Faculty of Agricultural Sciences

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A Genetic Analysis of Solanum aethiopicum Gilo Genotypes for Germination and Seedling Growth
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-20) Birungi Shamim
Despite the significance of S. aethiopicum Gilo. Limited data on genetic variation influencing germination and seedling growth in Solanum aethiopicum Gilo constrain breeding programs for crop yield and quality improvement. This study investigated Genetic variation and Inheritance of germination and seedling growth in S. aethiopicum Gilo, with G3, G11, and their F1 hybrid (G3 × G11). A completely randomized design was employed to evaluate germination percentage, cotyledon size, and seedling vigor among others. Findings showed significant differences (p < 0.005) among genotypes for all the traits. The hybrid (G3 × G11) showed the highest germination percentage (60.08%) and germination velocity index (9.85), while G11 had the lowest in both. G11 exhibited the longest mean germination time (7.71 days), whereas the hybrid had the shortest (6.30 days). G3 generally had the highest cotyledon height, width, and seedling height, while G11 had the lowest. Seedling vigor, leaf length, and leaf width were highest in the hybrid and lowest in G3. The hybrid also had the highest number of leaves compared to G3. Inheritance analysis revealed Broad Sense Heritability with additive gene above (70-90%) contributing to early seedling traits, and non-additive of (20-40%) effects on germination. These findings of the study concur with studies done in S. lycopersicum and S. melongena where hybrid vigor and polygenes control early development. More molecular research should be conducted to identify markers related to seedling vigor, hence accelerating genetic enhancement of this underutilized crop.
Accessing coffee banana integration on household food security
(2025-05-21) Mpungu Isaac
Assessing the Effect of Agricultural Practices on Vegetable Production in Home Gardens in Urban Areas: A Case Study of Mukono Municipality.
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-16) Bikay Bya Nguba Joyce
In response to rapid urbanization and its related challenges such as land unavailability and food security concerns, urban residents have increasingly turned to home-side gardening as a strategy to strengthen food security and generate supplementary income. This study explored the influence of agricultural practices on vegetable production within urban home gardens in Mukono Municipality, Uganda. The study investigated the impact of socioeconomic factors on vegetable production, categorized the agronomic practices in use, and assessed their effects on household food security. Employing a descriptive research design, data were collected from 100 randomly selected households operating home gardens between January and March 2025. Multiple regression analyses using SPSS were employed to clarify the relationships among the key variables. The study revealed that garden size and the type of vegetables grown were the most significant predictors of productivity (R² = 0.709), with exotic varieties bringing considerably higher yields than indigenous ones even though 62% of respondents showed a preference for indigenous vegetables. The research also highlighted a strong adherence to traditional practices, with 90% of participants using local seeds and manual harvesting techniques, and 63% favoring organic fertilizers. Additionally, five essential agronomic practices—nutrient management (B = 3.842, p = 0.003), planting method (B = 3.318, p = 0.008), pest management (B = 2.752, p = 0.012), watering practices (B = 2.152, p = 0.021), and spacing (B = 1.954, p = 0.036)—were identified as significant influences on production outcomes. The food security analysis demonstrated that home gardens contributed approximately 20-28% of recommended daily vegetable intake, with 83% of households achieving moderate to high food security through gardening. For commercial producers, garden-generated income covered 25-40% of household food expenses, enhancing economic food access. This research highlights the importance of home gardens in urban food systems and provides evidence-based recommendations for agricultural extension services to enhance vegetable production in urban settings.
