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- These are Undergraduate Student Reports for UCU Science Students
Recent Submissions
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
ABSTRACT
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 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
ABSTRACT
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.
Evaluation of released and pre-released upland rice (Oryza sativa L.) for drought tolerance at germination and early seedling stage
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-19) Ayo Joash Joshua
In this study, evaluation of the effect of drought on germination and early seedling traits, targeting both released and pre-released upland rice varieties for genotype identification suitable to rainfed conditions in Uganda. Considering the susceptibility of upland rice to water stress at early growing stages, particularly in regions with low and erratic rainfall, this study was also designed to provide more information for breeding programs, as well as policies aimed at promoting robust rice cultivation in these regions. The study which was carried out at Uganda’s National Crops Resources Research Institute (NaCRRI) applied a Split Plot arrangement under a Completely Randomized Design evaluating fifteen rice genotypes at 5 levels of simulated drought stress using Polyethylene Glycol 6000 (PEG-6000) concentrations of: 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%. Germination metrics (percentage, velocity index, mean germination time, and synchrony) as well as early seedling parameters (shoot length, root length, fresh weight, dry weight, and drought injury scores) were evaluated. All germination and seedling performance indices were significantly reduced by increasing PEG concentrations, with PEG 20 having the most adverse effect on plants. Under extreme stress, the released varieties such as NamChe-5 had higher germination percentages (33.33%), the fastest mean germination time (4.88 days), the highest germination velocity index (3.28), and retained superior seedling dry weight (0.87 mg) and root length (2.47 cm), confirming its strong drought tolerance. However, some of these lines like UP-25(45) which were pre-released compared with released top cultivars demonstrated better performance, indicating their potential for varietal release in near future. While the drought-sensitive control IR64 demonstrated significantly lower responses in all parameters. The results demonstrate that early-generation screening can identify lines that outperform in drought environments, and pre-released genotypes offer potential for reducing yield losses in Uganda's rainfed upland rice production systems. It is, therefore, critical to incorporate early-stage drought tolerance in breeding programs for sustainable rice production under climate variability.
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.
Evaluation of seed quality in three released varieties of Solanum aethiopicum Shum across seasons
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-29) Ecora Faith Akile
Solanum aethiopicum Shum presents differences in germination performance with a relatively low germination percentage of 0-25% and this is attributed to the relative response of different varieties to germination conditions caused by intraspecific factors such as genetics. With progression of generations over seasons, seeds vary in the stability levels of inheritance of superior traits for germination pointing out the difference in levels of seed quality for efficient crop establishment and growth. This research evaluated seed quality of Solanum aethiopicum Shum varieties E11, E15, and E16 over two seasons and the effect of germination synchrony on plant growth performance. This was objectively to check for stability of germination of the varieties with progression over seasons and establish how levels of germination synchrony influence plant establishment and growth.
The experiment was carried out in a screen house at Uganda Christian University, Mukono using a Completely Randomized Design, with three replicates for three varieties. Germination study was conducted in a healing chamber and germination metrics recorded were germination percentage, mean germination time, germination velocity index, and germination synchrony. Subsequent plant growth was conducted in a screen house and growth metrics studied were plant height, plant canopy, stem girth, leave dimensions, and petiole traits.
Results of the study indicated that germination performance varied across all varieties over seasons with p-value 0.229 for germination percentage, p-value 2.46 for Mean Germination Time, p-value 0.046 for Germination Velocity Index, and p-value 0.064 for Germination Synchrony at significance level of 5%. Furthermore, different levels of germination synchrony across the varieties had marginal to significant effects on plant growth performance where variety E11 expressed relatively stable genetic expression across seasons in its germination rates followed by varieties E15 and E16. Additionally, different germination synchrony levels exhibited variations in all plant growth parameters with exception of petiole length suggesting a strong influence of germination synchrony on plant establishment other the germination velocity index on plant growth.
