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Moses Mutetwa

Africa University, Zimbabwe, Horticulture, Alumnus

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I aspire to acquire an understanding of a holistic integrated system approach to agriculture and resource management through developing my skills in research and extension that addresses the challenges of food production and security to meet the nutritional requirements in Africa through improved agricultural practices and sustainable management of natural resources.
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Papers by Moses Mutetwa

Effects of Planting Depth and Variety on Container Produced Potatoes

Journal of Global Innovations in Agricultural and Social Sciences ), 2015

Food security has become a crucial issue because of climate change, reduction of arable land, inc... more Food security has become a crucial issue because of climate change, reduction of arable land, increasing population and frequent occurrence of natural disasters. The solution for many space-starved Zimbabwean gardeners is to grow their potatoes in sacks. However, there is a growing concern on this production method as possible yields are claimed to be as high as 30kg per plant yet some experienced container potato producers have had yields below 0.5 kg per plant. A study aimed at improving the yield of container produced potatoes through establishing a suitable planting depth and identifying better performing cultivars of potatoes grown in sacks was done. A Randomized Complete Block Design was used with 3 varieties (Amethyst, BP1 and Pimpernel) and 3 planting depths (10, 15 and 20 cm). Results for this work reveals that days to emergence, number of leaves, number of branches, stem diameter and stem length were significantly influenced by planting depth. Earliest days to emergence (8.56) was at 10cm while the lowest number of leaves was observed at 20cm and number of branches (11.44) was highest at 15cm. The largest stem diameter (0.744cm) and stem length (55.1cm) was at a planting of 15cm and 10cm, respectively. The varietal treatments were also significant for number of leaves, number of branches and stem length. BP1 produced largest tuber size (37.4mm) and more percentage sellable tubers (82.6%) while Amethyst gave the highest yield (492g). BP1 and Amethyst varieties might therefore be better choices for producing potatoes in a sack while Pimpernel did not produce well under these conditions.

Adoption and Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in Library and Information Centres

Effects of Information Capitalism and Globalization on Teaching and Learning

Effects of Planting Depth and Variety on Container Produced Potatoes

Journal of global innovation in agricultural and social sciences, Mar 1, 2015

Food security has become a crucial issue because of climate change, reduction of arable land, inc... more Food security has become a crucial issue because of climate change, reduction of arable land, increasing population and frequent occurrence of natural disasters. The solution for many space-starved Zimbabwean gardeners is to grow their potatoes in sacks. However, there is a growing concern on this production method as possible yields are claimed to be as high as 30kg per plant yet some experienced container potato producers have had yields below 0.5 kg per plant. A study aimed at improving the yield of container produced potatoes through establishing a suitable planting depth and identifying better performing cultivars of potatoes grown in sacks was done. A Randomized Complete Block Design was used with 3 varieties (Amethyst, BP1 and Pimpernel) and 3 planting depths (10, 15 and 20 cm). Results for this work reveals that days to emergence, number of leaves, number of branches, stem diameter and stem length were significantly influenced by planting depth. Earliest days to emergence (8.56) was at 10cm while the lowest number of leaves was observed at 20cm and number of branches (11.44) was highest at 15cm. The largest stem diameter (0.744cm) and stem length (55.1cm) was at a planting of 15cm and 10cm, respectively. The varietal treatments were also significant for number of leaves, number of branches and stem length. BP1 produced largest tuber size (37.4mm) and more percentage sellable tubers (82.6%) while Amethyst gave the highest yield (492g). BP1 and Amethyst varieties might therefore be better choices for producing potatoes in a sack while Pimpernel did not produce well under these conditions.

Effects of Plant Density and Planting Arrangement in Green Bean Seed Production

Journal of global innovation in agricultural and social sciences, Dec 1, 2014

Seed is the basic unit for any agricultural production system. Without quality seed, no one can e... more Seed is the basic unit for any agricultural production system. Without quality seed, no one can even think of good harvest and green been (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) production. Seed producers have to meet farmers seed demand by adopting appropriate plant population and arrangement pattern which would give them satisfactory seed yield of good quality. Previous researches on the same subject indicate that square arrangement results in high yield while others found no clear differences yet others advocate the use of higher plant densities during production. Several plant population densities (125,000 plants/ha, 163,265 plants/ha, 222,222 plants/ha and 320,000plants/ha) and three planting arrangement patterns (square, R50 and R40) were investigated in this study. Comparison of bush bean seed yield was highest (0.50t/ha) at population of 222,222 plants/ha and when planted in square arrangement pattern and least (0.13t/ha) at population of 360,000 plants/ha. Seed size was only influenced by plant population and not affected by plant arrangement pattern. Plant population density strongly influenced the percent of good seeds developed with populations of 125,000 and 163,265 plants/ha producing 97.01% and 96.15%, respectively. Germination of the harvested seeds was insignificant at all plant densities. The highest speed of germination (77.62%) of seeds was observed from a population density of 320,000 plants/ha. Therefore, green bean seed producers can adjust their planting density to 222,222 plants/ha in square arrangement to maximize seed yield

Assessment of Aflatoxin Awareness by Players in Groundnut Value Chain: The Case of Dora in Mutare, Zimbabwe