Assessing the Effect of Tebucunazole on Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium verticillioides Growth in Maize Seeds in Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-19) Mutambi Ritah
Tebuconazole, a triazole fungicide is used for effective control of the fungal pathogens in other crops. Little information regarding the use of tebuconazole fungicide is known. Therefore, this study aims at evaluating the effect of tebuconazole on growth of A. flavus and F. verticillioides in maize seeds. Completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications was used to determine fungal growth and changes in physical traits of maize seeds and the germination rate. Data was collected on fungal growth (colonies, capping, and abnormal seeds) and seedling growth. The results showed that was a significant difference (p< 0.004) among the tebuconazole concentrations on the fungal growth, physical traits and germination rate of maize seeds. The high dose had the highest normal seeds (72.65 ± 16.14a) with the lowest number of abnormal seeds (23.47 ± 15.14c) and capping (5.13 ± 8.45ab) while Control had the lowest number normal seeds (50.57 ± 28.33c) with highest number of abnormal seeds (44.40 ± 27.57a) and capping (7.94 ± 8.04a). White fungal colonies were present in 100% of the samples across all treatments, high dose was the most effective in reducing presence of yellow, green, grey and brown fungal colonies. The highest germination percentage (96.67 ± 4.880c) was recorded in the control while the recommended dose had the lowest germination percentage (63.33 ± 9.759a). Since, the recommended dose (0.5ml) of tebuconazole effectively controlled the fungus, it is the most effective dosage for controlling of A. flavus and F. verticillioides in maize seeds.
Assessing the Effect of Vermi-Liquid Fertilizer Rate on the Growth and Yield of Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum)
(Ugandan Christian University, 2025-04-16) Olupot Martin
Vermiliquid is an organic currently fertilizer being adopted to improve crop production. However, there is no information on the use of vermiliquid in tomato production. This study investigated the effect of vermi-liquid fertilizer on growth and yield of tomatoes. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used with 3 replicates. Four treatments were used: 0%, 10%, 20% and 50%. The data was collected on the plant height, stem girth, number of leaves, number of branches number of flower clusters, and the number of flowers of tomatoes. The results showed that there was a significant difference (p<.001) in different vermiliquid concentrations on plant height, leaf number, stem girth, number of branches, and number of flowers(p<0.017). A concentration of 50% vermiliquid showed the highest height (38.07±25.43c), and 0% concentration showed the lowest height (23.08±15.48a). Leaf number increased on 50% concentration showing the highest (14.74±8.99d) and 0% concentration having the lowest(6.90±3.88a). A 50% concentration showed a bigger stem girth (0.81±0.38d) while a 0% concentration had the smallest stem girth(0.38±0.15a). Increased branching (3.42±4.21c) was observed when 50 % concentration was applied and 0% concentration had the least effect (1.40±2.15a). A concentration of 20% had the highest mean number of flowers (6.533±9.68b) and 0% had the least number of flowers(3.067±4.49a). This implies that 50% vermiliquid concentration is the optimum concentration for tomato growth and 20% vermiliquid concentration is optimum for tomato flowering Vermiliquid fertilizers are the best alternative which is sustainable and cost-effective for improved tomato production in Uganda.
ASSESSING THE EFFECT OF VERMILIQUID RATE ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF TOMATOES (solanum lycoperscum)IN MUKONO DISTRICT
(Uganda christian University, 2025-04-16) OLUPOT MARTIN
Vermiliquid is an organic currently fertilizer being adopted to improve crop production. However, there is no information on the use of vermiliquid in tomato production. This study investigated the effect of vermi-liquid fertilizer on growth and yield of tomatoes. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used with 3 replicates. Four treatments were used: 0%, 10%, 20% and 50%. The data was collected on the plant height, stem girth, number of leaves, number of branches number of flower clusters, and the number of flowers of tomatoes. The results showed that there was a significant difference (p<.001) in different vermiliquid concentrations on plant height, leaf number, stem girth, number of branches, and number of flowers(p<0.017). A concentration of 50% vermiliquid showed the highest height (38.07±25.43c), and 0% concentration showed the lowest height (23.08±15.48a). Leaf number increased on 50% concentration showing the highest (14.74±8.99d) and 0% concentration having the lowest(6.90±3.88a). A 50% concentration showed a bigger stem girth (0.81±0.38d) while a 0% concentration had the smallest stem girth(0.38±0.15a). Increased branching (3.42±4.21c) was observed when 50 % concentration was applied and 0% concentration had the least effect (1.40±2.15a). A concentration of 20% had the highest mean number of flowers (6.533±9.68b) and 0% had the least number of flowers(3.067±4.49a). This implies that 50% vermiliquid concentration is the optimum concentration for tomato growth and 20% vermiliquid concentration is optimum for tomato flowering Vermiliquid fertilizers are the best alternative which is sustainable and cost-effective for improved tomato production in Uganda.
