Bachelor of Agricultural Science and Entrepreneurship-BBUC

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https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12311/2917

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The Effect of Organic Manure and Inorganic Fertilizer Application on Carrot Productivity
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-13) Seth Niwabiine
This study aimed to compare the effects of organic manure and inorganic fertilizer application on carrot yield, with a focus on determining which nutrient source provides better performance in terms of crop productivity and cost-effectiveness. The experiment was carried out using a field experiment under controlled plots having individual treatment of organic manure, inorganic fertilizers, and control without fertilizer application. Important traits under consideration were germination rate, length of the roots, diameter of the roots, total yield, and production expenses. The findings revealed that while inorganic fertilizers resulted in slightly higher yields due to their quick nutrient availability, organic manure significantly improved soil structure and sustained nutrient release, contributing to a more stable and environmentally friendly yield over time. Additionally, organic manure proved to be more cost-effective, especially when sourced locally, offering a viable alternative for resource-limited farmers. The study concluded that integrating organic manure into carrot production not only enhances long-term soil fertility but also provides comparable yield outcomes to inorganic fertilizers, making it a sustainable option for improved agricultural productivity.
Apple Farming and Economic Development of Smallholder Farmers in Kigezi Highlands: A case Study of Kabale District
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-04) Pretty Biryomumeisho
The study investigates the role of apple farming on the economic development of smallholder farmers in Kabale district in Kigezi region. With the increasing demand for apples both locally and internationally due to its health benefits for example, this research study aims at assessing how apples enhances smallholder farmers living standards, how apple contribute to the economy of farmers and the whole country, factors that influence the growth of apples and challenges that are faced by apple growers. Using a mixed-method approach, data was collected through interviews, questionnaire and surveys to apple farmers and extension officers of concerned subcounties that is kyanamira, kitumba and kamuganguzi. Findings revealed that apple farming boosts income levels, creates employment to people and empowers gender and that is women. Findings also showed that a number of factors influences apple growth and that is water availability, fertile soils, good and favorable climate, and agronomic practices determines and contributes much to apple production however there are challenges that affect apple farming such as pests and diseases, limited access to market, poor transportation and storage facilities, high input costs and lack of training and knowledge. The study concludes that farmers should form cooperatives to solve market access and high input costs problems and recommends government to improve on infrastructures to make transportation and marketing easy.
Assessing the Effect of Organic Manure and Artificial Fertilizers on the Productivity of Irish Potato (Solanum Tuberosum) Growth and Yield as Well as Profitability
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-09) Amos Ngabirano
The study was to assess the effect of organic manure and artificial fertilizers on the Productivity of Irish potato growth and yield. It was guided by the following study objectives: to determine the effect of different applications of organic manure and artificial fertilizers productivity of Irish potato growth and yields, and to determine the most profitable application of organic manure and synthetic fertilizers in potato production. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three treatments, each replicated two times. Plant height was recorded every 3 weeks starting from the third week after emergence. The number of shoots per plant was recorded at 10 weeks after emergence, and it also had a parameter to measure the growth rate. The number of tubers and the weight (yield) of tubers for a sample of three plants per plot were measured at maturity/harvest. ANOVA was used to compare the results of different treatments, conduct the variance analysis to identify relationships between variables, and use graphical representations like bar graphs to visualize the data. The findings revealed that applying organic manure and artificial fertilizers has a profound impact on both growth parameters measured— plant height and number of shoots. The findings revealed that as the rate of applying organic manure increases from Treatment 0 tons/ha to Treatment 5 tons/ha, the mean total weight of smaller-sized potato tubers generally tends to grow. The data points within each treatment group and the standard deviations also differ among the treatments, and applying more organic manure at greater rates could potentially increase the weight of smaller tubers. It was observed that there is variability in the weight of medium-sized potato tubers based on the application rates of organic manure. Treatments with higher application rates, such as Treatment of 10,15, and 20 tons/ha, showed an increase in the mean total weight, while treatments with lower application rates, like Treatment 5 tons/ha, exhibited a decrease in the mean total weight. The findings revealed that the mean total weight of potatoes varies across different application rates of organic manure. Treatments with higher application rates (10, 15, and 20) tones/ha generally showed higher mean total weights compared to lower application rates (0)tones/ha.However, treatment with organic manure shows a lower mean total weight compared to other treatments.
