Evaluation of Open-pollinated Maize Varieties for Adaptability and Productivity in Golohajo, Somali Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important cereal crops worldwide, serving as a staple food and a vital source of dietary energy. In Ethiopia's Somali Region, however, maize production remains limited due to several constraints, notably the lack of access to improved varieties and essential production inputs. To address this gap, a field experiment was conducted during the 2023 cropping season at the Fafan Agricultural Research Center, located in Gursum Woreda, Somali Regional State (SRS), Ethiopia. The objective was to evaluate the agronomic performance and yield potential of improved open-pollinated maize varieties under local conditions. Three maize varieties were tested using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Data were collected on phenological traits, growth parameters, and yield components. The experiment was laid out in plots measuring 22.5 m² (5 m × 4.5 m), each containing four rows, with appropriate spacing to ensure optimal plant development. The analysis of variance indicated significant differences (p < 0.05) among the maize varieties for all measured parameters, except for plant height. The variety Afan-qalo exhibited the earliest tasseling (62.33 days), silking (67.33 days), and maturity (122.3 days), while Raare-1 was the latest across these stages. Afan-qalo also outperformed the other varieties in key yield components, including the number of ears per plant (1.333), ear length (30.40 cm), thousand seed weight (306.7 g), grain yield (49.08 Qt/ha), and biomass yield (284.0 Qt/ha). Based on these findings, Afan-qalo is recommended for sustainable maize production in the study area. To further enhance maize productivity in the Somali Region and similar agro-ecological zones, future research should include a broader range of maize varieties and extend across multiple locations and growing seasons.