Assessing the Effectiveness of African Basil (Ocimum gratissimum) in Controlling Glow Worms (Lampyridae Notiluca) in Malakwang (Hibiscus spp).
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-19) Driliga Moses
This study investigates the effectiveness of African basil (Ocimum gratissimum) in controlling glow worms (Lampyridae notiluca) in Malakwang (Hibiscus spp) cultivation in Uganda. Glow worms, among other pests, cause significant yield losses. Given current concerns over chemical pesticide resistance and environmental risks, this study assessed the potential of botanical extracts as a pest management option. African basil bioactive properties, especially the eugenol that demonstrated pesticidal and repellent potential, were evaluated. Field experiment was conducted to assess the efficacy and optimal concentration of African basil extract in the control of glow worm infestation in Malakwang. Glow worm incidence and severity of infestation on Malakwang was evaluated. The research findings indicated that African basil extract significantly reduced pest activity at p-value <0.0001 and significance level 0.001. The extract concentration that resulted in the highest reduction in glow worm incidence was 50% concentration. Repeated trials to validate these results are required in order to promote this sustainable option in the management of glow worm infestation on Malakwang. Key words Effectiveness, African basil extract, Glow worm, Infestation, Malakwang, sustainable insect pest management.
Assessing the Efficacy of Chorax 72% Fungicide in the Management of Late Blight (Phytophthora infestans) Disease on Tomatoes
(Uganda Christian University., 2025-04-16) Othieno Capher
Emergency of fungal diseases can be controlled using chorax72% fungicide however, there is limited information on its effectiveness under Uganda's unique environment. This study evaluated the effectiveness of chorax72% fungicide in controlling late blight disease and its effect on yield of tomatoes. The research was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The different treatments dosages of Chorax 72% included the recommended (37.5g/10L of water), 25% higher (46.9g/10L) and 25% lower (28.1g/10L), a reference fungicide (mancozeb at 25g/10L) and untreated control. Data was collected on severity, incidence and tomato yield including fruit yield weight and marketable fruits. The results showed that there was significant difference(p<0.001) among the dosages of chorax72% on the disease severity and incidence. There was also significant effect of Chorax 72% on yield weight (p=0.015) and marketable fruits (p=0.012) of tomatoes. The 25% higher dosage of Chorax 72% showed the lowest disease severity and incidence (1.54 ± 0.60a and 0.20 ± 0.12a respectively) while the untreated control had the highest severity and incidence with 2.97 ± 0.74d and 0.91±0.11d respectively. The recommended dosage produced the highest fruit weight (2574g) and zero treatment had the lowest fruit weight (872g), both the recommended and 25% higher doses resulted in the highest number of marketable fruits(33.0fruits) compared to zero treatment (8.0fruits). This implies that the recommended (37.5g/10L) and 25% higher dosages (46.9g/10l) of Chorax 72% inhibits the pathogen growth on tomatoes leading to increased crop yield. Therefore, the recommended dosage (37.5g/10L) of chorax72% fungicide is recommended for controlling late blight disease in tomatoes in Uganda.