International journal of innovative research and development, Sep 25, 2015

Aflatoxin is a toxin mainly produced by the fungi Aspergilus flavus. It is a serious problem in a... more Aflatoxin is a toxin mainly produced by the fungi Aspergilus flavus. It is a serious problem in agricultural trade and health issues. However documentation and awareness of its effects is not widely evident. Without any awareness and knowledge of aflatoxin, it would be difficult to mitigate against it and its economic and health impacts. Based on evidence in literature, ‘molds’ and ‘toxin’ were used in the present as a surrogates for aflatoxin since chances of its presence are higher compared to the clean healthy looking peanut. The study aimed at assessing awareness and prevalence of aflatoxin along the groundnuts value chain It further assessed the mitigation strategies used by stakeholders. The study was preliminary and thus did not do any laboratory testing. Questionnaires were personally administered to groundnut value chain actors. These included farmers in Wards 5 and 35 of Dora in Mutare, vendors, representatives in processing companies and final consumers. A total of 54 respondents were included in the sample. This was achieved through a multistage sampling approach. The study area was purposively selected due to its dominance in groundnuts production and proximity to Mutare City which offered a ready market. Stratified random sampling was then used to select 28 farmers, 10 vendors, 1 representative from a storage center, 5 AGRITEX officers, 3 retailers and 7 processors. From the study, it was found that there is generally a low level of aflatoxin awareness. It was also found that molds are prevalent in all stages of the value chain. Some actors receive already affected nuts. In some cases the nuts are affected during storage due to the type and duration of storage. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that because of the ignorance businesses and lives are at risk as people consume and use moldy groundnuts. Stakeholders do have strategies of keeping their products mold free .A significant component are also willing to adopt any new mitigation strategies against molds and aflatoxin. From the research findings, raising aflatoxin awareness through campaigns and training programs is recommended. This can be augmented with innovative affordable mitigation strategies against aflatoxins such as affordable storage facilities and anti-aflatoxin cultural methods.

Cassava Fortification and Quality Evaluation

Journal of Aridland Agriculture, 1970

The broad objective of this work is to improve the nutrient content of cassava flour by inclusion... more The broad objective of this work is to improve the nutrient content of cassava flour by inclusion of cowpeas seed flour and cassava leaf powder to assess the effects of the cowpeas flour and cassava leaf powder inclusion on the nutrient quality and acceptability of the flour. Cassava tuber flour was fortified with cowpeas flour and from cassava leaves at 20% and 30% of dry weight. Standard methods were used for the determination of parameter such as protein and carbohydrates. All samples were analysed for potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, iron, and cyanide. Unfortified cassava had significantly lower (P<0.05) values (protein: 0.942%, P: 0.093%, K: 0.749 Mg: 0.052%, Fe: 5.008ppm) than fortification with both cowpeas flour and cassava leaf flour. Fortification with cowpeas flour did not significantly (P>0.05) change the Ca content however they were significant (P<0.05) increases cassava leaf flour. Cyanide content increased significantly for Treatment LF20 and LF30 b...

Priming seeds with potassium nitrate is associated with modulation of seed germination and seedling growth ecology of cucumis metuliferus

EUREKA: Life Sciences

The horned melon (Cucumis metuliferus) is mostly grown in tropical and subtropical countries, whe... more The horned melon (Cucumis metuliferus) is mostly grown in tropical and subtropical countries, where it thrives on deep to shallow, well-drained soils. Seed dormancy, which causes poor and delayed germination, has remained a problem for farmers in several African countries, including Zimbabwe, who have begun producing horned melon. Midlands State University conducted a laboratory experiment to evaluate the effects of potassium nitrate on seed germination and early seedling growth of horned melon. The experiment was set up in a Completely Random Design (CRD) with seven different potassium nitrate (KNO3) concentrations (0 %, 0.5 %, 1.0 %, 1.5 %, 2.0 %, 2.5 %, and 3.0 %), each duplicated three times. The data was analyzed using a one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in Genstat 18th edition. The characteristics of germination and early seedling development were assessed. All germination and early seedling development characteristics were significantly affected by potassium nitrate. Germi...

The effect of superphosphate and plant density on mini-tuber production from True Potato Seed (TPS)

International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences, 2011

Improving tuber seed quality and availability is institutionally complex in the tropics and sub-t... more Improving tuber seed quality and availability is institutionally complex in the tropics and sub-tropics. This experiment was carried out at Africa University farm, Zimbabwe. The main objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of superphosphate and plant density on mini-tuber production from true potato seed. The enhancement of all growth variables was due to P availability in the soil allowing plants to develop without restrictions as rates increased. Days to maturity, shoot P, tuber dry matter, shoot dry matter and specific gravity showed significant responses to superphosphate. This showed that phosphorus plays an important role in growth and development of the mini-tubers. Differences in the parameters measured as affected by increasing P rates were mainly between the lowest and the highest P treatments, suggesting that at lower rates of phosphate application, the nutrient was insufficient. Phosphorus showed significant yield increases with increase in application rates. Yield also increased significantly by weight with decreased planting spacings adopted.