Optimizing Beetroot Production Through Npk Fertilizer Application in Kabale Municipality, Kabale District
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-05) Robert Balibuganda
This research study, "Optimizing Beetroot Production through NPK Fertilizer Application in Kabale Municipality, Kabale District," aimed to determine how different application rates of NPK fertilizers affect beetroot growth and production. It was motivated by a need to enhance beetroot production among smallholders in this region through optimal nutrient use. It was intended to especially: (1) examine how different application rates of NPK fertilizers influence beetroot growth parameters such as plant height and number of leaves; (2) assess how application of NPK fertilizers influences yield of minor, medium, and large beetroot roots; and (3) determine the most financially successful application rates of fertilizers. A field trial was conducted in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) layout with five treatments: control (0 kg/ha), 50 kg/ha, 100 kg/ha, 150 kg/ha, and 200 kg/ha of NPK (17:17:17) fertilizer. Three replications were used for every treatment. Measurements were taken on plant height and number of leaves, while beetroot root yield was considered in categories with respect to weight and diameter, such as small, medium, and large. Statistical evaluation was performed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to assess the level of differences among treatments. A cost-benefit analysis was conducted to identify the profitability associated with each fertilizer application rate. The results revealed that increasing rates of NPK fertilizer significantly enhanced beetroot growth and yield parameters. The highest plant height and number of leaves were observed at 150 kg/ha, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.001 for height and p = 0.014 for leaf number). The number of large-sized beetroot roots was significantly affected by NPK application (p = 0.0031), although the weight of these roots did not differ significantly across treatments (p = 0.877). The highest number of large-sized roots was recorded at 150 kg/ha, while medium-sized roots peaked at 100 kg/ha. The scatter and dotted graphs supported a strong positive relationship between fertilizer rate and root size up to the optimal level, beyond which diminishing returns were noted. Economic analysis indicated that the most profitable application rate was between 100 and 150 kg/ha, offering high yield returns while minimizing input costs. In conclusion, the study found that NPK fertilizer has a positive influence on beetroot growth and yield in Kabale Municipality. However, the benefits of fertilizer use reach a plateau beyond certain rates, indicating the importance of applying optimal rather than excessive amounts. It is therefore recommended that farmers in the region adopt moderate NPK application rates (100– 150 kg/ha) to maximize productivity and economic returns. Extension agents should train farmers on efficient fertilizer use and conduct on-farm demonstrations. Further research should investigate the long-term effects of NPK on soil fertility, beetroot nutrient content, and crop resilience under changing climatic conditions.
Influence of Line Spacing on the Performance of Indigenous Maize Variety (Mahinda). Case Study Kabale District
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-20) Anaclet Nasasira
The study aimed and finding out the impact of line spacing on the performance of an indigenous maize variety (Mahinda) in Kabale District, Uganda. The trial was established BISHOP BARAHAM UNIVERSITY. The field experiment was conducted using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three treatments: T1-30cmx50cm, T2-60cmx30cm, T3-70cmx30cm spacing. Each treatment was replicated three times. Data were collected on plant height, number of leaves, dry and wet matter of plant plus cob size depending on different line spacing. Statistical analysis was performed using frequencies and correlation analysis to determine the significance level of differences among treatments. Additionally, a cost-benefit analysis was conducted to evaluate the profitability of spacing. It was conducted to optimize yield and improve productivity of a local maize variety that has been in kigezi for a long period of time by subjecting it to different line spacing. Data was collected on plant height, ear length, number of cobs per plant, and overall yield were measured and analyzed. The findings indicated that optimal line spacing increases production of Mahinda maize variety with a spacing of 60cmx30cm spacing giving a higher production rate. Therefore, this study suggests that Mahinda maize's productivity be boosted by using an ideal line spacing of 60 cm by 30 cm. This will increase food security and provide local farmers with more revenue. This study offers useful advice for smallholder farmers in Kabale District and emphasizes the significance of customized agronomic methods for native crop varieties.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Drip Irrigation Using Drip Bottles on Tomato Growing in Kabale District - Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-05) Kanery Arinamukama
This research report is about the implementation of drip irrigation using drip bottles for tomato growing. A study to assess the effectiveness of tomato growth and yields was conducted by drip irrigation using drip bottles for 6 months, ranging from planting to harvesting. It describes clearly the activities that were done during this research project, which are arranged in chapters, and each chapter indicates how the activities were performed. Tomato production in Kabale District, Uganda, faces challenges due to water scarcity and inefficient irrigation methods. This study investigated the implementation of drip irrigation using drip bottles to improve tomato yields.The project was conducted at the Uganda Christian University, Bishop Barham College farm, located in Rugarama, Southern Division, Kabale Municipality, Kabale District. Data was collected through experimental design, field observations, and measurements of tomato plant growth and yields.The results showed a significant increase in tomato yields using drip irrigation with drip bottles compared to traditional irrigation methods. Water usage was also reduced, and crop water stress was minimized. Based on the findings, it is recommended that the adoption of drip irrigation using drip bottles be considered as a sustainable and efficient irrigation method for tomato production in Kabale District. Farmers can benefit from increased yields, reduced water usage, and improved crop resilience to drought.