Determining the Comparative Effectiveness of Chemical Method and Mechanical Methods of Breaking Seed Dormancy in Solanum aethiopicum
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-19) Tuhirirwe Jenipher
Dormancy of seeds in solanum aethiopicum groups thus gilo and shum, hinders uniform germination. This leads to disturbances in the harvesting schedules and the overall yields. This study evaluated the effectiveness of chemical methods (Gibberellic acid, potassium nitrate), and mechanical methods (hot water and mechanical scarification) in breaking seed dormancy in these varieties (shum and gilo). Gibberellic acid is a plant hormone based chemical, which is responsible for plant cell elongation and combating the effects of ABA. Potassium nitrate is a nutrient based chemical containing potassium and nitrates essential for plant growth. The seeds of various accessions of shum and gilo were presoaked in different concentrations of Gibberellic acid (GA3) and, potassium nitrate (KNO3) i.e. GA3 (500mg/l, 300mg/l,700mg/l) and KNO3 (0.25%,0.75%,1.0%) for 24 hours. Hot water treatment, the seeds were treated with water heated up to 80 °C for 5 minutes and mechanical scarification, seeds were scratched with sand paper carefully and then rinsed. The sowing of seeds were followed, where they were sown in petridishes lined with wet cotton wool and arranged in a 4X3 factorial experiment using CRD design. The outcomes indicated that when treatments compared, Gibberellic acid 500mg/l with 92.5% germination and mechanical scarification with 70% germination are the effective treatments for breaking seed dormancy in shum, while gilo responds same way to mechanical scarification and hot water treatment. While comparing the effectiveness of chemical and mechanical methods in breaking seed dormancy in shum and gilo, the chemical treatments outperformed the mechanical treatments more especially in shum with 58.2% germination and MGT (3.9 versus 8.3) and higher germination percentage (58.2% versus 46.0%). For gilo variety however, mechanical methods resulted into higher GP (34.8 versus 23.4) but indicated similar GVI and slower MGT (8.3). When comparisons are made within the treatments, GA 500mg/l significantly increased germination percentage in shum with 82.89% mean GP compared to gilo that indicated 39.37% mean Gp. Mechanical scarification also improved germination significantly with 70% mean GP in shum compared to hot water that resulted in no significant difference between hot water and mechanical scarification. Moreover, shum exhibited a significantly lower mean germination time with 3.2 days compared to KNO and distilled water. Therefore, null hypothesis one was rejected as the results show significant differences (p<0.001) in effects of chemical treatments on seed performance in both shum and gilo with GA 500mg/l being the best and reject the second null hypothesis as mechanical methods indicated significant differences in the effects of hot water and mechanical scarification on germination parameters with p<0.001.
Effect of Different Pre-storage Treatment on the Shelf Life of Selected Genotypes of Solanum aethiopicum (Gilo) Fruits
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-16) Ocowun Ronald
The research examined the effects of different pre-storage treatments on the shelf life of selected genotypes of Solanum aethiopicum Gilo fruits under different storage condition. Additionally, this research focused majorly on hydrogen peroxide (3%), vinegar (5%) and lemon juice (3%), then comparing the treatments to untreated Gilo fruits controls. The main reason for this study was to evaluate the spoilage rates through visual assessment and to qualify quality attributes including color, firmness and weight loss over storage period of 14 days. Data was then collected on spoilage rate measured after every two days and the results indicates a significant increase in spoilage rate for untreated Gilo fruits, peaking at 100% by the end of the storage period (14 days). On the other hand, hydrogen peroxide treatment shown to be the most active treatment presenting a gradual spoilage increase peaking at 50% on the 14th day of the storage period. Vinegar and lemon juice treatments showed moderate effectiveness, decreasing spoilage rates to 65% and 80% respectively Furthermore, quality assessments confirmed that Hydrogen peroxide treated Gilo fruits experienced the least color change, and firmness values indicated that both hydrogen peroxide and vinegar treatments preserved firmer textures compared to untreated fruits. Additionally, appropriate weight loss calculations reinforced these results, with untreated fruits displaying complete weight loss by the end of the storage period which was 14 days, while the treated fruits presented significantly lower weight loss percentages. The research also established that, pre-storage treatments considerably extend shelf life and also improve quality, confirming both hypotheses. The study also aligns with the previous literature emphasizing the role of organic acids in preserving postharvest quality. The study results prompt recommendations for the farmers to prioritize hydrogen peroxide treatments, as a pre-storage treatment for extending shelf life of their Solanum aethiopicum Gilo fruits. Furthermore, farmers and traders of Solanum aethiopicum Gilo fruits should use perforated storage structures to improve fruits preservation during the storage period. It is also proposed that further study to explore ideal concentrations of treatments, consumer safety considerations as well as cost-effectiveness be under taken. Lastly, efficient use of pre-storage treatments, especially hydrogen peroxide, shows a practical method for enhancing postharvest quality of Solanum aethiopicum (Gilo) fruits, eventually benefiting farmers and consumers considerably. This study contributes valuable understandings into postharvest management of Gilo fruits and has implications aimed at broader agricultural practices meant for reducing food waste and improving food security by effective postharvest handling approaches. Through applying these recommendations and understandings, the consequences can lead to better sustainability and economic viability for farmers participating in growing S. aethiopicum Gilo fruits. Additional exploration into synergistic effects of various treatments and their application in real world agricultural contexts will offer further avenues for enhancing postharvest life of other perishable crops, hence contributing to broader efforts in minimizing food loss and enhancing food security all over the world.