Different nursery growing systems and growth media improved germination and seedling growth of fever tea (Lippia javanica)

EUREKA: Life Sciences

An experiment was set up in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) to examine the influence of nurs... more An experiment was set up in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) to examine the influence of nursery growing methods and growth medium on fever, tea germination, and seedling development. Two nursery growth methods (Conventional-CON and Float tray system FTs) and six different growing medium (pine bark, peat moss, coco peat, vermiculite, sand, and cattle manure) were used. ANOVA was used to compare treatment means, and means were separated using the Least Significant Difference (LSD) at a 5 % significance level. The nursery growing method and growth material exhibited a strong interaction regarding the germination index, germination percentage, seedling height, leaf area, root length, density, and final crop stand. The float tray approach yielded the greatest germination index for peat moss and the lowest for cattle manure. In the float tray method, peat moss and coco peat had the highest germination percentages, whereas cattle manure had the lowest. Under the float tray technique, ...

Effect of Trichoderma-Based Biofertilizers on the Flower and Fruit Pattern of Horned Melon (Cucumis metuliferus E. Mey. ex Naudin)

International Journal of Agronomy

The lack of agronomic information is one of the various reasons given for the failure of indigeno... more The lack of agronomic information is one of the various reasons given for the failure of indigenous vegetables to move from subsistence plants of restricted use to vegetables that are considerably researched, utilized, available, and commercially aggressive. A greenhouse study was conducted at Midlands State University’s Department of Horticulture and Agronomy to consider the impact of Trichoderma biofertilizer at different stages on the overall performance of horned melon (Cucumis metuliferus). A complete randomized block design (CRBD) was used for this greenhouse experiment. Four Trichoderma-based biofertilizer treatments (0.1 g/pot, 0.2 g/pot, 0.3 g/pot, and 0.4 g/pot) and a control treatment (0.0 g/pot) in four replications were laid down. Inoculation by way of biofertilizer registered significant ( p < 0.05 ) results as a greater number of male flowers were recorded. Higher rates of biofertilizers of 0.3 g/pot and 0.4 g/pot gave more flowers, 10.75 and 12.25, respectively, v...

Effect of different chemical fertilizers and application rate on tomato growth and yield

International Journal of Academic Research and Development, 2020

This present study was done to evaluate the effect of different basal chemical fertilizers singly... more This present study was done to evaluate the effect of different basal chemical fertilizers singly and in combination at varying application rates on the growth and yield attributes of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). The field experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) as a 3 x 3 factorial trial treatment with four replicates. Data was collected on number of: leaves, branches, fruits, flowers; plant height and fruit yield. All the collected data were subjected to statistical analysis. The results revealed that there were significant (p&lt; 0.05) differences in number of: leaves, branches, fruits, flowers; plant height and fruit yield. In these parameters, the highest mean values were registered in treatment F3Compound D + Gypsum (combination of chemical fertilizers Compound D + Gypsum) than those in the chemical fertilizers applied alone or control treatment. The highest mean yield was significant from treatment A1300kgs with the highest application rate. The result determined that application of chemical fertilizers F3Compound D + Gypsum x A1300kgs can increase the growth and total yield in tomato cultivation over the standard control.

Prevalence and Severity of Bacterial Soft Rot in Commonly Grown Potato Varieties in Nyanga District, Zimbabwe

Journal of Global Innovations in Agricultural and Social Sciences ), 2016

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production in Zimbabwe is an important element of the agricultural ... more Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production in Zimbabwe is an important element of the agricultural production sector. The local industry is however affected by low yields due to soft rot disease (Pectobacterium carotororum subsp. carotovorum) and poor quality produce. The main thrust of this study was to come up with recommendations that would increase potato production through improved knowledge of cultivar choices according to ranked performance in terms of soft rot infestations. Four experiments were conducted, in the field; in greenhouse, in storage at 10 o C and at room temperature on soft rot inoculated and un-inoculated potato tubers. The experiments were conducted on five locally available varieties in Zimbabwe. Tubers were screened for soft rot infection using counts and weights of infected tubers and BP1 showed significant difference (p<0.05) in terms of soft rot infestation on counted tubers. The field experiment treatments of Amethyst, Mnandi, BP1, Montclare and Jasper ...

Effect of Different Mulch Colors on Cucumber Production

Journal of Global Innovations in Agricultural and Social Sciences ), 2014

The increased use of colored plastic mulch is a better approach to control weeds and improvement ... more The increased use of colored plastic mulch is a better approach to control weeds and improvement in agricultural production. Plastic mulches affect plant microclimate by modifying the soil energy balance and restricting soil water evaporation, thereby influencing plant growth and yield. A field study was conducted on 5 mulching colors (black, blue, red, silvery-grey, yellow) and wheat straw as control. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of different colors of plastic mulch on growth performance and yield of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus). The microclimate condition improved by the mulches have provided a suitable condition for producing superior branch characteristics, number of fruits/plant, fruit size and total yield in the plants. Marketable fruit yield significantly improved by the use of a silvery-grey colored plastic mulch (37.9t/ha) compared to the blue colored mulch (15.3t/ha) and wheat straw mulch (26.4t/ha). Also, the significant results were observed in gr...

