Crop CN-2016

Bedele Agricultural Research Center (BeARC)
Crop Research Process
Crop Research Project Concept notes for 2024
Compiled by: Gebeyehu Chala
Email Adress:gebeyehuchal@gmail.com
Phone number: 0915 589051
September, 2023
Bedele,
1. Name of Research Center: Bedele Agricultural Research Center
2. Name of Directorate (Process): Crop Research Process
3. Research Team: Cereal Crops Technology Research Team
4. Project Title: Development of Finger millet Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone
4.1. Thematic Area: Breeding
Project Code: BeARC/CP/CR-2024 (1)

Activity title 1: Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn) Preliminary Observation
Nursery in Buno Bedele Zone
1. Background and justification
Finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn), believed to be adapted to the arid and semi-arid
regions of the world and is highly tolerant to pests, diseases and drought (Gowda et al., 2015). It
serves as a food and nutritional security crop because of its adaptability to a wide range of
environments, high nutritional value, excellent storage qualities and its importance as a low input
crop (Dida et al., 2007). It is cultivated on more than 31 million ha of land globally (FAO, 2014).
Finger millet straw is used for livestock feed in many countries, however, it is mainly grown for
food (Upadhyaya et al., 2006) and also for brewing of gluten free beverages (Shayo et al., 2001;
Fernandez et al., 2003; Bano et al., 2015). Finger millet grain is nutritionally rich as it contains
high levels of protein and minerals (Upadhyaya et al., 2006). David et al. (2014) reported that the
proximate composition of finger millet to be moisture (6.99%), ash (2.37%), crude protein
(10.28%), crude fibre (3.10%), crude lipid (0.83%), carbohydrate (76.43%) and mineral like
potassium (14.19 mg/g), sodium (6.86 mg/g), copper (0.10 mg/g), calcium (1.13 mg/g),
magnesium (6.25 mg/g), zinc (0.22 mg/g), manganese (0.32 mg/g), iron (0.11 mg/g) and lead
(0.001 mg/g). It contains appreciable amount of the essential amino acid methionine which is
lacking in most food grains (National Academies, 1996). It is potentially a climate-resilient and
nutritious crop with highly nutritive and antioxidant properties (Kumar et al, 2017) and very
importantly, grain rich in calcium, fiber, iron and has excellent malting qualities (Chandrashekar,
2010 and. Pradhan et al, 2010). In Ethiopia also, it is an important staple food crop widely grown
and traditionally it is used for making bread ‘injera’ mixed with teff, porridge, local beer ‘tella’
and a powerful distilled spirit 'areke' and a number of other uses (Andualem, 2008).
Finger millet is suitable to design and develop value-added nutritive food products.
Woldemichael and Admasu (2017) reported germination to be effective in starch and protein
hydrolysis; while fermentation was more effective in reducing phytate, consequently increasing
mineral bioavailability
African countries contributed 61 percent of area under millets and 47 percent of production
followed by India (31.2percent of area and 42.53 percent of production). Among African
countries Ethiopia contributed 2.1 percent of area and 4.8 percent of production of millets. In
Ethiopia, finger millet is produced on about 3.60% (456,057.32 ha) of land and produced
1,030,823.153 tons in 2010 ‘meher’ season (CSA, 2019). The share of national finger millet 2
production was from Oromia that was about 93,831.88ha area of land (219,537.397 ton) with
national average grain yield is far below the potential 2.1 tones (CSA, 2021). Among factors that
contributed to the fluctuation of finger millet yield were low in yielding due to shortage of high
yielding cultivars, distribution of limited number of improved varieties, moisture stress, lodging
effect, diseases, low fertility and poor crop management practices (Degu et al., 2009). Strengthen
the seed production and delivery systems for improved varieties also the most bottleneck of the
crop in the small scale farmers.
Despite enormous economic and dietary values of the crop, the average yield has remained low
as compared to other finger millet producing countries. This has been attributed to multifaceted
biotic and abiotic factors including insufficient/excess and erratic rainfall, poor agronomic
practices, poor soil fertility, diseases and insect pests. Finger millet is more or less tolerant to
acidic soil and there are series diseases problem like head blight, brown spot. Therefore, the
objective of this study will be:
To select best performed and disease tolerant Finger millet genotypes for future breeding
program
2. Materials and Methods
Experimental Treatments and Design
Around 100 finger millet genotypes will be brought from Melkasa ARC and evaluated as
experimental materials. Three standard checks (Boneya, Gute and Wama) which were already
adapted will be used. These materials will be randomly assigned to the experimental block and
the experiment will be laid out in augmented design with non-replication. The spacing between
blocks will be 1m. The gross size of each plot will be 0.8m 2 (0.4 x 2m) having two rows with a
row-to-row spacing of 40cm. Planting will be done by hand drilling with a seed rate of 15 kg ha -
1
. NPS fertilizer will be applied at the rate of 100kg ha -1 at the time of planting and urea will be
applied at the rate of 100kgha-1 after 30-40 days plant emergence.
Data to be collected
Data will be collected from five plants of two rows of each plot and randomly tagged and the
relevant data will be recorded. The followings are the major parameters to be recorded:
Days to Flowering: the number of days from planting to 50% plants of the plot starts to flower
and will be recorded on plot base for each experimental unit.
Days to Maturity: The number of days starting from emergence to the date when 90% of the
spike became yellow or physiological maturity.
Plant Height: The average height of five randomly selected and pre-tagged plants in each plot
will be measured in centimeter from the ground surface to the top of the spike at maturity.
Finger length: The average height of five randomly selected and pre-tagged plants in each plot
will be measured in centimeter from the emergence of finger to the tip of the tip
Disease and insect pest score: will be recorded using (1-9) rating scale where 1= No visible
disease symptom, 3= resistant, 5=moderately tolerance, 7= susceptible and 9= highly susceptible.
The disease will be scored at weekly intervals starting from the first disease spot symptom
appearance and will be continued until the final stage when the disease attained maximum
(Villegas et al., 2012).
Grain yield (GY): The weight of seeds harvested will be weighted in gram from each plot.
Data Analysis
The collected data will be subjected to Genstat 18 th edition statistical software program.
Significant difference between and among treatment means will be assessed using the least
significant difference (LSD) at 0.05 level of probability.
Duration: 1 year (2024/25 G.C)
Location: 1 location (Bedele)
Expected output: Better performed finger millet genotypes will be selected
Beneficiary: Researchers, Farmers, NGOs, Unions, and other stalk holders