Effects of Different Forms of Nitrogen in Dilute Sea Salt on the Germination and Growth, of Vigna unguiculata L. Walp in a Hydroponic System
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-04-11) Lillian Muzaki
Hydroponic growth systems are a convenient platform for studying whole plant physiology. Major yield loss in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) can be attributed to biotic and abiotic stresses. A cost effective and time saving screening protocol for cowpea abiotic stresses will enhance and expedite research on cowpea by breeders thereby enhancing its production and availability to meet increasing demand and population rise. Different crops have different forms of nitrogen they prefer, different crops grow differently in salt media which has trace elements needed by plants for growth, but because of associated salinity issues, different crops show different results. In this study, the effect of different forms of nitrogen in dilute sea salt on the germination and growth Vigna unguiculata L. Walp (cowpea) in a deepwater hydroponic system was studied. Data on germination and growth was entered in MS Excel, cleaned and exported in Gensart 12, analyzed, means, standard deviation, coefficient of variation were generated. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was calculated and significaly mean values were compared using Ducan multiple range test at 5% significancy level. Plants in nutrient solution with nitrates and free nitrogen ions in sea salt showed better results of germination and growth than crops grown in nutrient solution without sea salt and the worst results were present by nutrient solution with ammonia as a form of nitrogen in sea salt. These results indicate that addition of sea salt (10% dilution) in nutrient solutions and using nitrogen forms nitrate and free ions affect positively the germination and growth of cowpea.
Efficacy Assessment of Garlic Extract and Rabbit Urine as a Natural Aphid Control Agent on Infested Tomato Plants
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-20) Isooba David Beckham
This experiment aimed to assess the effectiveness of garlic extract and rabbit urine concoction as a natural aphid control agent on infested tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum). The study investigated the impact of different doses of garlic extract on plant height, leaf damage, Number of aphids and Number of flowers at the flowering stage. The garlic extract was prepared by crushing garlic bulbs and sieved to achieve the desired concentrations after mixing it with the desired concentrations of rabbit urine. The experiment employed a randomized complete block design with four treatment groups each replicated three times: a control group (0%), low dose (10%), medium dose (30%), and high dose (50%) of the mixture concentration of rabbit urine and garlic extract concoction. The treatments were applied using a handheld sprayer, and the plants were monitored for aphid populations using visual inspection. Data collected were subjected to statistical analysis, including analysis of variance (ANOVA), to determine significant differences between treatments. The results revealed that higher doses of garlic extract and rabbit Urine concoction led to increased plant height, decrease in leaf damage caused by aphids, , and reduced number of aphids as well as increased number of flowers. The control group exhibited the lowest values for all parameters, while treatments with garlic extract and rabbit urine concoction showed significant improvements. The highest yields were observed in Treatment 50%, where plants treated with the highest dose of garlic extract and rabbit urine concoction had the highest plantt height, least number leaves damaged by aphids and highest number of flowers at flowering stage. These findings demonstrate the potential of garlic extract and rabbit urine concoction as an effective aphid control agent, capable of enhancing tomato crop health and growth and economic returns for farmers.
