INVESTIGATION OF RESPONSE OF AMARANTHS (Amaranthus hybridus) VARIETIES TO DIFFERENT RATES OF COCONUT MILK FOLIAR APPLICATION

Abstract

Abstract The effect of coconut milk on the development of vegetable amaranths was tested at the college farm of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Bichi, during dry seasons. The research was aimed at harnessing the potentials of the coconut milk as a constituent of some phytohormones, such as; zeatin and cytokinin, required in identifying responsive growth rates and productivity of the vegetable amaranths. The treatments consisted of two varieties of amaranths (Improved and local), with five rates of coconut milk (0, 15, 30, 45 and 60%). These were factorially combined and laid out in a randomized complete block design with ten treatment combinations. This was replicated three times. Data was collected on the plant height, number of leaves per plant, number of branches per plant, total fresh weight, total dry matter and marketable yield. The data were subjected to analysis of variance. Significantly, different means were ranked using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Results of the study showed that Coconut milk had significant influence on all the characters tested with 15% foliar application producing plants with more desirable traits. Similarly, the improved variety always surpassed the local variety in vegetable output and other desirable traits. In view of this therefore, the potentials of coconut milk application of 15% in amaranths for improved productivity. More research is thus advocated in more leafy vegetables with a view to optimize the usefulness of this important commodity in crop production.

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