative tillage than in zero tillage. Finite modelled equation with coefficient of linearity, (R²) of 0.934 on the yield of okra using different tillage systems was generated from the regression analysis, revealing predicted output closely equal to the observed yield of okra. Yield of okra can be predicted during cultivation provided soil physical properties and growth parameters of okra are known. It is recommended that conventional and conservative tillage systems should be practiced for improvement in the production of okra fruits in Obubra soil.