Evaluating Adoption Rate of Climate Smart Agriculture and Its Effectiveness on Income Levels Among Smallholder Farmers: A Case Study in Zone II of Bidibidi Settlement, Yumbe District
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-07) Hilary Abugo Santo
Climate change is a threat to agriculture productivity and the environment. Climate smart Agriculture (CSA) is an appropriate adaptation approach to climate change. It allows farmers to improve their production and livelihood despite the conditions of climate change. This study was set up to evaluate the adoption rate of CSA and its effectiveness on income levels among smallholder farmers: a case study in zone II of Bidibidi settlement, Yumbe district. Following threat to environment by nationals and also the agricultural activities by refugees in search of settlement, the local government and NGOs have promoted CSA in recent years to solve these challenges and climate change. However, the effects of these practices on income levels of smallholder farmers have not been studied and documented. This study targeted 68 farmers who are beneficiaries CSA training by an NGO. Data was collected on CSA practices commonly practiced, demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of farmers to determine factors influencing adoption of CSA practices as well as data on income from crop sales from previous season. Data was analysed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics was used for CSA practices adopted by farmers, factors influencing adoption of CSA practices were analysed using binary logistic regression and Pearson 2tailed correlation, multilinear regression were used to analyse the relationship between adoption of CSA and income. The study results indicated that 100% of famers adopted row planting, 97.1% early planting and 88.2% use drought resistant crop, membership in farmers’ group significantly boost the likelihood of intercropping, mulching, block farming, early planting, crop rotation and drought resistant crop varieties while firm size and employment influence adoption of agroforestry and access to extension negatively influence the adoption of some CSA practice. The study result found out that there is a positive moderate correlation between adoption of CSA practices and income from crop sales (Pearson’s r= 0.0368) significant(p=0.002) meaning CSA practices increases income of farmers. There is need of more efforts to enhance adoption of less adopted CSA practices such irrigation, agroforestry and conservation tillage.
Evaluating the Effect of Excessive Water Stress on Different Genotypes of Solanum aethiopicum (Shum)
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-19) Atuhaire Ruth
This study evaluated the physiological and morphological responses of Solanum aethiopicum Shum genotypes (E11, E15, and E16) to excessive moisture stress. The objective was to assess tolerance traits under excessive water stress conditions. Physiological parameters included light transmittance, reflectance, absorbance, fresh weight, dry weight, water content and chlorophyll content (Chlorophyll-a and Chlorophyll-b), while morphological traits such as stem diameter, plant height, leaf dimensions, petiole length, and wilt scores were analyzed. Significant differences were observed in physiological responses. The control and E16 genotypes maintained higher light absorbance (2.9%) and Chlorophyll-a content (31.4 µg mg⁻¹), indicating greater stress tolerance. In contrast, E11 and E15 showed reduced absorbance and chlorophyll levels, suggesting susceptibility to oxidative damage. Morphological traits further revealed marked variability. The control genotype exhibited superior stem diameter (8.8 cm), plant height (21.1 cm), and leaf area (264.0 cm²), alongside zero wilt scores, highlighting its resilience under stress. Conversely, E11 and E16 showed reduced growth metrics and higher wilt scores, indicating greater vulnerability to moisture stress. These findings underscore the potential of tolerant genotypes, such as the control and E16, for breeding programs aimed at improving resilience to excessive moisture conditions. The results also contribute valuable insights into genotype-specific adaptations, which can inform future strategies for cultivating Solanum aethiopicum Shum under abiotic stress. Further research is recommended to explore the genetic and biochemical mechanisms underlying these responses.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Botanical Insecticide Mixture of Cymbopogon citratus and Azadirachta indica Against Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) on Maize (Zea mays)
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-27) Abote Patricia Peace