The Effect of Cover Cropping on Maize Production: A Case Study Bishop Barham University Gardens in Kabale District
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-05) Gilbert Birungi
The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of cover cropping on maize production at in Kabale District. The research was guided by the following objectives; to identify the effects of cover cropping on maize production in kabale district, to assess farmers' perceptions and knowledge of cover cropping practices and to propose strategies for promoting cover cropping as a sustainable agricultural practice for maize production. The experiment employed a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) to assess the effect of cover cropping on maize growth and yield. The study area was demarcated into plots measuring 6mx4m. These were further subdivided into blocks of 3MX2M, each receiving specific treatments. The treatments consisted of two cropping systems: maize grown with a cover crop (intercropped with beans) and maize grown as a sole crop (monoculture). In conclusion, Legume cover crops (e.g beans ) significantly improved maize germination, plant height, leaf area, stem girth, biomass, and yield compared to the control and grass cover crops, Mixed cover cropping had the highest yield performance, soil moisture retention, and organic matter levels while also demonstrating superior weed suppression. The study found out that most farmers were aware (68%) of cover cropping, with 74% believing it improves soil health. However, only 35% currently practice it, largely due to seed inaccessibility (46%). Strategies like media sensitization (60%), farmer training (55%), and integration into extension services (47%) have shown promise but require scaling and better coordination. Based on the findings: Cover cropping, particularly with legumes and mixed species, significantly enhances maize performance in terms of growth, yield, and soil health. Farmers are willing and partially informed, but adoption is limited by logistical challenges such as lack of training and seed access. Based on the conclusions drawn from this study, the following recommendations are made: Farmers in Kabale and similar agroecological zones should be encouraged to adopt cover cropping practices, such as intercropping maize with legumes (e.g., beans), to improve land use efficiency and economic returns. Further long-term studies should be conducted to evaluate the impacts of cover cropping on soil fertility, pest control, erosion prevention, and climate resilience, as well as overall sustainability across multiple cropping seasons.
Comparative Analysis of Poultry and Pig Manure on Cabbage Yield in Kabale Municipality, Kabale District
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-13) Tomasi Turyatemba
ABSTRACT The study assessed is comparative analysis of poultry and pig manure on cabbage yield in Kabale Municipality, Kabale district. The objectives of the study was to evaluate the effects of poultry manure application on the growth and yield of cabbage in Kabale Municipality, to assess the impact of pig manure application on the growth and yield of cabbage in Kabale Municipality and to compare the effectiveness of poultry and pig manure in enhancing cabbage yield in Kabale Municipality. Experimental research design was used and a plot was divided into five subsets. Results of the study revealed that the cabbages grown with poultry manure reached the greatest leaf length, approximately 36 cm, followed closely by those treated with pig manure at 34 cm, and finally the control group at 33 cm. These results demonstrate that while initial growth may appear stronger without manure, the application of organic manures, particularly poultry manure, leads to superior leaf development over time. The study concluded that the application of poultry and pig manure significantly enhances cabbage growth parameters particularly height and leaf size and increases the number of marketable cabbage heads. While weight per head was not statistically affected, the overall yield was positively influenced. The type and rate of manure should be selected based on the production objective: poultry manure for faster growth and market-ready cabbage, and piggery manure for longer-term soil enrichment. Control plots without manure demonstrated poor performance, affirming the necessity of organic inputs in sustainable cabbage farming systems. The study recommended that farmers targeting high marketable yield should apply 10–15 tons/ha of poultry or pig manure, with poultry manure providing slightly better immediate effects also farmers emphasizing vegetative cabbage growth or biomass (for example, for local dishes or processing), 15-20 tons/hectare is recommended.

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