Initiator(s): Gebeyehu Chala and Gemechu Deso
Responsible person: Gebeyehu Chala and Gemechu Deso
Implementing Center: Bedele Agricultural Research Center
Budget Source: IQQO

1. Name Of Research Center: Bedele Agricultural Research Center
2. Name Of Directorate (Process): Crop Research Process
4. Project Title: Development of Tef Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone
4.1. Thematic Area: Variety development

Activity title 2: White Seeded Tef (Eragrostis tef) Regional Variety Trial for Yield in major
Tef growing districts of Buno Bedele Zone (TRVT)
Materials and Methods
Experimental Material and Design
A total of twenty five (25) white seeded tef genotypes including checks brought from (IBC) and
Debre Zeite Agricultural Research Center were evaluated in simple lattice design with two
replications on the area of each plot (2m x 1.2m) 2.4m 2 having six rows for PYT stage. Finally
around 10-15 genotypes are expected to promote Regional Variety Trial (RVT) for multi-
location trial.
Now for the coming season, the experiment will be sown in RCBD Design with three
replications with a space between rows; plot and block will be 0.2m, 0.5m and 1m respectively.
Planting will be done by drilling seeds in rows with a seed rate of 25 kg ha -1. NPS fertilizer will
be applied as band application at the rate of 100kg ha-1 at the time of planting; and Nitrogen
fertilizer in the form of Urea (46% N) at a rate of 100 kg ha -1 will be applied in two split doses;
with half at sowing and the remaining half at vegetative stage.
Days to emergence (DE): This parameter of the plant will be determined by counting the
number of days from sowing to the time when 50% of the plants started to emerge.
Date of heading (DH): The number of days from sowing up to the emergence of the tips of the
panicles from the flag leaf sheath in 50% of the plot stands.
Days to maturity (DM): The number of days from sowing up to 50% of the plants in the plot
reaching physiological maturity stage.
Plant height (PH): The length from the base of the stem of the main tiller to the tip of the main
shoot panicle at maturity will be recorded as the average of ten plants per plot and measured in
centimeter.
Panicle length (PL): The length from the base of the main shoot panicle where the first branch
emerges to the tip of the panicle at maturity will be recorded as the average of ten plants per plot
and measured in centimeter.
Data Analysis
The collected data will be subjected to statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA) using Genstat
18th edition statistical software program. Significant difference between and among treatment
means will be assessed using the least significant difference (LSD) at 0.05 level of probability.
Duration: 2 years (2024-2025 G.C)
Locations: 3 locations (Bedele, Gechi and Chora)
Expected output: best performed white seeded tef genotypes will be promoted to Variety
Verification trial (VVT)
Budget Source: IQQO

1. Name Of Research Center: Bedele Agricultural Research Center
2. Name Of Directorate (Process): Crop Research Process
4. Project Title: Development of Tef Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone

Activity title 3: Brown Seeded Tef (Eragrostis tef) Regional Variety Trial for Yield in major
Tef growing districts of Buno Bedele Zone (TRVT)
A total of twenty five (25) brown seeded tef genotypes including checks brought from (IBC) and
Debre Zeite Agricultural Research Center were evaluated in simple lattice design with two
replications on the area of each plot (2m x 1.2m) 2.4m2 having six rows for PYT stage. Finally
around 10-15 genotypes are expected to promote Regional Variety Trial (RVT) for multi-
location trial.
Now for the coming season, the experiment will be sown in RCBD Design with three
replications with a space between rows; plot and block will be 0.2m, 0.5m and 1m respectively.
Planting will be done by drilling seeds in rows with a seed rate of 25 kg ha -1. NPS fertilizer will
be applied as band application at the rate of 100kg ha-1 at the time of planting; and Nitrogen
fertilizer in the form of Urea (46% N) at a rate of 100 kg ha -1 will be applied in two split doses;
with half at sowing and the remaining half at vegetative stage.
Days to emergence (DE): This parameter of the plant will be determined by counting the
number of days from sowing to the time when 50% of the plants started to emerge.
Date of heading (DH): The number of days from sowing up to the emergence of the tips of the
panicles from the flag leaf sheath in 50% of the plot stands.
Days to maturity (DM): The number of days from sowing up to 50% of the plants in the plot
reaching physiological maturity stage.
Plant height (PH): The length from the base of the stem of the main tiller to the tip of the main
shoot panicle at maturity will be recorded as the average of ten plants per plot and measured in
centimeter.
Panicle length (PL): The length from the base of the main shoot panicle where the first branch
emerges to the tip of the panicle at maturity will be recorded as the average of ten plants per plot
and measured in centimeter.
Data Analysis
The collected data will be subjected to statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA) using Genstat
18th edition statistical software program. Significant difference between and among treatment
means will be assessed using the least significant difference (LSD) at 0.05 level of probability.