Effect of Bio Fertilizer With Varying Levels of Mineral Fertilizer on Maize (Zea Mays.L) Growth

Repeated use of agricultural land over several years has created severe reduction of soil fertili... more Repeated use of agricultural land over several years has created severe reduction of soil fertility and a disproportion in the store of nutrients available attributable to widening gap between nutrient removal and supplier. Bio fertilizers have been renowned as alternative to augment mineral fertilizers to increase soil fertility for crop production in sustainable agriculture. A study was therefore conducted with the objective to establish optimum levels of microbial fertilizer and mineral fertilizer on some characteristics of maize plant. Ten treatment levels of varying levels of microbial consortium bio fertilizer and mineral fertilizer combinations were laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and replicated three times. There was significant (P<0.05) degree of influence for application of combinations of bio fertilizer with mineral fertilizer at varying levels on plant growth characteristics. Stem girth and fresh weight were maximum at Trt9, plant height was maxi...

Effect of cutting position and vine pruning level on yield of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea Batatas L.)

Journal of Aridland Agriculture, 1970

There is significant variation in yield of storage roots and vines of sweet potato (Ipomoea batat... more There is significant variation in yield of storage roots and vines of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) among farmers due to use of different cutting positions and pruning of vines at different levels. This study was carried out to establish the cutting position and the vine pruning level that give the best yield of both the storage roots and vines. The study was conducted in a 3x3 factorial arrangement in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Treatments included cutting position at three levels (apical cutting, middle cutting and basal cutting) and pruning at three levels, 0%, 25% and 50% respectively. Pruning was done. 50 days after planting. And storage root harvesting was done 100 days after planting. The two measurements were summed up to give the total vine weight. Storage root length, diameter and weight were measured at 100 DAP. Storage root length indicated significant difference (P<0.05) only among cutting positions with highest mean length (16.2...

Effects of Mulching and Fertilizer Sources on Growth and Yield of Onion

Journal of Global Innovations in Agricultural and Social Sciences, 2014

Onion is an important horticultural vegetable in the urban Zimbabwe market. In Zimbabwe there is ... more Onion is an important horticultural vegetable in the urban Zimbabwe market. In Zimbabwe there is a need to improve the yield of onions on garden size areas utilizing locally available materials thereby avoiding purchased inputs which are often unavailable or inaccessible due to no supply or prohibitive price The present studies investigate the effect of trash grass and sawdust mulches in combination with organic and inorganic fertilizers on onion growth and yield. When the two mulching materials were compared, trash grass mulch favored the growth of onions more than sawdust mulch. Mulching improved soil water retention capacity, improved soil structure and suppressed weeds. These features played a significant role in the performance and ultimately the yield of onions. Similarly, total plant weight, aerial leaf weight, bulb weight and yields plot were also higher for samples taken from plots with trash grass mulch than those mulched with sawdust. This work also sought to evaluate mulching materials and fertilizer types on the various components of the onion plant at different stages of development and hence their contribution to the final yield. Trash grass in combination with organic and inorganic fertilizer the final yield improved by 160% and 310% respectively. As for sawdust, final yield improved by 103% and 275% for combinations with organic and inorganic fertilizer respectively. The effect of fertilizer types alone on the growth and yield of onions was less dramatic than that of mulch.

Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria-Fungi as Growth Promoter in Wheat Production

Journal of Asian Scientific Research, 2020

Contribution/ Originality: The paper's primary contribution is finding that bio-fertilizers can b... more

EffectofSpentButtonMushroomSubstrateonYieldandQualityof Baby Spinach ( Spinacia oleracea )

Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Department of Horticulture, P. Bag ... more Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Department of Horticulture, P. Bag 35, Marondera, Zimbabwe Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Department of Environmental Sciences and Technology, P. Bag 35, Marondera, Zimbabwe Midlands State University, Faculty of Natural Resource Management and Agriculture, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, P. Bag 9055, Gweru, Zimbabwe Future of Hope Foundation, Christon Bank, Mazowe, Zimbabwe

Influence of vermicomposted soil amendments on plant growth and dry matter partitioning in seedling production

The present experiment was undertaken to evaluate the effects of different vermicompost substitut... more The present experiment was undertaken to evaluate the effects of different vermicompost substitutions for vlei soil in seedling nursery production. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) seeds were planted in five treatment groups including without vermicompost, 25% vermicompost, 50% vermicompost, 75% vermicompost and 100% vermicompost. Vlei soils were incorporated into the experiment making up the different supplements. There was significant (P<0.05) influence of vermicompost amendments. Tallest seedlings were recorded from V50%(13.2cm) and V75%(12.6cm) and means from treatments V25%, V50% and V75% were significantly higher than treatment V0%. Treatment V100% recorded the highest number of leaves(5.88). Highest root fresh weight was recorded from V50%(2.16g). All treatments revealed a significant difference amongst the treatments with V50% having the highest shoot dry weight of 2.22g. The means...

Effect of Bio Priming Seeds with Microbial Based Bio Fertilizers on Growth of Maize Seedlings

The world over agriculture is being threatened by adverse effects of climate change. For that rea... more The world over agriculture is being threatened by adverse effects of climate change. For that reason, Sub-Saharan Africa needs to intensify agricultural production to feed her growing population adequately in a sustainable manner by the exploitation of beneficial microbes as a bio fertilizer for food security, food safety and sustainable crop production. The study aimed to assess the effects of bio priming with Trichoderma and Bacillus based-bio fertilizers on maize plant characteristics. A pot experiment was conducted for each bio fertilizer. The soaking treatments for the bio fertilizers were applied to the seeds as follows: Trt1 = 0 hours, Trt2 = 8 hours, Trt3 = 16 hours, Trt4 = 24 hours, and Trt5 = Control. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. The effect of soaking was significant (P<0.05) for the parameters (plant height, root length, fresh weight, dry weight) investigated. Number of leaves was only significant (P<0.05) ...