In Uganda, maize is a crucial staple and cash crop for smallholder farmers; however, its production is currently under serious threat from fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda). The heavy reliance on synthetic insecticides has raised concerns regarding environmental pollution, risks to human health, pest resistance, and adverse effects on beneficial organisms. This study examined a plant-based alternative using a botanical insecticide mixture of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) and neem (Azadirachta indica). Field trials were conducted from December 2024 to April 2025 at Uganda Christian University, Mukono, utilizing a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and the optimal concentration of the mixture of lemongrass and neem leaf required to achieve significant control against fall armyworm on maize. Treatments included 10%, 30%, and 50% concentrations where 10ml(5ml+5ml),30ml(15ml+15ml), and 50ml(25ml+25ml)) respectively for each. Data was collected on plant height, leaf area, number of leaves per plant, number of damaged leaves per plant, leaf injury index, and whorl damage. Results indicated that lemongrass and neem were significantly effective in controlling fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), and 50% was the optimal concentration, with a p-value of <0.001. Treated maize plants recorded a reduction in the mean of damaged leaves (1.72,0.74), injury index (1.64,0.79), and whorl damage (2.32,1.36) respectively than the control (4.68), (3.48), (4.98) respectively. Repeated trials with this botanical mixture in at least three growing seasons under field conditions could further validate the current results.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Tithonia Extract as Supplement to NPK17։17։17 on Growth and Yield of Spinah (Spinacia oleracea) in Hydroponics Systems
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-09) Daniel Mulengetsi Mishona
This research evaluated Tithonian diversifolia extract effectiveness as additive fertilizer on spinach Spinacia oleracea) growth and yield in hydroponic culture.A completely randomized design (CRD), Used six treatments, control (NPK19) and five treatments of NPK17։17։17 with different concentrations of Tithonian extract 50-250ml per 14l Results showed that 250 ml Tithonian extract T6 significantly outranks aligns with research, with 260 % more fresh weight (274.67g) compared to the control. This excellent performance is compared to reading Jama et al. (2000), whose Tithonian biomass contents are presented as high in nutrients (3.5% N, 0.37% P, 4.1% K). At week three, T6 had larger leaf area (107.83cm²), higher growth (20.71cm) and longer and more leaves (6.87) compared to the control treatments. As Partey et al. (2018) predicted, bioactive substance in Tithonian was likely the cause of heightened growth. The results confirm that Tithonian foliar extract at 250 ml /14l can be utilized for complementing NPK17 fertilizer, provide an eco-friendly option that can help minimize excessive dependence on expensive synthetic fertilizers while confirming Kafle et al.'s (2019) through his finding that combination can perform better than synthetic fertilizer alone. Recommendations for use OF the findings determine that Tithonian foliar extract at 250 ml /14l supplemented NPK17 fertilizer respectively were determined. Keywords: Hydroponics, Tithonian diversifolia,NPK17։17։17, Spinacia oleracea).
Evaluating the effects of different livestock manures on the growth and yield of solanum aethiopicum shum
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-19) Kiki Alfred Louis
An experiment was conducted from December 2024 to April 2025 at Uganda Christian university demonstration field in Mukono district to evaluate the effects of different livestock manures (goat, pig and poultry) on the growth and yield of Solanum aethiopicum Shum. It aimed to identify the most effective organic manures for sustainable agricultural practices. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) trial with four treatments and three replications, and the UCU Nakati 3 variety was used. The recommended doses of each livestock manure (goat manure at 20t/ha, pig manure at 20t/ha, and goat manure at 20t/ha) was applied to each treatment. Significant differences were observed between treatments, growth parameters as well as in yield parameters at harvest. Furthermore, the results showed that the highest yield (234.25 ± 89.35cm2) was obtained from treatment with poultry manure across all the yield parameters, followed by goat manure (184.28 ± 82.34cm2), pig manure (172.66 ± 65.04cm2) and finally the control (73.72 ± 45.06cm2). A similar trend was observed in the growth parameters. These results concur with earlier studies that reported that the application of poultry manure and goat manure increased growth and yield. Key words: Livestock Manure, Solanum aethiopicum Shum (Nakati), Growth and Yield.
