Effect of planting methods and soil moisture on cassava performance in the semi-arid Sudan savanna belt of Nigeria

摘要

Climatic and edaphic factors are important determinants of the growth and yield potential of an ecological environment. Among other cultural practices, planting methods play a very vital role in the performance of a crop. The effects of planting methods and soil moisture on cassava (Manihot esculenta) performance in the Sudan savanna region of Nigeria were assessed under field conditions at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Minjibir, Kano State. SIx planting methods in monoculture were evaluated in two crop seasons. These were horizonal planting on furrow orridge, inclined planting on flat or ridge, and vertical planting on flat or ridge. Two genotypes were compared: TMS91934, an improved IITA clone; and Dakata Uwariya, a land race. Dakata Uwariya was significantly better (P<0.05) than TMS91934 in plant height and root dry matter content; TMS91934 was better in leaf formation and leaf retention. Ridge-based methods positively influenced root yield production and leaf formation, while flat or furrow methods were advantageous in number or plants at harvest. Horizontal and inclined planting were the best methods in general. Results showed that cassava performance in the Sudan savanna of Nigeria was influenced by genotype, planting methods and soil moisture. Sustainable development of cassava in the semi-arid agroccology essentially depends on the use of clones with good drought adaptation, combined with efficient cultural practices for good growth and yield.