Effects of Planting Depth and Variety on Container Produced Potatoes

Journal of Global Innovations in Agricultural and Social Sciences ), 2015

Food security has become a crucial issue because of climate change, reduction of arable land, inc... more Food security has become a crucial issue because of climate change, reduction of arable land, increasing population and frequent occurrence of natural disasters. The solution for many space-starved Zimbabwean gardeners is to grow their potatoes in sacks. However, there is a growing concern on this production method as possible yields are claimed to be as high as 30kg per plant yet some experienced container potato producers have had yields below 0.5 kg per plant. A study aimed at improving the yield of container produced potatoes through establishing a suitable planting depth and identifying better performing cultivars of potatoes grown in sacks was done. A Randomized Complete Block Design was used with 3 varieties (Amethyst, BP1 and Pimpernel) and 3 planting depths (10, 15 and 20 cm). Results for this work reveals that days to emergence, number of leaves, number of branches, stem diameter and stem length were significantly influenced by planting depth. Earliest days to emergence (8.56) was at 10cm while the lowest number of leaves was observed at 20cm and number of branches (11.44) was highest at 15cm. The largest stem diameter (0.744cm) and stem length (55.1cm) was at a planting of 15cm and 10cm, respectively. The varietal treatments were also significant for number of leaves, number of branches and stem length. BP1 produced largest tuber size (37.4mm) and more percentage sellable tubers (82.6%) while Amethyst gave the highest yield (492g). BP1 and Amethyst varieties might therefore be better choices for producing potatoes in a sack while Pimpernel did not produce well under these conditions.

Adoption and Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in Library and Information Centres

Effects of Information Capitalism and Globalization on Teaching and Learning

Effects of Planting Depth and Variety on Container Produced Potatoes

Journal of global innovation in agricultural and social sciences, Mar 1, 2015

Food security has become a crucial issue because of climate change, reduction of arable land, inc... more Food security has become a crucial issue because of climate change, reduction of arable land, increasing population and frequent occurrence of natural disasters. The solution for many space-starved Zimbabwean gardeners is to grow their potatoes in sacks. However, there is a growing concern on this production method as possible yields are claimed to be as high as 30kg per plant yet some experienced container potato producers have had yields below 0.5 kg per plant. A study aimed at improving the yield of container produced potatoes through establishing a suitable planting depth and identifying better performing cultivars of potatoes grown in sacks was done. A Randomized Complete Block Design was used with 3 varieties (Amethyst, BP1 and Pimpernel) and 3 planting depths (10, 15 and 20 cm). Results for this work reveals that days to emergence, number of leaves, number of branches, stem diameter and stem length were significantly influenced by planting depth. Earliest days to emergence (8.56) was at 10cm while the lowest number of leaves was observed at 20cm and number of branches (11.44) was highest at 15cm. The largest stem diameter (0.744cm) and stem length (55.1cm) was at a planting of 15cm and 10cm, respectively. The varietal treatments were also significant for number of leaves, number of branches and stem length. BP1 produced largest tuber size (37.4mm) and more percentage sellable tubers (82.6%) while Amethyst gave the highest yield (492g). BP1 and Amethyst varieties might therefore be better choices for producing potatoes in a sack while Pimpernel did not produce well under these conditions.

Effects of Plant Density and Planting Arrangement in Green Bean Seed Production

Journal of global innovation in agricultural and social sciences, Dec 1, 2014

Seed is the basic unit for any agricultural production system. Without quality seed, no one can e... more Seed is the basic unit for any agricultural production system. Without quality seed, no one can even think of good harvest and green been (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) production. Seed producers have to meet farmers seed demand by adopting appropriate plant population and arrangement pattern which would give them satisfactory seed yield of good quality. Previous researches on the same subject indicate that square arrangement results in high yield while others found no clear differences yet others advocate the use of higher plant densities during production. Several plant population densities (125,000 plants/ha, 163,265 plants/ha, 222,222 plants/ha and 320,000plants/ha) and three planting arrangement patterns (square, R50 and R40) were investigated in this study. Comparison of bush bean seed yield was highest (0.50t/ha) at population of 222,222 plants/ha and when planted in square arrangement pattern and least (0.13t/ha) at population of 360,000 plants/ha. Seed size was only influenced by plant population and not affected by plant arrangement pattern. Plant population density strongly influenced the percent of good seeds developed with populations of 125,000 and 163,265 plants/ha producing 97.01% and 96.15%, respectively. Germination of the harvested seeds was insignificant at all plant densities. The highest speed of germination (77.62%) of seeds was observed from a population density of 320,000 plants/ha. Therefore, green bean seed producers can adjust their planting density to 222,222 plants/ha in square arrangement to maximize seed yield

Assessment of Aflatoxin Awareness by Players in Groundnut Value Chain: The Case of Dora in Mutare, Zimbabwe