Locations: 3 locations (Bedele, Gechi and Chora)
Expected output: best performed brown seeded tef genotypes will be promoted to Variety
Verification trial (VVT)
Budget Source: IQQO

4. Project Title: Development of Maize Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone

Activity title 4. Adaptation Trial of high land Maize (Zea mays L.) Varieties in Buno Bedele
Zone
1. Background and Justification
Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important cereal crop, which ranks third after wheat and rice, based on
area and production in the world with total areas exceeding 160 million hectare (FAO, 2010). As
one of the most important crops in the world, maize serves as basic raw material for the
production of starch, oil and protein, alcoholic beverages and food sweeteners. In sub-Saharan
Africa, smallholder agriculture is the dominant sector that provides food and employment and for
this reason has been suggested as a target for investments aimed at reducing poverty and
accelerating economic growth. Yet, small-scale agriculture in SSA has been challenged by
multiple factors at different levels. Population growth, urbanization and dietary changes have
increased food demand, which has threatened food security, especially in the developing world
(Dzanku et al., 2015; Giller et al., 2019; Godfray et al., 2010; Licker et al., 2010; Tittonell and
Giller, 2013; van Ittersum et al., 2016)
Maize is the most widely-grown staple food crop in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) occupying more
than 33 million ha each year (FAOSTAT, 2015). The crop covers nearly 17% of the estimated
200 million ha cultivated land in SSA, and is produced in diverse production environments and
consumed by people with varying food preferences and socio-economic backgrounds. More than
300 million people in SSA depend on maize as source of food and livelihood
(http://dtma.cimmyt.org/index.php/background). The top 20 countries, namely South Africa,
Nigeria, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Malawi, Kenya, Zambia, Uganda, Ghana, Mozambique, Cameroon,
Mali, Burkina Faso, Benin, DRC, Angola, Zimbabwe, Togo, and Cote d’Ivoire, account for 96%
of the total maize production in SSA. (FAOSTAT, 2015).
Maize is critical for food security in Ethiopia. More than 9 million smallholders grow maize on
about 2 million ha (14% of total land area in Ethiopia) and around 88% of their production is
used for food consumption (Abate et al., 2015). In terms of calorie intake, maize is the most
important staple crop for the rural Ethiopian population (Berhane et al., 2011). Over the last two
decades, the maize sector in Ethiopia has experienced an unprecedented transformation. Maize
yields have doubled from around 1.6 t/ha in 1990 to more than 3.7 t/ha in recent years, the
highest level in sub-Saharan Africa after South Africa (FAO, 2019). Important causes for the
increased productivity include increased availability and use of modern inputs (e.g. modern
varieties and fertilizer), better extension services and increasing demand (Abate et al., 2015).
Despite the recent progress in productivity, yield levels in Ethiopia are still very low relative to
what they could be. This is in contrast with for example Latin American countries which are able
to reach around 45% of potential maize yield (GYGA, 2019). Increasing maize yield and
reducing the yield gap are essential to ensure future food security in Ethiopia. In a recent paper
Ethiopia's capacity to feed itself by 2050 was analyzed (Van Ittersum et al., 2016). The analysis
showed that the country needs to continue the current observed increase in cereal yield (of which
maize makes up the largest share) to maintain its present self-sufficiency rate of 95% in 2050, as
by then the population will have probably more than doubled and consumption per capita levels
have increased in line with a higher projected income level.
Maize is one of the most important cereal crops in Ethiopia. It is an important field crop in terms
of area coverage, production and utilization. It ranks second in area coverage and first in total
production (CSA2018). It is grown for its food and feed values and one of the most important
staples and cash crops and the main sources of calories Wedajo G, Hussein M (2015). According
to CSA (2020/21) report, the land cultivated to maize is 2,526,212.36 hectares and production
has 105,570,935.92 quintals and yield(Qt)41.79, In Oromia region, area of coverage, production
and yield(qt/he) with (1,371,868.06), (58,887,064.26) and (42.92) respectively. Buno Bedele
zone is a maize belt area among the highest potential agro-ecologies in Oromia for maize
production with 56,906.03ha with production and productivity of 2,673,906.42 quintals and
46.99 qt ha-1 (CSA, 2020/21).
Maize production in the area is increasing with area expansion with negligible yield gains due to
low fertility of soil, lack of availability of improved seed, appropriate rating of fertilizer and poor
cultural practices.
On other hand, the low productivity of maize is attributed to many factors like declining of soil
fertility, poor agronomic practice, cease/limited use of fertilizer, insufficient technology
generation and adaptation, poor seed quality, disease, insect pest and weeds. One of the major
problems constraining the development of an economically successful agriculture is improved
varieties CIMMYT (2004). The option of expanding agricultural production in general and
maize production in particular through expansion in cultivated land will not be possible.
Improved seed are major components of improving maize production technologies. In most parts
of Buno Bedele farmers use BH-661, but this variety damaged by disease and out of production
at many areas. Major disease of the study areas are Gray leaf spots, Maize leaf rust, Blight and
Corn smuts are major worsts diseases observed and farmers are still asking varietal options.
Therefore, there is strong interest from farmers to replace the currently growing low yielding
varieties by improved maize variety. Therefore, to increase maize production in the study area,
improved varieties that resist/tolerates disease are very important.
Therefore, this activity is designed to evaluate and select the most adaptable maize varieties with
high yielder and disease and insect resistance/tolerant in Buno Bedele zone.
At least Ten (10) released varieties of maize varieties will be brought from Ambo Agricultural
Research Center (AARC) and Bako Agricultural Centers (BARC) as experimental materials.
These materials will be randomly assigned to the experimental block and the experiment will be
laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The spacing
between blocks and plots will be 1m and 0.5m, respectively. The gross size of each plot will be
4m (5rows x 0.6m)=12m2 having five rows with a row-to-row spacing of 75cm plant to plant
spacing 25cm. Two external rows from both sides of each plot will be considered as border
making and the three net plot area will be 4m (3rows x 0.6m)=7.2m 2. The total area of the
experimental field will be 489.5m2 (44.5m x 11m).The amounts of seed will be calculated at the
rate of 25kg/ha and NPSB fertilizer rate will be calculated at the rate of 150kg/ha and Urea
fertilizer will be applied at the rate of 200kg/ha. All cultural practices will be applied as per
recommendations to all experimental plots.
Data will be collected from five plants of two rows of each plot and randomly tagged and the
relevant data will be recorded. The followings are the major parameters to be recorded:
Days to emergence:
Days to Flowering: the number of days from planting to 50% plants of the plot starts to flower
and will be recorded on plot base for each experimental unit.
Days to Maturity: The number of days starting from emergence to the date when 90% of the
spike became yellow or physiological maturity.
Plant Height: The average height of five randomly selected and pre-tagged plants in each plot
will be measured in centimeter from the ground surface to the top of the spike at maturity.
Data Analysis
The collected data will be subjected to Genstat 18 th edition statistical software program.
Significant difference between and among treatment means will be assessed using the least
significant difference (LSD) at 0.05 level of probability.
Location: 3 locations (Bedele, Chora and Gechi) districts
Expected output: Better performed maize varieties will be selected
Budget Source: IQQO

