FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE

The proliferation of Urban Agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa is occurring due to the surging population, which has led to a demand for alternative crop cultivation methods. Consequently, there is a necessity to cultivate yams in containers as a means to enhance food security. Hence, a study was carried out to evaluate the effect of different combinations of garden soil and poultry manure potting media on the growth and yield of four cultivars of yam
(Dioscorea spp.). The study was carried out in containers (cement bags) in a field plot in Benin City, Nigeria. The treatments included: (i) garden soil alone (1:0), (ii) one part garden
soil and one part poultry manure (1:1), (iii) two parts garden soil and one part poultry manure (2:1), while four cultivars of yam including white yam (Ada Onitsha and Fakasa), water yam
and yellow yam were used. The experiment was a 3 × 4 factorial laid out as a Completely Randomized Design with three replicates. At nine weeks after planting, data was collected and recorded. At four months after planting harvest was done for only one cultivar (ada onitsha). The data collected was subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to test the significance of the treatment means using Genstat Statistical Package. The results indicated that there were no significant differences observed in the growth characteristics of the different potting media. However, significant cultivar differences were observed in number of vines, leaf area, number of leaves, stem girth, and petiole length. The potting media treatments showed significant differences in tuber length, tuber girth, and tuber yield per bag with 2:1 garden soil and poultry manure producing the highest tuber yield per bag(1.47kg) while (1:1) and (1:0) produced (0.50kg) and (0.47kg) respectively. Therefore, the combination of garden soil and poultry manure with a ratio of 2:1 would be suitable for cultivating yam in containers

The study was carried out to investigate potassium availability in soils of an oil palm lantation invaded with different weed types in Ekasa Village, Ovia North East Local overnment area of Edo State, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected at two different depths (0-15cm and 15-30cm) with three replicates each, at four different weeds-invaded areas overing at least one acre each. The weeds investigated are; Spear grass (SR) (Imperata cylindrica), Guinea grass (GR) (Panicum maximum), White weed or goat weed (WR), Ageratum conyzoides), and Siam weed (Chromolaena odorata) (CR). The results showed that the soil of the plantation is loamy sand which is moderately acidic (mean pH value 4.67). In all the weeds investigated the potassium contents in the soils at 0-15cm depth are very low (WR=0.1724 Cmol/kg, SR=0.1008 Cmol/kg, GR=0.1838 Cmol/kg, and 0.1478 Cmol/kg) and these values are reducing with increasing depth. At both 0-5cm and 15 – 30cm depth, there are no significant differences in the potassium contents mong the soils of all the weeds investigated. The portions with CR and GR have high and significantly same organic carbon contents at 0-15cm (23.61g/kg and 23.01g/kg respectively) but moderate organic carbon content at 15-30cm (18.22g/kg and15.23g/kg respectively) which are also significantly the same, while the portions with WR and SR have moderate organic carbon contents at both depths (15.49g/kg, .91g/kg and 42g/kg, 14.76g/kg respectively). The Organic carbon content in the CR portion was the highest (23.61g/kg) followed by the portion with GR (23.01g/kg) at 0-15 cm depth while the ortion with WR is the lowest (15.49g/kg). The 15-30cm depths also followed the same end. There was a significant difference between the mean value of organic carbon content of the portion with WR (15.49g/kg) and CR (23.61g/kg). There were no significant differences between the nitrogen value in soils of CR and GR at both depths. The results also showed that the soils of the portion with CR has significantly the highest nutrients reserve of followed by GR, then SR while WR has the lowest fertility levels.

The status and distribution of some selected oxides and monosaccarides research on soils of cowpea and maize farms was carried out in faculty of Agriculture, university of Benin suitated in Ovia North east of Edo state,Nigeria. 24 soil samples was collected using a factorial experimental design of 2×4×3 .I.e two different farms at four different depths(0-30,30-60,60-90,90-120cm) replicated three times.The results shows that the soils were strongly acidic for the pH of both farms, the oxides of iron was higher in soils of maize farm compared with cowpea farm.Also, for monosaccarides, Arabinose was higher compare to glucose, galactose,mannose and xylose for both farms(kuzyavok,Y ,2006y). The correlation coefficient matrix showing the relationship between forms of iron and manganese oxides from maize farms was negatively correlated and significant at pH while the correlation coefficient matrix showing the relationship between the oxides of iron and manganese from cowpea farm was positively correlated and significant with clay.

