Influence of Integrated Nitrogen-Nutrient Sources on Lowland Rice Varieties' Yield and Yield Components in a Derived Savannah Ecology

Abstract

The limited Nitrogen availability in most Nigerian soils is why poor rice yields are observed. The cost of inorganic fertilizers, especially in the post-COVID-19 era, tends to increase. Systems of Rice Intensification (SRI) principles utilize integrated nutrient management systems for growing lowland rice in order to reduce the negative effects of climate change. This study focused on evaluating the effects of six different nutrient source combinations on the development of NERICA (New Rice for Africa) L-34 and ARICA (Advanced Rice Varieties for Africa) 3 in Abeokuta Nigeria, between the years of 2017 and 2019. The treatment arrangements were split-plot, randomized complete block design, and triple replication. The nutrient sources and varieties were allocated a subplot and the main plot. The data pertaining to rice yield and its constituent parts were subjected to a two-way Analysis of Variance. In 2017, NERICA L-34 outperformed ARICA 3 in terms of grain yield. The longest panicle, heaviest panicle, and largest grain yield in 2018 were generated by combining 25 kg N per hectare (inorganic) and 75 kg N per hectare (organic). The most grains per panicle were observed by combining 25 kg N per hectare (inorganic) and 75 kg N per hectare (organic). The study concluded that enhancing the 1000 grain-weight and grain yield of ARICA 3 and NERICA L-34 by combining 25 kg N per hectare (inorganic) and 75 kg N per hectare (organic) is advantageous.