4. Project Title: Development of Finger millet Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone
4.1. Thematic Area: Agronomy

Project title (5): Improvement of Agronomic practice for Finger millet crop Technologies to
Buno Bedele Zone
Activity (5): Effects of Fertilizer Rates and Inter Row Spacing on Yield and Yield
Components of Finger Millet (Eleucine coracana L.) In Buno Bedele Zone, Southern
Ethiopia
Finger millet (Eleusine coracana L.) is the subspecies coracana belongs to the family Poeceae.
Finger millet is a staple cereal food crop for millions of people in the semi-arid region of the
world, particularly in Africa and India, and especially those who live by subsistence farming
(Shinggu et al., 2009). The crop ranks third in cereal production in semi-arid regions of the world
after sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) (Masresha Fetene et al., 2011). Finger millet is one of the
important food crops in Ethiopia. It plays a significant role both as food grain and animal feed in
areas where production of other cereals are reduced by marginal
environments (Erenso Degu et al., 2007). It is used in many forms for human food.
Finger Millet is grown from sea level up to about 2400 m a.s.l and grown in a wide range of soil
types and tolerate notable high rainfall and certain degree of alkalinity. The finger millet
agronomy plays a great role in increasing and sustaining the crop’s production and productivity.
It is highly valued by the local farmers for its ability to grow in adverse agro-climatic conditions,
where cereal crops such as maize wheat and rice fail and has been noted to tolerate wide variety
of soils.
Several factors to be determined for every successful cultivation of a crop. Most Ethiopian
farmers use mineral-based fertilizer solutions forgoing the consideration of the optimum
level that is necessary for minimizing crop production loss, yield maximization, reduction
of wastage and reduction in the use of inorganic fertilizer. Fertilization is a very important
aspect of the production system of different crops. Optimum sowing and plant spacing
ensure proper growth and enlargement of plant resultant to maximum yield of the crop and
economic use of land. The finger millet yield has been revealed to depend on the number
of crops per unit of soil. The crop population and organization, where finger millet is not
outstanding, may obviously affect crop growth, growth and marketable output of many
grain plants.
The connection between plant growth and population can be complicated because development
depends on the genotype of the plants. The close proximity within the roots and shot the
microenvironments affect the interaction of the adjacent crops. When competitive or allopathic,
such interactions might affect plant growth and development. Under inadequate circumstances of
soil water, favorable plant population of a crop should be smaller. The contrary is also true;
under-watered circumstances, the population of plants may be greater.
It is for this reason that this study will be conducted to find the best spacing of finger millet in
Buno Bedele zone. It’s also worth noting that most farmers in the area of study use mineral-
based fertilizer solutions forgoing the consideration of the optimum level that necessary for
minimizing crop production loss, yield maximization, reduction of wastage and soil-toxicity
reduction. For that reason, this study mainly established the optimum level or amount of
chemical fertilizer NPS required for maximum growth, production, and yield levels of finger
millet under the prevailing quality of the soil and climatic of the same area. Therefore Fertilizer
rates and spacing can have a significant effect on plant growth, marketability and finger millet
yield. Thus, objectives of this study will be:
 To determine the interaction effect of Fertilizer rates and inter row spacing on
yield and yield components of finger millet in the study area
 To determine optimum economic feasibility Fertilizer rate and row spacing in the
study area.
The experiment will be conducted at Bedele, Dabo Hanna and Gechi in 2024 to 2026 cropping
season. The experiment will conducted using as test crop improved Finger Millet variety.
Treatments and Experimental Design
The treatments will be consisted of three NPS fertilizer rates (50,100 and 150 kg ha -1 and four
inter row spacing's (20, 30, 40 and 50) one as control treatments will be arranged in 3x3
factorial arrangement in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) replicated three
replications. The total area 324.5 m2 and the total gross plot size will be done with 3 m width and
2 m length (6 m2). Based on inter-row spacing and gross plot size the number of rows per plot
was 15 rows for 20 cm, 10 rows for 30 cm , 7 rows for 40 cm and 6 rows for 50 cm. The space
between blocks was 1 m while spacing between each plot in block was 0.5 m.
Experimental Procedure and Field Management
The experimental field will be ploughed using oxen, disked and harrowed with human labor to
make the soil fine tilth. Then, seeding will be done by direct drilling using 15 kg ha -1seeding rate
for each plot. Each plot received uniform doses of UREA 100 kg ha -1 fertilizers. All NPS will be
applied at planting and UREA will be applied at two times at planting, the first at planting and
second after 35. The variety called Boneya will be used as experiment material. All agronomic
practices including land preparation, seed sowing, weeding, soil cultivation and other
management practices will be applied according to research of finger millet.
