Effects of Tillage and Fertilizer on Soil Properties and Yield of Sesame Varieties in Makurdi, Nigeria

Field experiments were undertaken during the cropping seasons (August- December) of 2018 and 2019 at the Teaching and Research Farm, Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi-Nigeria. The objective of the study was to determine the effects of tillage and fertilizer on soil properties and yield of sesame varieties with a view to identify appropriate tillage practice (s) and fertilizer rate that will give optimal yield of sesame. Treatments consisted of three varieties of sesame (Jigida, NCRIBEN-01M and NCRIBEN-032), three levels of tillage practices (zero tillage, flat beds and ridges) and four levels of NPK 15:15:15 fertilizer (0, 50,100 and 150 kg ha-1) arranged in a split-split plot and laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Sesame varieties occupied the main plots, tillage practices sub-plots and fertilizer rates sub-sub plots which gave 36 treatments and replicated thrice. Prior to planting, surface (0-15 cm) soil samples were collected from eight points and bulked; post-harvest composite soil samples were also collected on the basis of treatments. All soil samples were analyzed using standard analytical procedures. The crop data generated from the study were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using Genstat Release 10.3 DE after which significant means were separated using Least Significant Difference (LSD) at 5 % level of probability. Results indicated that the ridges produced higher yields followed by flat beds and then zero tillage in both cropping seasons. Sesame yield increased with increase in fertilizer rates up to 150 kg ha-1. The effects of variety on soil properties did not differ significantly however, the improved varieties left lower essential nutrients in soil. Zero tillage retained higher nutrients and organic matter in soil while ridges gave lower values for essential nutrients and organic matter. Fertilizer application at 150 kg ha-1 of NPK 15:15:15 favoured the retention of organic matter in soil as well as other essential nutrient elements. It can be recommended that sesame should be grown on ridges for sustainable production. For conservation/retention of essential nutrients and organic matter in soil, zero tillage is recommended. Application of 150 kg ha-1 of NPK 15:15:15 to sesame fields is hereby recommended for increase in yield and maintenance of soil fertility.