International journal of innovative research and development, Sep 25, 2015

Aflatoxin is a toxin mainly produced by the fungi Aspergilus flavus. It is a serious problem in a... more Aflatoxin is a toxin mainly produced by the fungi Aspergilus flavus. It is a serious problem in agricultural trade and health issues. However documentation and awareness of its effects is not widely evident. Without any awareness and knowledge of aflatoxin, it would be difficult to mitigate against it and its economic and health impacts. Based on evidence in literature, ‘molds’ and ‘toxin’ were used in the present as a surrogates for aflatoxin since chances of its presence are higher compared to the clean healthy looking peanut. The study aimed at assessing awareness and prevalence of aflatoxin along the groundnuts value chain It further assessed the mitigation strategies used by stakeholders. The study was preliminary and thus did not do any laboratory testing. Questionnaires were personally administered to groundnut value chain actors. These included farmers in Wards 5 and 35 of Dora in Mutare, vendors, representatives in processing companies and final consumers. A total of 54 respondents were included in the sample. This was achieved through a multistage sampling approach. The study area was purposively selected due to its dominance in groundnuts production and proximity to Mutare City which offered a ready market. Stratified random sampling was then used to select 28 farmers, 10 vendors, 1 representative from a storage center, 5 AGRITEX officers, 3 retailers and 7 processors. From the study, it was found that there is generally a low level of aflatoxin awareness. It was also found that molds are prevalent in all stages of the value chain. Some actors receive already affected nuts. In some cases the nuts are affected during storage due to the type and duration of storage. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that because of the ignorance businesses and lives are at risk as people consume and use moldy groundnuts. Stakeholders do have strategies of keeping their products mold free .A significant component are also willing to adopt any new mitigation strategies against molds and aflatoxin. From the research findings, raising aflatoxin awareness through campaigns and training programs is recommended. This can be augmented with innovative affordable mitigation strategies against aflatoxins such as affordable storage facilities and anti-aflatoxin cultural methods.

Cassava Fortification and Quality Evaluation

Journal of Aridland Agriculture, 1970

The broad objective of this work is to improve the nutrient content of cassava flour by inclusion... more The broad objective of this work is to improve the nutrient content of cassava flour by inclusion of cowpeas seed flour and cassava leaf powder to assess the effects of the cowpeas flour and cassava leaf powder inclusion on the nutrient quality and acceptability of the flour. Cassava tuber flour was fortified with cowpeas flour and from cassava leaves at 20% and 30% of dry weight. Standard methods were used for the determination of parameter such as protein and carbohydrates. All samples were analysed for potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, iron, and cyanide. Unfortified cassava had significantly lower (P<0.05) values (protein: 0.942%, P: 0.093%, K: 0.749 Mg: 0.052%, Fe: 5.008ppm) than fortification with both cowpeas flour and cassava leaf flour. Fortification with cowpeas flour did not significantly (P>0.05) change the Ca content however they were significant (P<0.05) increases cassava leaf flour. Cyanide content increased significantly for Treatment LF20 and LF30 b...

Priming seeds with potassium nitrate is associated with modulation of seed germination and seedling growth ecology of cucumis metuliferus

EUREKA: Life Sciences

The horned melon (Cucumis metuliferus) is mostly grown in tropical and subtropical countries, whe... more The horned melon (Cucumis metuliferus) is mostly grown in tropical and subtropical countries, where it thrives on deep to shallow, well-drained soils. Seed dormancy, which causes poor and delayed germination, has remained a problem for farmers in several African countries, including Zimbabwe, who have begun producing horned melon. Midlands State University conducted a laboratory experiment to evaluate the effects of potassium nitrate on seed germination and early seedling growth of horned melon. The experiment was set up in a Completely Random Design (CRD) with seven different potassium nitrate (KNO3) concentrations (0 %, 0.5 %, 1.0 %, 1.5 %, 2.0 %, 2.5 %, and 3.0 %), each duplicated three times. The data was analyzed using a one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in Genstat 18th edition. The characteristics of germination and early seedling development were assessed. All germination and early seedling development characteristics were significantly affected by potassium nitrate. Germi...

The effect of superphosphate and plant density on mini-tuber production from True Potato Seed (TPS)

International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences, 2011

Improving tuber seed quality and availability is institutionally complex in the tropics and sub-t... more Improving tuber seed quality and availability is institutionally complex in the tropics and sub-tropics. This experiment was carried out at Africa University farm, Zimbabwe. The main objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of superphosphate and plant density on mini-tuber production from true potato seed. The enhancement of all growth variables was due to P availability in the soil allowing plants to develop without restrictions as rates increased. Days to maturity, shoot P, tuber dry matter, shoot dry matter and specific gravity showed significant responses to superphosphate. This showed that phosphorus plays an important role in growth and development of the mini-tubers. Differences in the parameters measured as affected by increasing P rates were mainly between the lowest and the highest P treatments, suggesting that at lower rates of phosphate application, the nutrient was insufficient. Phosphorus showed significant yield increases with increase in application rates. Yield also increased significantly by weight with decreased planting spacings adopted.

Different nursery growing systems and growth media improved germination and seedling growth of fever tea (Lippia javanica)

EUREKA: Life Sciences

An experiment was set up in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) to examine the influence of nurs... more An experiment was set up in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) to examine the influence of nursery growing methods and growth medium on fever, tea germination, and seedling development. Two nursery growth methods (Conventional-CON and Float tray system FTs) and six different growing medium (pine bark, peat moss, coco peat, vermiculite, sand, and cattle manure) were used. ANOVA was used to compare treatment means, and means were separated using the Least Significant Difference (LSD) at a 5 % significance level. The nursery growing method and growth material exhibited a strong interaction regarding the germination index, germination percentage, seedling height, leaf area, root length, density, and final crop stand. The float tray approach yielded the greatest germination index for peat moss and the lowest for cattle manure. In the float tray method, peat moss and coco peat had the highest germination percentages, whereas cattle manure had the lowest. Under the float tray technique, ...