Table 1. Treatments combination for Effect of NPS and Inter row Spacing for Finger millet crop
Treatments Number Treatment Combination (NPS and inter row spacing)
1 Control
2 50*20
3 50*30
4 50*40
5 50*50
6 100*20
7 100*30
8 100*40
9 100*50
10 150*20
11 150*30
12 150*40
13 150*50
Soil Sampling and Analysis
Soil samples will be taken randomly in a zigzag pattern from the entire experimental field at the
depth of 20 cm from the top soil layer before sowing using an augur. These samples will be
composited into a bucket. The soil will be broken into small crumbs and thoroughly mixed.
From this mixture, a sample weighing 1 kg will be filled into a plastic bag. The soil will be air-
dried and sieved through a 2 mm sieve. The sample will be replicated three times and prepared
for determining soil textural class, soil pH, organic carbon, total N, available P, and CEC. Soil
analyses will be made at the Soils Laboratory of Bedele Agricultural Research Center.
Data Collection
Days to emergence: It is the number of days from sowing to the emergence of seedlings from
the ground. It will be taken when50% of the plants were emergence and recorded on the basis of
visual observation Tekle (2014).
Days to flowering: Number of days from sowing to the date when opening of 50% of flowering
will be recorded from each plot; this also as determined by visual observation
Days to physiological maturity: Days to physiological maturity was recorded by counting the
number of days from date of sowing until 90% of the plants change from green to yellowish
color, loose its water content and attain to physiological maturity in each plot. It will be also be
indicated by senescence of the leaves as well as free threshing of seeds from the glumes when
pressed between the thumb and the forefinger.
Plant height in cm: The average plant height of ten randomly selected plants within the net plot
areas, at 90% maturity will be measured from the base of the plant to the tip of the main head of
the plant by linear meter and expressed in centimeters.
Number of head: The total number head at-harvest will be counted in net plot from 10 tagged
plants at each plot and divided by 10 to calculate average number of head
Number of total tillers: The total number of tillers plant at harvest will be counted in net plot
from 10 tagged plants at each plot and divided by 10 to calculate average number of tillers plant -1
Numberof effective tillers: Numbers of effective (fertile) tillers will be counted from the net
plot of 10 randomly selected plants at each plot at harvesting.
Number of Kernels per head: Number of kernels per head will be taken by counting from 10
randomly selected plants from the inner rows of each plot and the mean kernels number was
taken at harvesting.
Total biomass yield (kg ha-1): Total biomass or biological yield will be measured by weighing
the sun dried total aboveground plant biomass (straw + grain) from the net plot area of each plot
Grain yield: Mass of harvested grain yield will be measured by taking the weight of the grains
threshed and winnowed from the net plot area of each plot and converted in to kilograms per
hectare after adjusting the grain moisture content to 12.5%.
Straw Yield (SY): Straw yield will be determined by subtracting above ground biomass from
grain yield
Data Analysis
All collected crop data will be subjected to analysis of variance two ways (ANOVA) using SAS.
Whenever the ANOVA results show significant difference among treatments for a parameter in
question, further mean separation was carried out using Least Significant Difference (LSD) mean
comparison at 5% and 1% significant level of probability. Moreover, correlation coefficients
among yield and yield components were carried out to determine the relationship between these
attributes as affected by experimental treatments. Correlation coefficient value (r) will be
calculated and test of significance was analyzed using Pearson correlation procedure found in
SAS software.
Partial budget analysis
Partial budget analysis will be done following the methodologies of CIMMYT (1988) to
organize experimental data and information about the costs and benefits of various alternative
treatments. Assuming that the farmer did not get the same yield as the researcher; therefore, both
the grain and straw yield were adjusted downward by 10% before calculating the gross benefit.
Then, the gross benefit birr per hectare will be calculated by product price of grain and straw
yield for each treatment with local market price. Similarly, variable costs due to the treatments
will be estimated with the surrounding market prices and summed up to get total variable costs
(TVC). Net benefits (NB) due to the treatments will be obtained by subtracting TVC from GB at
hectare basis. Then, treatments will be ranked in ascending order to total variable costs (TVC)
and dominance analysis will be used to exclude dominated treatments from further analysis of
those treatments costing more but producing a lower net benefit than the next lowest cost
treatment. Marginal rate of return (MRR %) will be eventually being estimated as the percentage
Marginal benfit
ratio of the change in net NB to change in TVC. MRR ( % )= X 100
Marginal cost
Duration: 2 years (2024- 2026)

Location: 2 locations (Bedele and Dabo Hana)
Expected output: Optimum rate of NPS fertilizers rate and Intre row spacing for Finger millet
will be determined
Initiator(s): Alemayehu Abdeta

Responsible person: Alemayehu Abdeta , Gebayehu Chala and Gamechu Deso
Budget Source: IQQO