Evaluating the Effects of Different Livestock Manures on the Growth and Yield of Solanum aethiopicum Shum
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-22) KIKI ALFRED LOUIS
An experiment was conducted from December 2024 to April 2025 at Uganda Christian university demonstration field in Mukono district to evaluate the effects of different livestock manures (goat, pig and poultry) on the growth and yield of Solanum aethiopicum Shum. It aimed to identify the most effective organic manures for sustainable agricultural practices. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) trial with four treatments and three replications, and the UCU Nakati 3 variety was used. The recommended doses of each livestock manure (goat manure at 20t/ha, pig manure at 20t/ha, and goat manure at 20t/ha) was applied to each treatment. Significant differences were observed between treatments, growth parameters as well as in yield parameters at harvest. Furthermore, the results showed that the highest yield (234.25 ± 89.35cm2) was obtained from treatment with poultry manure across all the yield parameters, followed by goat manure (184.28 ± 82.34cm2), pig manure (172.66 ± 65.04cm2) and finally the control (73.72 ± 45.06cm2). A similar trend was observed in the growth parameters. These results concur with earlier studies that reported that the application of poultry manure and goat manure increased growth and yield. Key words: Livestock Manure, Solanum aethiopicum Shum (Nakati), Growth and Yield
Evaluating the Efficacy of Cassava Flour and Tephrosia vogelii Mixture in Controlling Aphids in Kale
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-16) Baida Charles
Tephrosia vogelii and Cassava flour are natural and locally available potential alternative for pest control however little is known about the usage of T.vogelii and cassava flour in managing aphids in aphids. This research seeks to evaluate the efficacy of Tephrosia vogelii’s extract and cassava flour mixture in regulatory aphids in kale. The study used RCBD with 3 replications. The measured concentrations (0g, 70g, 140g and 210g) were assigned randomly. Data collected include counting the number of aphids before and after treatment, leaf damage, and the height of the plant, leaves among others. Results showed the key difference (<.001) among different mixture of T.vogelii and cassava flour in controlling aphids’ population on Kale. Where 0g was applied, highest number of live aphids of 18.09 ± 11.04a was recorded while the concentration (210g) had the lowest number of live aphids of 7.38 ± 7.99d. Highest leaf damage of 3.44±1.57a was observed in zero treatment (0g) while lowest damage was recorded in treatment (210g) of 1.87±0.83c. Kale treated with 210g of T.vogelii and cassava flour mixture had the highest aphid mortality rate of 4.66±5.15a while 0g had no mortality. The plant growth parameters with 0g had showed the lowest plant height of 11.58±4.97d while 210g had the highest plant height of 17.49±6.30a. The research findings have noted that 210g had insecticidal properties that were effective not just in killing aphids but also in reducing their impact on the kale plant.
Evaluating the Phenotypic and Physiological Traits Associated With Drought in Selected Genotypes of Solanum aethiopicum Gilo
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-21) Taban Atto Rachel
This study evaluated phenotypic and physiological traits associated with drought stress in nine genotypes of Solanum aethiopicum gilo to identify drought-tolerant genotypes. Using a split-plot design under controlled conditions, plants were subjected to drought stress (20% field capacity) and well-watered conditions (80% field capacity). Significant genotypic variation was observed in response to drought, with substantial treatment effects on all measured parameters. While drought significantly reduced plant height (16.1%), leaf area (27.7%), and stem girth (16.3%), it remarkably increased chlorophyll content (28.6%). Genotypes G1, G7, and G8 demonstrated superior drought tolerance, maintaining higher relative water content (>22%), better biomass retention, and lower wilting scores compared to susceptible genotypes. G8 showed the lowest wilting score (1.556) and G1 exhibited the highest chlorophyll enhancement (47.7%). These findings support the hypothesis of significant physiological differences between droughttolerant and susceptible genotypes, providing valuable germplasm resources for breeding resilient varieties suitable for drought-prone regions.

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