Growth and yield of seven varieties of okra (<i>Abelmoschus esculentus</i> (L.) Moench) in Agbor, Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

A study was carried out in 2019 to evaluate seven varieties of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) for growth and yield at the Teaching and Research Farm, University of Delta, Agbor, Delta State. The varieties of okra used were: Local, NH/OK/M, NH/OK/N, NH/OK/Q, NH/OK/S, NH/OK/T and JOKOSO. The experiment was a randomized complete block design with four replicates. Data collected were Plant height, number of leaves/plant, total leaf area/plant, stem girth and fruit yield. Data obtained were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at 5% level of probability. The result obtained revealed that there were significant differences on the growth and yield characters among the seven varieties of okra. However, NH/OK/M (274.50cm) had the tallest plants while NH/OK/S (91.50cm) had the least. Although the local and JOKOSO varieties jointly produced the highest number of leaves/plant but was not significantly different from the other varieties. NH/OK/M had the highest total leaf area/plant (2359.00cm²) and thickest stems (1.89cm) while NH/OK/T and NH/OK/Q had the least values of 799.50cm² and 1.04cm, respectively. NH/OK/M and NH/OK/S were similar with the highest fruit yield (11.70 t/ha) while the local variety had the least (4.50 t/ha). In terms of growth and yield, NH/OK/M and NH/OK/S were found to be more suitable among the varieties evaluated in this zone. However, NH/OK/M and NH/OK/S are recommended for okra production in this locality.