3. Research Team: Pulses and Oil Crops Technology Research Team
4. Project Title: Development of Mung bean Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone
4.2. Project Code: BeARC/CP/P&O-2024 (1)
Activity Title (1): Mung bean (Vigna radiate L.) Varieties Adaptation Trial
Mung bean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) is an essential short duration, self-pollinated diploid
legume crop with high nutritive significances and nitrogen fixing capacity (Ketinge, et al.2011).
Mung bean is described as the binomial name radiata (L.) Wilczek (J. Keatinge et al., 2011)
which belongs to the angiosperm dicot crops with family Fabaceae. Mungbean is one of the most
important pulse crops, grown from the tropical to sub-tropical areas around the world (Kumari R
et al., 2012). It is an important wide spreading, herbaceous and annual legume pulse crop
cultivated mostly by traditional famers (Ali MZ et al., 2010). The crop is characterized by fast
growth under warm conditions, low water requirement and excellent soil fertility enhancement
via nitrogen fixation (Yagoob et al., 2014). Fertilization of this crop occurs through self-
pollination without requirement of other pollinators like insects, water and wind (Rashid K et al.,
2013). Among legumes, mung bean is well-known for its protein and lysine-rich grain, which
supplements cereal-based diets (Minh NP., 2014). The crop is utilized in several ways; seeds,
sprouts and young pods are all consumed and provide a rich source of amino acids, vitamins and
minerals (Somta P. et al., 2007). The grain contains 24.2% protein, 1.3% fat and 60.4%
carbohydrate (Hussein F et al., 2011). It is also known to be very healthy and packed with a
variety of nutrients such as vitamin B, vitamin C, protein, manganese and a lot of other essential
nutrients required for effective functioning of the human health. Mungbean has low in calories
and rich in fiber and easily digestible crop without cause flatulence as happens with many other
legumes (Minh NP., 2014).
It is also an eco-friendly food grain leguminous crop of dry land agriculture with wealthy basis
of proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Although mung bean can be for food and fodder, its
consumption is varying from place to places. Mung bean is originated from India and it has
diversified to East, South, Southeast Asia (China) and some countries in Africa. It is also a recent
introduction in Ethiopian pulse production and grown in the north eastern part of Amhara region
(North Shewa, Oromiya special zone and Southern Wollo), SNNPR (Gofa area) and pocket areas
in Oromiya region (Hararge). The average yield of the crop is limited to 600-800 kg/ha due to
different reasons (EPP, 2004).
Mung bean is mostly produced in Amhara regional state particularly in some areas of North
Shewa and South Wollo as well as in some woreda’s of Benishangul Gumuz regional state
(Ethiopian Commodity Exchange), 2014). Despite its growing demand in the international
market there is chronic supply gap in Ethiopia from the production side. According to CSA
(2021), Mung bean is grown on an estimated 49,123.52 hectares by 209,599 smallholder farmers.
Its production also reaches 557,928.53 quintals in the country with the average yield 10.74 qt/ha
at national level. Even though, there is no CSA data for Mung bean in Oromia and to the specific
study areas; farmers in the study are very interested for this crop production for market
production and the crop is highly demanded for export market (Farmers reflections).
There is a need to expand its production to potential areas of western Oromia where there is
conducive for production to the crop. The study area is potential for market pulses crops like
Mung bean. Availability and distribution of the varieties is one of factor which affects
production of Mung bean in Oromia particularly in Buno Bedele Zone for the production of
mungbean production potential areas. There is a need to adapt and popularize the released
mungbean varieties in the area. Therefore, this title initiated with the objective to identify
adaptable and high yielder mung bean varieties for the study areas and similar agro ecologies.
Experimental Materials and Design
Four mung bean improved varieties (NVL-1, Rasa, Borada, & Shoarobit) from Melkasa
Agricultural Reearch Center (MARC) will be used as the experimental materials. The
experimental plots will be laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three
replications. The plot size will be L*W=2m*2.4m (4.8m 2) having 5 rows with harvestable plot
area of 2m*2.4m (3.2 m2) with four rows and spacing 40cm between rows and 10cm between
plants. The spacing between plots and blocks were 0.5m and 1m, respectively. NPS fertilizer will
be applied at a rate of 100 kg/ha at planting and other management practices like pest or disease-
control will be practiced.
Days to 50% flowering: - The numbers of days from planting to emergence 50% of plants will
be recorded.
Days to 90% maturity: - The number of days from sowing up to 90% of the plants in the plot
reaches physiological maturity stage.
Plant Height (cm):- The length from the base of the stem of the main tiller to the tip of the main
shoot panicle at maturity will be recorded as the average of five plants per plot and measured in
centimeter.
Number of pod per plant: - All seed contained pods from five randomly taken plants will be
counted.
Grain yield (kg):- the grain yield will be measured from the middle harvestable rows using
sensitive balance and converted to hectare base.
Disease Data (scale):- Common Mung bean diseases such as Mung bean Yellow Mosaic Virus
(MYMV) which is a major cause of failure in Mung bean cultivation in many growing countries,
like Crinkle Leaf Virus, powdery mildew, Cercospora leaf spot, Bacterial Leaf Spot,
Anthracnose, Charcoal rot and other type of diseases, will be scored from each plot at flowering
and pod filling stages. Scoring will be done according to (IBPGR, 1984) disease scales of 1-9%,
where 1=immune, 3=low susceptible, 5=medium susceptible, 7 = susceptible and 9 = highly
susceptible.
Data Analysis
All measured parameters will be subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using Genstat 18 th
Edition to assess the difference among the tested varieties. Mean separation will be carried out
using the Least Significant Difference (LSD) test.
Location/s: 3 locations (Bedele, Gechi & D/Hana) districts
Expected output/s: At least 1-2 best adapted Mung bean varieties will be obtained and
recommended to the study area.
Initiator/s: Mohammed Tesiso
Responsible person: Mohammed Tesiso and Garoma Firdisa
Implementing Center: Bedele Agricultural Research Center (BeARC)
Budget Source: IQQO
4. Project Title: Development of Lentil Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone
Activity Title (2):- Lentil (Lens culinaris L.) Varieties Adaptation Trial in Buno Bedele
Zone

