Pre Extension Demonstration and Evaluation of Improved Maize Varieties in Meskan District,Gurage Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

The largest producer of maize in Africa is Ethiopia. Increased accessibility and utilization of modern inputs (such as hybrid seeds and artificial fertilizers), more effective agricultural extension, and rising consumer demands are all significant contributors to the increasing productivity in the country. Technology demonstration and evaluation played an important role in expanding fertilizers and improved seeds (recently released variety) and basic agronomic packages. Several maize varieties are released by many research centers, but those varieties does not fully reach to farmers because of the weak relationships between researchers, extension agents, and farmers. Demonstrating technology on farmers' fields is the best technique to link farmers, extension agents and researchers finally improve technology adoption and increase the production and productivity of maize. Three improved maize varieties:- BH-546, BH-549, and Shone which BH-546 as a commercial check were included in the full technological packages of maize used for on-farm demonstration.   Training and consultative meetings were conducted to capacitate farmers and experts.Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected. Finally data from different sources were triangulated to get reliable information. The maximum yield (74 kg/ha) was obtained from BH-549 variety, whereas the minimum grain yield was obtained from shone hybrids. The results, in general show existence of Yield difference among varieties.  Accordingly; BH 549 had yield advantage of 3.65% and 24% over BH 545 and Shone; respectively. Application of full package and organizing via clusters has great advantage for farmers to improve productivity and share resources. Overall the varieties are  well  accepted  and  suggested  to  widely  promote  and  make  farmers  beneficial  through  the concerned office of Agriculture.

Keywords: Demonstration, improved maize varieties,

DOI: 10.7176/JBAH/13-9-02

Publication date:June 30^th 2023