The distribution and marketing of leafy vegetables pose significant challenges due to their perishable nature. This study was conducted to assess the profitability of vegetable marketing in Benin City, Edo State, by examining the socioeconomic characteristics of leafy vegetable marketers, determining the cost and margins of leafy vegetable marketing, analyzing the determinants of profit in this sector, and identifying associated challenges. A sample of 100 respondents from five markets was selected using a simple random sampling method. Data were collected through structured questionnaire administered to vegetables marketers. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics budgetary analysis and inferential statistics (linear regression). The findings indicate that the majority (89.0%) of respondents were females, highlighting the dominance of females in vegetable marketing. Middle-aged individuals constitute a substantial proportion (40%) of vegetable marketers, and married individuals dominate the sector (42%). Larger households with 4-6 members contribute significantly to family labor and expenses. Total revenue (TR) from various vegetables amounted to ₦29,675.71, with variable osts (TVC) totaling ₦20,730 and fixed costs at ₦7,050. The total Marketing cost (TMC) was ₦27,780, resulting in a net return of ₦1,895.71. While the net return indicates profitability, it is relatively lower compared to previous research findings. Key constraints include poor access roads, rapid quality deterioration/spoilage, seasonal price fluctuations, and high transportation costs. The perishable nature of vegetables presents a significant challenge. it can be concluded that vegetable marketing in Benin City is predominantly conducted by females, often middle- aged and married individuals. Despite profitability, the profit margin is comparatively lower than in previous studies. It was recommended that addressing poor access roads to alleviate transportation challenges and reduce spoilage and marketing costs.

The term ‘maize’ seems to be derived from the word ‘mahiz’ of Taino language of the Caribbean islands, which became ‘maiz’ in Spanish (Oxford dictionary 2015). Based on this common name, Linnaeus included the name as species in the botanical classification of Zea. Maize is also popularly known as ‘corn’ in English-speaking countries. In some countries, ‘corn’ means the ‘local staple’, while in some others it is used for any ‘cereal’. The ear of maize is unique among cereals, and morphologically similar wild progenitor of maize could not be found. Therefore, its evolution has been a great scientific challenge and of great interest for both biologists and archaeologists. Many hypotheses/theories have been proposed by different scientists to explain the origin of maize. Among them, (1) tripartite hypothesis, (2) catastrophic sexual transmutation theory, (3) Tripsacum-Zea diploperennis hypothesis, and, (4) teosinte hypothesis were debated and discussed in detail by different scientists.

Background: On-farm biodiversity is essential for ecological resilience, food security, and the preservation of indigenous genetic resources. In Ondo State, Nigeria, maize is a primary staple crop, yet the diversity of varieties cultivated on individual farms is increasingly threatened by the drive for commercialization and the adoption of high-yielding monocultures. Objective: This study analyzed the factors influencing on-farm biodiversity—specifically cultivar richness—among maize farmers in Ondo State, Nigeria Methodology: A multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select maize farmers across the three senatorial districts of the state. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and focused group discussions. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Simpson Diversity Index to measure the level of biodiversity, and Poisson regression analysis (or Multiple Regression) to identify the socio-economic and institutional determinants of on-farm diversity Findings: Results indicated that a significant majority (approximately 76%) of maize farmers in the study area practice in situ conservation by cultivating more than one variety on their land. The analysis revealed that: Socio-economic Factors: Farm size, household size, and years of farming experience were positively and significantly correlated with higher levels of biodiversity. Institutional Factors: Access to extension services and membership in farmers' associations played dual roles; while extension services often promoted improved varieties (potentially reducing diversity), they also provided the technical knowledge necessary for managing multi-crop systems. Technological Factors: The number of agricultural technologies adopted and the level of information received regarding climate-resilient seeds significantly influenced the retention of traditional varieties.

The study evaluate nutrient composition of Jatropha curcas seed oil. Fully ripened Jatropha curcas fruits were collected from Jatropha plantation closed to Wildlife Ecotourism proposed site, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin, Benin City. Samples were collected from three parts of the plantation. The seeds were extracted from the fruits and air-dried accordingly. The dried seeds were taken to Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin, Benin City main laboratory. The seeds were dehusked and grinded using ceramic mortar and pestle. The oil was extracted using a 500ml soxhler extraction apparatus using N-Hexane. Excess N-Hexane were recovered after removing the extracted sample from the extractor and oil parameters determined according to AOAC official method. Data collected were subjected to inferential statistics using analysis of variance (ANOVA) at 5% level of significance. The results showed that moisture and crude protein content of the three samples of Jatropha curcas seed oils were significantly difference (P˂0.05). The moisture content ranged between 0.08±0.001 to 0.10±0.002 with an average of 0.09±0.01%. The crude protein content ranged between 17.50±1.7 to 17.80±1.5 with an average of 17.70±1.5. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in %fat among the samples. The %fat ranges between 39.4±2.9 to 40.2±2.2, with an average of 39.8±2.7. The results revealed significant difference (P˂0.05) in acid values, saponification, and free fatty acid among the three samples of J. curcas seed oil, while the values of Iodine and peroxide among the three samples showed no significant difference (P>0.05). The average acid values, Iodine, saponification, peroxide and free fatty acid of atropha curcas seed oil were 1.20±0.3, 82.4±3.6, 166.0±4.9, 1.93±0.1, and 0.40±0.02 respectively. In conclusion, the proximate composition studied revealed that the J. curcas seed oil is a good source of protein and has high fat content. This makes the x seed a valuable dietary supplement which can help reduce the problem of protein energy malnutrition.