Accessing coffee banana integration on household food security
(2025-05-21) Mpungu Isaac
Investigating Consumer Acceptability of Selected Amaranthus Genotypes in Mukono District
(Uganda Christain University, 2025-06-18) Ekoku Iranya James
Amaranthus, commonly referred to as African spinach, is an indigenous leafy
vegetable recognized for its high nutritional value. Despite its potential contribution to food and nutritional security, consumer preferences for different Amaranthus genotypes in Mukono District, Uganda, remained largely unknown. In the gene bank of Uganda Christian University, there are over 14 genotypes of Amaranths. There is need to test for consumers acceptability for this genotypes, five were selected to enable breeding and development of variety that consumer would like. The breeder’s knowledge gap hinders efforts to identify consumer-preferred genotypes, which is essential for guiding breeding programs aimed at developing improved and widely accepted varieties. This study therefore investigated consumer acceptability of five Amaranthus genotypes (standard dodo, red dodo A025, local dodoA007, Grain dodo, and long leaf A008) in Mukono District, focusing on physical and sensory traits. Using a Consumer sensory acceptability as dependent variables traits like Color, Aroma, Taste, Mouth feel, Texture and General acceptability were considered and in Physical traits (Number of leaf, Leaf size, Leaf color, Leaf shininess, leaf shape, Leaf smoothness, Succulence, general acceptability, were considered. through consumer panels. Genotypes from Uganda Christian University's gene bank served as the independent variable, while consumer acceptability scores functioned as the dependent variable. the p-values were less than 0.001, this indicates that there is a
significant difference in consumer’s preference base on the physical traits of the Amaranthus , while consumer sensory attributes of mouth feel and texture of p-value 003 and p-value = 028 indicates significant differences in the sensory evolution. This study concludes that breeders should focus on breeding standard dodo and local dodo A007 for commercial production basing on their likeness for physical traits and Red dodo A025 should be improved in the physical traits like size and leaf smoothness.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Evaluating the post flooding recovery recovery potential and growth response of different Solanum Aethiopicum (shum) genotype
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-19) Mukisa Tonny
The increasing occurrence of flooding events due to climate change poses a serious
threat to crop production in sub-Saharan Africa, where Solanum aethiopicum Shum
serves as an important leafy vegetable for food, nutritional and income security.
This study evaluated the post-flooding recovery potential and growth responses of
three Solanum aethiopicum Shum genotypes E11, E15, and E16 under controlled
flooding conditions at Uganda Christian University. A randomized split plot design
was used, subjecting plants to two weeks of partial submergence followed by
recovery monitoring for a period of 14days. Results revealed significant genotypic
variations in recovery time and, survival rates as measured using physiological
parameters (such as chlorophyll content), and morphological traits (including leaf
area, root length, and biomass accumulation). Genotype E11 exhibited the fastest
recovery and highest survival rate (99.17%), while E16 demonstrated superior
biomass production and root development. Analysis of the physiological traits
showed that E15 and E16 maintained higher chlorophyll content during the
recovery phase, indicating efficient restoration of photosynthetic capacity.
Morphological recovery strategies differed, with E11 focusing on fewer but larger
leaves, and E15 and E16 were favouring new leaf proliferation. These findings
highlight the genetic diversity in flooding tolerance among Solanum aethiopicum
Shum genotypes and underscore the potential for breeding flood-resilient cultivars
to ensure food security in flood-prone regions.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Farmers’ Perceptions of Community Outreach Activities in Mukono District Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-16) Biluge Kaboyi Rostand
Agricultural outreach activities serve as vital channels through which universities disseminate knowledge to local farmers in surrounding communities. This study
evaluated farmers' perceptions regarding the effectiveness of Uganda Christian University's (UCU) agricultural outreach programs in Mukono District, employing a mixed-methods approach with surveys from 60 farmers and interviews with 3community leaders across different villages. The study revealed that most farmers (91.6%) perceived the program as effective in influencing their agricultural practices. Crop-related activities received the highest appreciation (74.7%), particularly vegetable farming (81.3%) and garden farming(76.2%). While 70% of farmers reported improved agricultural productivity from program
participation, only 55% experienced corresponding increases in household income, indicating a gap between productivity gains and economic benefits. Furthermore, just 36.7% of farmers acknowledged program contributions to climate change adaptation. Farmers faced five main categories of challenges: resource constraints (30%), knowledge and literacy limitations (30%), environmental factors (20%), follow-up and continuity issues (10%), and market access problems (10%). Despite these challenges, all participants (100%) expressed willingness to accommodate more students, reflecting the perceived value of knowledge exchange. The study concludes that UCU's outreach program significantly influences agricultural knowledge implementation in Mukono District, particularly in crop production. However, to enhance program effectiveness, UCU should incorporate climate-smart agriculture practices, strengthen market linkages, develop diverse teaching methodologies accommodating various educational backgrounds, introduce compact agricultural technologies for limited land, establish systematic follow-up mechanisms, and build strategic partnerships with market actors to help farmers translate productivity improvements into tangible economic benefits.