PERFORMANCE OF COTTON/MAIZE MIXTURE AS INFLUENCED BY NITROGEN AND PLANTING PATTERN AT SAMARU NIGERIA

Abstract

Two field trials were carried out during 2017 and 2018 wet seasons at the Institute for Agricultural Research, Ahmadu Bello University Research farm to investigate the effect of different levels of nitrogen and planting pattern on the performance of cotton/maize mixtures. The treatment consisted of four levels of nitrogen (0, 60, 90 and 120 kg/ha) and four planting patterns (sole crop, 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1) cotton/maize mixtures arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Each plot comprised of four ridges of 5 m long given a gross plot of 15 m².  SAMCOT 9 and SAMMAZ 51 where the two maize varieties planted. All the required agronomic practices were duly observed. Data were measured on plant height, number of days to 50% tasseling/flowering and grain yield. Results showed that each increase in nitrogen levels from the control to the highest rate of 120 kg N/ha led to a significant increase in plant height and grain yield in all the seasons while decreased days to 50% tasseling/flowering. Cotton/Maize mixture at 1: 1 significantly gave taller plants, took longer days to attend 50% tasseling/flowering and higher grain yield while 3:1 cotton/maize mixtures gave taller plants, took longer days to 50% tasseling/flowering and highest ball yield. For good performance of cotton/maize mixture in the study area, farmers are advised to apply 120 kg N ha^-1, using cotton/maize mixtures at 3:1 for good cotton ball yield and 1:1 cotton/maize respectively for better maize yield.