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Materials and Method
The trial was
established only at Namulonge Agricultural Research Institute and
consisted of 18 upland varieties including 3 local checks; NARIC 1,
NARIC 2 and NARIC 3. The test materials were obtained from two main
sources; The Africa Rice Center (WARDA) and from the national research
organization of Madagascar (FOFIFA). Plots measured 5 meters long with 5
rows planted at a spacing of 30cm x 5cm. The design used was randomized
complete block (RCBD) with 4 replications. NPK fertilizer was applied at
planting at a rate of 30 kg/ha. Side dressing was done 45 days after
sowing. Data was taken on a number of parameters including, panicle
length, 50% heading while at harvest, field weight, moisture content and
number of grains per panicle were taken. After drying the grain for
three consecutive days, amount got from the harvested area in each plot
was put in a bucket of water so as to remove empty grains. The empty
grains floated on the surface while the filled grains settled at the
bottom of the bucket. The floating grain and the chaff were removed
using a strainer. All the water was then decanted and the filled grain
was dried again in the sun. New weight of the grain together with the
moisture content were taken. Data analysis was carried out using
STATISTIX software statistical package.
On-going activities:
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New varieties being
evaluated with participation of farmers
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Seed rate studies on
going
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Optimal fertilizer
rates being determined
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Training of farmers
the recommended crop management practices
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