Constraints to On-Farm Maize (Zea mays) Seed Production in Western Kenya: Seed Vigor and Viability

• Published in: Journal of new seeds Vol. 10; no. 3; pp. 149 - 159
• Main Authors: Wambugu, P. W., Mathenge, P. W., Auma, E. O., Van Rheenen, H. A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis Group 21.08.2009
• Subjects: fertilizer; harvest maturity; landraces; maize; physiological maturity; Striga; Zea mays
• ISSN: 1522-886X; 1522-9025
• DOI: 10.1080/15228860903062413

A survey conducted in Western Kenya revealed that about 80% of farmers used farm-saved maize (Zea mays L.) seeds. During the survey, late harvesting, heavy Striga infestation, use of local varieties, and low soil fertility were identified as some of the constraints that farmers faced in on-farm maize-seed production. On-station and on-farm trials were carried out in seven divisions of western Kenya with the objective of testing an on-farm maize-seed production system and improving quality of farm-saved seeds. The trials were set up in a factorial design fitted as randomized complete-block design (RCBD). There were three factors each at two levels: time of harvest, variety choice, and fertilizer application. Results indicated that seeds harvested at harvest maturity had significantly better vigor (p = .001) and viability (p = .05) than those harvested at physiological maturity. The local landraces had significantly better vigor than Kakamega Striga-Tolerant Population '94 (KSTP), but differences in viability were not significant. Fertilizer application led to a significant increase in both vigor and viability. Harvesting of seeds at harvest maturity and application of appropriate quantities of nitrogen were, therefore, recommended to farmers as practices that led to an improved on-farm production system of maize.