Lentil (Lens culinaris L.) is one of the most important cool season food legumes grown in many
parts of the world as food crop (Erskine et al., 2011) and is one of the highland crops widely
grown in Ethiopia. Lentil (Lens culinaris M.) is an invaluable source of protein for the vast
majority of Ethiopian people. It is largely produced in the highland and semi-highland regions of
the country mainly on clay soil (MoA., 2009 ). The Ethiopian Export Promotion Agency reports
that improved varieties yield 1.4–5.0 t ha-1 on research fields and 0.9–3.0 t ha-1 on farmers’
fields. Lentils are produced in the high altitude areas of Ethiopia. They are a winter crop,
particularly important in Oromia and Amhara and also grown in parts of the SNNPR and Tigray
regions. Small holder’s farmers grow the majority of Ethiopia’s lentils.
Globally lentil production ranking 6th in production among pulses (FAO, 2010). In Ethiopia, the
private peasant holders grow Lentils primarily for the seed which has relatively higher contents
of protein; carbohydrate and calories compared to other legumes and is the most desired crop
because of its high average protein content, fast cooking characteristics and economic benefits
(Kumer et al., 2013). It provides important economic advantages to the small scale farm
households in providing food, feed, cash income, soil improvement and foreign currency
earnings (Matny et al., 2015). Lentil is one of the heavily consumed legumes crops in Ethiopia
and is a popular ingredient of every day diet in the majority of households. Besides being rich in
protein, the ability of crop to use atmospheric nitrogen through biological nitrogen fixation is
economically appealing and environmentally friendly.
Some studies revealed that, regardless of its importance, lentil productivity is still very low in
Ethiopia due to little attention by the research (Chilot et al., 2016). Lentil is mainly grown in the
highlands of Ethiopia where rainfall is usually high (Jarso et al., 2009).
It is widely grown in areas having an altitude range of 1,700-2,400 m above sea level with
annual rainfall ranging from 700-2,000 mm in Ethiopia (David et al., 1996). However, it is
highly susceptible to excessive moisture stress (Mulugeta, 2009) and very sensitive to water
logging and even with short period of exposure it can cause complete crop failure (Brennan et
al., 2002). Lentil is well adapted to various soil types ranging from sand to clay loam when there
is good drainage (Janzen et al., 2014). A soil pH of 6-8 is conducive for lentil production, but it
can also tolerate a moderate alkalinity (Mulugeta, 2009).
In addition, the crop is capable of germinating at a temperature above freezing point but
optimum germination occurs at the range of 18-21°C. On the other hand, a temperature
exceeding 27°C can harm the crop aggressively however the ideal temperature for optimum
growth and yields of lentil is around 24°C (Abraham, 2015). Lentils are grown in different
volumes across the country. Lentils grown in 2020/21 (2008 E.C.) covered 6.1% (100,692.74
hectares) of the legumes crop area produced by 68,6415 private peasant land holders and 5%
(about 1,339,336.41 quintals) of the legumes production was drawn from the lentil crop in
Ethiopia.
This is concentrated in the Amhara and Oromia regions with 54% and 36% producers,
respectively, engaged in production. The two regions account for 93% of the total area occupied
by lentil (CSA, 2020). Even though there are a suitable agro-ecologies and soil conditions for the
production of lentil in study areas, the production of the crop is currently limited to few areas.
There are many improved varieties released by Ethiopian Agricultural Research Institute so far,
however, the improved varieties are not yet introduced to farmers in highland areas of study area.
Therefore, this activity proposed to investigate and select the best adapted Lentil variety for the
study area.
Objective/s
To select adaptable Lentil variety with high grain yield, disease resistance and other desirable
agronomic traits.

Eight (8) Lentil improved varieties namely; Alemaya, Alemtena, Dambi, Derso, Gudo, Teshale
ADA from DzARC (EIAR) and Assano from SARC (OARI) will be used as experimental units.
Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications will be used. The experiment will
have the total of 24 plots and each plots will contain 6 rows with 3m long, so the area of a single
plot will be 3 m *1.8 m = 5.4 m2 . The gap between the block will be 1 m and the spacing
between the plots 50 cm. The spacing between the rows will be 30 cm and seed will be drilled
accordingly.
Data to be Collected
Days to 50% flowering: - The numbers of days from emergence to 50% of plants open flower
will be recorded.
centimeter.
Number of pod per plant: - All seed contained pods from five randomly taken plants will be
counted.
Disease Data (scale):- Common Lentil diseases such as Downy mildew, powdery mildew, stem
and head rot, Leaf spot and leaf blight Rust, will be scored from each plot at flowering and pod
filling stages. Scoring will be done according to (IBPGR, 1984) disease scales of 1-9%, where
1=immune, 3=low susceptible, 5=medium susceptible, 7 = susceptible and 9 = highly
susceptible.
Data Analysis
Analysis of Variance will be done by using R software based on the procedures and Varieties
that showed significant difference were subjected to least significant difference (LSD) tested at
0.05 probability levels for mean separation.
Location/s: 3 locations (Dega, Gechi and D/Hana) districts

Expected output/s: At least 1-2 best adapted Lentil varieties will be obtained and recommended
to the study area.
Budget Source: IQQO

