Influence of Nitrogen Levels and Planting Architecture on Grain Amaranth in Kenya
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Date
2018
Authors
Gweyi-Onyango, Joseph P
Korir, Nicholas K
Ngetich, Alice
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
London Journals Press
Abstract
Due to the stated unique seed composition, grain amaranth has certainly a potential to become a more
considerable non-wheat material in composite flours used for fortified food production. In Kenya, the crop
is grown in small plots and has not been fully utilized. Because of the many advantages it has there is need
to improve on its production and adoption among the farmers. To achieve these there should be proper
recommendations on the best agronomic practices for the crop. The study was carried out at Kenyatta
University Farm, Main Campus during short and long rains cropping seasons of 2015 and 2016. It was laid
out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with two arrangements (Conventional and Diagonal
Offset) and three N rates (0 Kg/ha, 50 Kg/ha and 100 Kg/ha) and replicated thrice. Data collected were
subjected to Analysis of Variance using SAS computer software and Fischer’s Protected LSD test was used
to separate treatment means at 95% confidence level. The root weight increased with increasing nitrogen
rate application with those under the 50 kg/ha rate having the highest on the diagonal offset arrangement.
The root length was significantly influenced by application of nitrogen with the 50 kg/ha N showing the
longest roots(22 cm) with no application having the shortest(15 cm) from week 5 after planting through to
week 8. The highest leaf weight (63.4 g) was exhibited in the highest nitrogen rate during the first season
while the lowest(23 g) was on the control. The grain yield per plant was highest(52g) under the diagonal
offset planting architecture on the two highest rates of nitrogen fertilizer for both seasons. It is therefore
recommended that the diagonal offset planting arrangement is suitable for grain amaranth at a rate of 50
kg/ha N
Description
Article
Keywords
grain amaranth, production, diagonal offset, architecture, adoption
Citation
Ng, A. (2018). Influence of Nitrogen Levels and Planting Architecture on Grain Amaranth in Kenya. London Journal of Research in Science: Natural and Formal.