Rate determination of Nitrogen and Phosphorous Fertilizer for Better Production of Tef

Abstract

An experiment was conducted at Gondar Zuria woreda, Abakaloye and Dinzaz villages, Gumara-Maksegnit watershed with the objective of determining biologically economically optimum level of N and P rates for better yield of tef. The experiment was done on two groups of homogeneous sites i.e. vertisols (heavy soil) and cambisols of the area. To investigate nitrogen and phosphorus rates on yield and yield components of tef. Four levels of nitrogen (0, 46, 69 and 92 kg N ha-1)and Four levels of phosphorus fertilizer (0, 46, 69 and 92 kg ha-1)were combined in 4*4 factorial arrangement in randomized complete block design with three replications. Data collected on growth and yield parameters were analyzed using SAS computer software. Application of 46kg/ha P2O5 and 46kg/ha N significantly increased grain yield and biomass yield. The results showed that there was statistically significant difference among treatments in both biomass and grain yield (p < 0.05). The treatment with better grain yield was found economically optimal. Therefore, 46kg/ha P2O5 and 46kg/ha N are recommended to tef production. It can be concluded nitrogen (46kg ha-1) and phosphorus (46kg ha-1) can be used for optimum production of tef variety Quncho (DZ-cr-387-RILI in the study area.