Evaluating Water Requirements and Stress Effects on Sweet Corn (Zea mays saccharata) Cultivated on Loamy Sand Soil

Abstract

Background: This study examines the impact of water stress on sweet corn (Zea mays saccharata) growth and yields in loamy sand soil, Ilorin. It aims to elucidate the relationship between water stress and crop performance while identifying optimal water requirements for enhancing sweet corn development in this soil type. Methods: The study employed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates, featuring four crop-environmental water demand (CEWD) treatments: 100%, 75%, 50% and 25% CEWD. Water application rates (90 litres per plot every 2 days) were calculated using 12 years of meteorological data (2011-2022) for Ilorin, based on FAO crop water needs and daily evapotranspiration. Sweet corn seeds (Ex-IITA) were planted at 75 cm by 25 cm spacing. Key parameters measured included plant height, leaf count, leaf area index, biomass, days to 50% flowering, grain count and yield. Statistical analysis was conducted using Genstat 17th edition. Result: Increased soil moisture significantly impacted plant development, with notable variations in growth rates across the four treatments. Sweet corn grain yield followed the order: 75% greater than 100% greater than 50% greater than 25% CEWD. No significant differences were found in flowering dates or leaf count. Mean plant height ranged from 0.627 m to 0.975 m, correlating with water application rates. The 75% CEWD treatment resulted in the highest total dry matter content and leaf area index, explaining its superior yield. The 75% CEWD level is optimal for sweet corn cultivation in Ilorin, loamy sand soil, Nigeria, promoting sustainable agriculture.