Effect of Trichoderma-Based Biofertilizers on the Flower and Fruit Pattern of Horned Melon (Cucumis metuliferus E. Mey. ex Naudin)

International Journal of Agronomy

The lack of agronomic information is one of the various reasons given for the failure of indigeno... more The lack of agronomic information is one of the various reasons given for the failure of indigenous vegetables to move from subsistence plants of restricted use to vegetables that are considerably researched, utilized, available, and commercially aggressive. A greenhouse study was conducted at Midlands State University’s Department of Horticulture and Agronomy to consider the impact of Trichoderma biofertilizer at different stages on the overall performance of horned melon (Cucumis metuliferus). A complete randomized block design (CRBD) was used for this greenhouse experiment. Four Trichoderma-based biofertilizer treatments (0.1 g/pot, 0.2 g/pot, 0.3 g/pot, and 0.4 g/pot) and a control treatment (0.0 g/pot) in four replications were laid down. Inoculation by way of biofertilizer registered significant ( p < 0.05 ) results as a greater number of male flowers were recorded. Higher rates of biofertilizers of 0.3 g/pot and 0.4 g/pot gave more flowers, 10.75 and 12.25, respectively, v...

Effect of different chemical fertilizers and application rate on tomato growth and yield

International Journal of Academic Research and Development, 2020

This present study was done to evaluate the effect of different basal chemical fertilizers singly... more This present study was done to evaluate the effect of different basal chemical fertilizers singly and in combination at varying application rates on the growth and yield attributes of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). The field experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) as a 3 x 3 factorial trial treatment with four replicates. Data was collected on number of: leaves, branches, fruits, flowers; plant height and fruit yield. All the collected data were subjected to statistical analysis. The results revealed that there were significant (p&lt; 0.05) differences in number of: leaves, branches, fruits, flowers; plant height and fruit yield. In these parameters, the highest mean values were registered in treatment F3Compound D + Gypsum (combination of chemical fertilizers Compound D + Gypsum) than those in the chemical fertilizers applied alone or control treatment. The highest mean yield was significant from treatment A1300kgs with the highest application rate. The result determined that application of chemical fertilizers F3Compound D + Gypsum x A1300kgs can increase the growth and total yield in tomato cultivation over the standard control.

Prevalence and Severity of Bacterial Soft Rot in Commonly Grown Potato Varieties in Nyanga District, Zimbabwe

Journal of Global Innovations in Agricultural and Social Sciences ), 2016

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production in Zimbabwe is an important element of the agricultural ... more Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production in Zimbabwe is an important element of the agricultural production sector. The local industry is however affected by low yields due to soft rot disease (Pectobacterium carotororum subsp. carotovorum) and poor quality produce. The main thrust of this study was to come up with recommendations that would increase potato production through improved knowledge of cultivar choices according to ranked performance in terms of soft rot infestations. Four experiments were conducted, in the field; in greenhouse, in storage at 10 o C and at room temperature on soft rot inoculated and un-inoculated potato tubers. The experiments were conducted on five locally available varieties in Zimbabwe. Tubers were screened for soft rot infection using counts and weights of infected tubers and BP1 showed significant difference (p<0.05) in terms of soft rot infestation on counted tubers. The field experiment treatments of Amethyst, Mnandi, BP1, Montclare and Jasper ...

Effect of Different Mulch Colors on Cucumber Production

Journal of Global Innovations in Agricultural and Social Sciences ), 2014

The increased use of colored plastic mulch is a better approach to control weeds and improvement ... more The increased use of colored plastic mulch is a better approach to control weeds and improvement in agricultural production. Plastic mulches affect plant microclimate by modifying the soil energy balance and restricting soil water evaporation, thereby influencing plant growth and yield. A field study was conducted on 5 mulching colors (black, blue, red, silvery-grey, yellow) and wheat straw as control. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of different colors of plastic mulch on growth performance and yield of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus). The microclimate condition improved by the mulches have provided a suitable condition for producing superior branch characteristics, number of fruits/plant, fruit size and total yield in the plants. Marketable fruit yield significantly improved by the use of a silvery-grey colored plastic mulch (37.9t/ha) compared to the blue colored mulch (15.3t/ha) and wheat straw mulch (26.4t/ha). Also, the significant results were observed in gr...

Effect of Bio Fertilizer With Varying Levels of Mineral Fertilizer on Maize (Zea Mays.L) Growth

Repeated use of agricultural land over several years has created severe reduction of soil fertili... more Repeated use of agricultural land over several years has created severe reduction of soil fertility and a disproportion in the store of nutrients available attributable to widening gap between nutrient removal and supplier. Bio fertilizers have been renowned as alternative to augment mineral fertilizers to increase soil fertility for crop production in sustainable agriculture. A study was therefore conducted with the objective to establish optimum levels of microbial fertilizer and mineral fertilizer on some characteristics of maize plant. Ten treatment levels of varying levels of microbial consortium bio fertilizer and mineral fertilizer combinations were laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and replicated three times. There was significant (P<0.05) degree of influence for application of combinations of bio fertilizer with mineral fertilizer at varying levels on plant growth characteristics. Stem girth and fresh weight were maximum at Trt9, plant height was maxi...

