On-farm Demonstration and Evaluation of Improved Variety of Black Cumin in Gemechis, Habro and Tulo Districts of West Hararghe Zone

Abstract

The experiment was carried out in Habro, Gemechis and Tulo districts of West Hararghe Zone with the objectives of evaluating improved varieties of black cumin under farmers` field condition and to create awareness and skill of production and management of the improved black cumin variety. Four kebeles were selected purposively based on black cumin production potential, two kebeles from Gemechis and the other two were selected from Habro and Tullo districst. Seven farmers and two Farmers Training Centre were included depending on their interest to the technology, managing the experiment, have appropriate land for the experiment and taking the risk at the time of failures. Two improved varieties Eden and Dirshaye with local check were demonstrated and evaluated. The experiment was demonstrated on 50m² demonstration plots and NPS 40kg/ha -with Urea (50kg at the time of sowing and at growing stage) were applied to one demonstration plot. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected through observation, feedback from farmers and data recording sheet. Descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis and ANOVAs -test was used to analyze collected data. While qualitative data were analysed through simple ranking and summarization. The result of the study indicated that Dirshaye was ranked first in terms of high branch, high plant height, large pod size, high pod per plant, high yield, drought tolerant and insect resistance. Dirshaye variety has more economic advantage than local variety at the study area. Thus, Dirshaye were recommended for further popularization and scaling up in study area and similar agro ecology.

Keywords: Black cumin, Varieties, demonstration, insect resistance, yield

DOI: 10.7176/JNSR/11-19-04

Publication date:October 31^st 2020