This study examined the value chain addition of Parkia biglobosa (African locust bean) in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, with emphasis on its processing, packaging, transportation, profitability, and contribution to livelihoods. A total of 120 respondents, comprising traders and processors, were randomly and purposively selected from eight major markets across two Local Government Areas (Oredo and Egor) namely Ekiosa, Oba, Agbado, New Benin, Uwelu, Uselu, Oliha, and Ogida. Primary data were obtained through structured questionnaires and interviews, while secondary data were sourced from relevant literature. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis, and simple cost and return methods. Findings revealed that 97.5% of respondents were female, with the majority (75%) having at least secondary education and over 13 years of experience in the trade. The most preferred product was the fermented locust bean (iru), processed using traditional methods. Gross margin analysis indicated that processed products were significantly more profitable than raw seeds, yielding a net return of ₦3,004.11 per kg compared to ₦786.79 per kg from raw seeds. This translates to a profit margin of 52.3% for processed products and 47.7% for raw seeds, underscoring the economic advantage of value addition. However, the study identified major challenges such as inadequate transportation (mean = 3.22), high market levies (3.51), poor access to ready markets (3.11), and limited awareness of value-added opportunities (3.41). Despite these constraints, Parkia biglobosa remains a vital source of livelihood and nutrition, particularly due to its rich vitamin A content, which supports eye health and general wellbeing. The study concludes that improving processing efficiency, adopting modern packaging techniques, and strengthening distribution channels will significantly enhance the profitability and competitiveness of Parkia biglobosa. It recommends entrepreneurial investment in branding, cooperative marketing, and value-added innovations such as powdered iru or ready-to-use condiments, which will boost income generation and promote the wider use of this indigenous, health-enhancing product.

Dialium guineense fruit is an important tropical fruit which faces substantial post-harvest losses and food safety concerns due to microbial contamination. This study investigated microorganisms associated with the shell, pulp and seed of D. guineense to determine infection rates, identify microbial species (fungal and bacterial) and assess their diversity. The research was conducted at the media preparation room of the Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Three (3) fruit parts were studied: Shell, pulp and seed on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) and Nutrient Agar (NA) laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with six (6) replications. It involved evaluating infection percentages, sub-culturing and identification based on cultural, morphological and biochemical characteristics. Results showed a 100% infection rate across all fruit parts except one (1) replicate which had a 75% infection rate, indicating significant microbial pressure. A wide variety of fungal and bacterial species was observed, with specific microbial adaptations per fruit part. Pathogenic bacteria, including Shigella sp. and Bacillus cereus, were identified, posing potential health risks, alongside Aspergillus and Fusarium species. This study confirms the fruit's vulnerability to widespread microbial contamination. Findings underscore the critical necessity for improved safety measures against Aspergillus and Fusarium contamination, while identifying promising opportunities to utilize Saccharomyces sp. for industrial processing and seed extracts for natural preservation

Maize (Zea mays L.) is a staple crop critical for global food security, yet its productivity is often constrained by soil nutrient deficiencies, pest infestations, and reliance on synthetic inputs. This study evaluated the agronomic response of maize to the application of neem leaf powder, an organic amendment derived from Azadirachta indica, as a sustainable alternative for enhancing soil fertility and plant performance. The study was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin, Benin City. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and replicated five times. The treatment comprised four rates of A. indica leaf powder (0.0, 60.0, 120.0, and 180.0 Kg ha -1). Percent emergence, Percent establishment, Days to tasseling, Plant height, Number of ears harvested and Stover yield were evaluated. The results showed that the leaf powder significantly improved maize growth. The best performance was obtained from the plots incorporated with 180kg of A. indica leaf powder. The study concludes that Azadirachta indica leaf powder, is a viable and eco-friendly organic fertilizer for maize cultivation and reducing chemical dependency