Effect of cutting position and vine pruning level on yield of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea Batatas L.)

Journal of Aridland Agriculture, 1970

There is significant variation in yield of storage roots and vines of sweet potato (Ipomoea batat... more There is significant variation in yield of storage roots and vines of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) among farmers due to use of different cutting positions and pruning of vines at different levels. This study was carried out to establish the cutting position and the vine pruning level that give the best yield of both the storage roots and vines. The study was conducted in a 3x3 factorial arrangement in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Treatments included cutting position at three levels (apical cutting, middle cutting and basal cutting) and pruning at three levels, 0%, 25% and 50% respectively. Pruning was done. 50 days after planting. And storage root harvesting was done 100 days after planting. The two measurements were summed up to give the total vine weight. Storage root length, diameter and weight were measured at 100 DAP. Storage root length indicated significant difference (P<0.05) only among cutting positions with highest mean length (16.2...

Effects of Mulching and Fertilizer Sources on Growth and Yield of Onion

Journal of Global Innovations in Agricultural and Social Sciences, 2014

Onion is an important horticultural vegetable in the urban Zimbabwe market. In Zimbabwe there is ... more Onion is an important horticultural vegetable in the urban Zimbabwe market. In Zimbabwe there is a need to improve the yield of onions on garden size areas utilizing locally available materials thereby avoiding purchased inputs which are often unavailable or inaccessible due to no supply or prohibitive price The present studies investigate the effect of trash grass and sawdust mulches in combination with organic and inorganic fertilizers on onion growth and yield. When the two mulching materials were compared, trash grass mulch favored the growth of onions more than sawdust mulch. Mulching improved soil water retention capacity, improved soil structure and suppressed weeds. These features played a significant role in the performance and ultimately the yield of onions. Similarly, total plant weight, aerial leaf weight, bulb weight and yields plot were also higher for samples taken from plots with trash grass mulch than those mulched with sawdust. This work also sought to evaluate mulching materials and fertilizer types on the various components of the onion plant at different stages of development and hence their contribution to the final yield. Trash grass in combination with organic and inorganic fertilizer the final yield improved by 160% and 310% respectively. As for sawdust, final yield improved by 103% and 275% for combinations with organic and inorganic fertilizer respectively. The effect of fertilizer types alone on the growth and yield of onions was less dramatic than that of mulch.

Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria-Fungi as Growth Promoter in Wheat Production

Journal of Asian Scientific Research, 2020

Contribution/ Originality: The paper's primary contribution is finding that bio-fertilizers can b... more

EffectofSpentButtonMushroomSubstrateonYieldandQualityof Baby Spinach ( Spinacia oleracea )

Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Department of Horticulture, P. Bag ... more Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Department of Horticulture, P. Bag 35, Marondera, Zimbabwe Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Department of Environmental Sciences and Technology, P. Bag 35, Marondera, Zimbabwe Midlands State University, Faculty of Natural Resource Management and Agriculture, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, P. Bag 9055, Gweru, Zimbabwe Future of Hope Foundation, Christon Bank, Mazowe, Zimbabwe

Influence of vermicomposted soil amendments on plant growth and dry matter partitioning in seedling production

The present experiment was undertaken to evaluate the effects of different vermicompost substitut... more The present experiment was undertaken to evaluate the effects of different vermicompost substitutions for vlei soil in seedling nursery production. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) seeds were planted in five treatment groups including without vermicompost, 25% vermicompost, 50% vermicompost, 75% vermicompost and 100% vermicompost. Vlei soils were incorporated into the experiment making up the different supplements. There was significant (P<0.05) influence of vermicompost amendments. Tallest seedlings were recorded from V50%(13.2cm) and V75%(12.6cm) and means from treatments V25%, V50% and V75% were significantly higher than treatment V0%. Treatment V100% recorded the highest number of leaves(5.88). Highest root fresh weight was recorded from V50%(2.16g). All treatments revealed a significant difference amongst the treatments with V50% having the highest shoot dry weight of 2.22g. The means...

Effect of Bio Priming Seeds with Microbial Based Bio Fertilizers on Growth of Maize Seedlings

The world over agriculture is being threatened by adverse effects of climate change. For that rea... more The world over agriculture is being threatened by adverse effects of climate change. For that reason, Sub-Saharan Africa needs to intensify agricultural production to feed her growing population adequately in a sustainable manner by the exploitation of beneficial microbes as a bio fertilizer for food security, food safety and sustainable crop production. The study aimed to assess the effects of bio priming with Trichoderma and Bacillus based-bio fertilizers on maize plant characteristics. A pot experiment was conducted for each bio fertilizer. The soaking treatments for the bio fertilizers were applied to the seeds as follows: Trt1 = 0 hours, Trt2 = 8 hours, Trt3 = 16 hours, Trt4 = 24 hours, and Trt5 = Control. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. The effect of soaking was significant (P<0.05) for the parameters (plant height, root length, fresh weight, dry weight) investigated. Number of leaves was only significant (P<0.05) ...