Influence of soil fertility management on Striga seed bank dynamics and grain yield of sorghum in semi arid areas

Abstract

The parasitic weed Striga poses a serious threat to cereal production in sub-Saharan Africa. Infestation usually results in significant yield losses, quite often over 70%. Many control options have been reported but, the effect of soil fertility management on Striga seed production is not well known. Understanding Striga seed production is one of the key elements to management of this weed in Africa. Field experiments in two growing season will be conducted to determine the growth, Striga seed production and sorghum grain yield treated with different rate and source of organic and inorganic materials. The treatments will include farmyard, chicken manures, urea and triple superphosphate.