Influence of Potassium Iodide Fertilization Rates on Performance and Fortification of Cassava (Manihot Esculenta) in Southeastern Nigeria (Published)
Pot and field experiments were conducted between November 2011 and May 2013 in Calabar, (Southeastern rainforest agro-ecological zone of Nigeria) to determine the effective rate (0, 0.25, 0.50, & 1.0g KI) on agronomic fortification of two cassava varieties (TME 419 and TMS 30555). The designs were a 2×4 factorial experiment laid out in randomised complete block designed with three replicates. Vegetative parameters measured were plant height, leaf area (LA), tuber weight and tuber weight per plot. Iodine content was determined in cassava tuber and processed products (fufu). In both pot and field, applied doses of iodine did not significantly vary the plant height and LA and tuber weight (p≥0.05). Plot yield were not markedly influenced by Iodine levels (p≥0.05). Iodine absorption and retention in tuber flesh and fufu were significantly positively correlated with Iodine doses (p0≥.05 and 0.01). KI, at 2.5g per plant or 25kg/ha favoured iodine retention in tuber and fufu in TME 419 and for TMS 30555, 0.5g per plant or 5.0kg/ha. TME 419 retained more Iodine in tissues than TMS 30555.
Keywords: Agronomic Bio- fortification, Calabar, Iodine rates, cassava