Effects of Fertilization and Irrigation on Establishment and Growth of Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) in Sokoto, Nigeria

Aims: To determine the effects of fertilization and irrigation on establishment and growth of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) in Sokoto, Nigeria and its adaptability.
Study Design: A factorial experiment laid down in split – plot design.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out during 2008/2009 and 2009/2010 dry seasons in upland and lowland areas in Sokoto, Nigeria.
Methodology: The effects of nitrogen fertilizer, manure and irrigation interval on percentage plant establishment, plant height, number of leaves and stem diameter of P. virgatum were assessed. Four levels of nitrogen (0, 25, 50 and 75 kg N ha-1), three rates of manure (0, 5 and 10 t ha-1) and three irrigation regimes (w2, w4 and w6).
Results: Results indicate that there is no significant (P = 0.05) increase in percentage plant establishment, plant height, number of leaves and stem diameter by raising nitrogen rate from 50 to 75 kg N ha-1, manure rate from 5 – 10 t ha-1 or irrigation intervals from w2 to w4 days. The findings of the study revealed that a combination of 50 kg N ha-1, with 5 t ha-1 of manure and w2 irrigation interval enhanced percentage plant establishment, plant height, number of leaves and stem diameter.
Conclusion: The combination of treatments 50 kg Nha-1, 5 t ha-1 of manure and w2 irrigation interval were recommended for switchgrass establishment and growth in Sokoto geo-ecological zone of Nigeria.