Profitability of Selected Weed Control Methods in Maize (Zea mays L. Moench) Production at Igbariam in Three Successive Months

Abstract

This experiment was conducted in 2021 and 2022 cropping season at the Teaching and Research farm Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Anambra State. The aim was to determine the effect of selected weed control methods on sole maize production and their economic profitability in Igbariam, Nigeria. It was a 3x4 factorial combination laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The selected cultivars was the main factor (Oka Bende, Oka Abakaliki and Oka Nsukka) while the four weed control methods (weedy check, hoe weeding, pre-emergence and post emergence) represented the sub-factor. Data was collected on germination percentage (5DAS and 8DAS), growth parameter (Plant height, stem girth and leaf area) and economic assessment. Data collected was subjected to data analysis of variance (ANOVA) and significant mean were separated using Fisher’s Least Significant Difference. The highest number of percentage seed germination was recorded in Oka Nsukka 92.2% at 5DAS and Oka Bende 99.0% at 8DAS. Application of pre-emergence herbicide gave the plant height (249.0 cm), leaf area and plant girth was highest in Oka Bende. Pre-emergence herbicide indicated to have more superior weed control effect and more profitable than the other weed control methods used in the study.