4. Project Title: Development of Sunflower Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone
Activity Title (3):- Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) Adaptation Trial in Buno Bedele
Zone

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is one of the few crop species that originated in North
America (most originated in the Fertile Crescent, Asia or South or Central America). It is a
diploid plant with 2n=34 chromosomes (Fick, 1989). Sunflower oil is widespread because high
quality and is one of the five basic nutrients for human food (Demirer et al., 2004). Sunflower is
categorized as a low to medium drought sensitive crop. The drought-tolerant nature can be
attributed to its extensive root system, which can extract water and nutrients to a depth of 3m.
Sunflower is grown in many semi-arid regions of the world. It is tolerant of both low and high
temperatures but more tolerant to low temperatures. Optimum temperatures for growth are 21.3
to 26°c, but a wider range of temperatures (18 to 35°c) show little effect on productivity.
Extremely high temperatures have been shown to lower oil percentage, seed fill and germination
(Eman, 2015).
Sunflower is one of the most important oil crops and preferable source of edible oil in worldwide
including of Ethiopia. Besides its primary use in human consumption sunflower oil has a wide
range of applications and can be used as a supplement in the chemical industry as well as in the
pharmaceutical industry. Sunflower meal, a side product from oil extraction, is rich source of
protein and it is efficiently utilized when blended with meal of soybean for use in the livestock
feeding (Seiler and Jan, 2010). Sunflower oil is also a rich source of (64%) of linoleic acid,
which helps in washing out cholesterol deposition in the coronary arteries of the heart and good
for heart disease (MOANR, 2016).
Although sunflower is not widely grown in Ethiopia, the country has immense potential for
sunflower production. According to the previous cropping history of the crop, warmer areas with
altitude of 1400-2400 m a.s.l. with well drained clay/sandy loam soil in the Hawassa, Bako, Birr
and Dedessa valley, Debrezeit (Bishoftu) to Nazret (Adama) and Ziway to Arsi-Negele were
suitable production areas.
Those state farms that produce maize used to grow sunflower as one of the break crops in their
rotation plan. During those days, the late maturing cultivar “Russian black” was recommended
for wide-scale production, as it was relatively adapted. Despite the fact that sunflower production
was not significant in the country, currently some private farmers has started to grow due to high
demand for raw material for oil-millers and thus its coverage is started to increase time to time.
According to Central Statistical Authority (CSA 2008/9- 2017/18) of the country, sunflower
production is increased by two fold between years of 2010/11 and 2012/13 with slight increase in
area of production. Despite small area of coverage of the crop, the country possesses large
agricultural land suitable for sunflower production.
Sunflower was grown on about 6,738.00 ha in Ethiopia from which about 7,953.72 tons are
produced in the year 2017, with the average regional yield of 1.18t ha -1 (CSA, 2017). However,
the country grain yield is far less than the attainable yield (2.5 to 3.5 t ha -1) under good
management conditions at farmers field (MOANR, 2016). Low yield of sunflower is attributed to
several production constraints which include shortage of improved varieties, poor crop
management practices, moisture stresses, low soil fertility, diseases and insect pests
(Farahvash et al., 2011).
Sunflower is becoming a high potential crop in south western part of Oromia like in Buno Bedele
and Ilu Abba Bora zones. However, in so far no improved varieties were evaluated yet and
recommended for the area. Therefore, to exploit potential area for sunflower production
evaluating and promoting high yielder sunflower varieties are a paramount importance. Because
of this information generated in this study is helpful to identify best high yielding sunflower
varieties for the area and small scale holder farmers to produce these crops in the future which
will support in food security and income generation.
Hence, the present study was to identify superior sunflower variety/ies in terms grain yield and
desirable agronomic traits from the tested varieties for study areas.
Objective/s
To identify and select an adaptable higher yield, disease resistant and early mature improved
sunflower varieties to the study area.

Five Improved Sunflower varieties namely; X6859, Camara II, NLN 11037,Vincenzo from
Holetta Agricultural Research Center (EIAR) and Oissa variety from AwARC (Awassa
Agricultural Research Center) as experimental units.
The experimental plots will be laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with
three replications. The plot size will be L*W=3m*3.6m (10.8m 2) having 6 rows with harvestable
plot area of 3m*2.4m (7.2m2) with four rows and spacing 60cm between rows and 20cm between
plants. The spacing between plots and blocks were 0.5m and 1m, respectively. NPS fertilizer will
be applied at a rate of 100 kg/ha at planting and 100 Kg/ha (splitting) with other management
practices like pest or disease-control will be practiced.
Days to 50% flowering: - The numbers of days from emergence to 50% of plants open flower
will be recorded.
centimeter.
Number of primary branches per plant: - Number of primary branches from five randomly
taken plants will be counted and recorded.
Disease Data (scale):- Common Sunflower diseases will be scored according to (IBPGR, 1984)
disease scales of 1-9%, where 1=immune, 3=low susceptible, 5=medium susceptible, 7 =
susceptible and 9 = highly susceptible.
Method of Data Analysis
Analysis of Variance will be done by using R Software based on the procedures and Varieties
that showed significant difference were subjected to least significant difference (LSD) tested at
0.05 probability levels for mean separation.
Location/s: 3 locations (Bure, Bedele and D/Hana) districts

Expected output/s: At least 1-2 best adapted Sunflower varieties will be obtained and
recommended to the study area.
Budget Source: IQQO
4. Project Title: Development of Soybean Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone
4.1. Thematic Area: Breeding and Genetics
Activity Title (4): Soybean Preliminary Observation Nursery (SBPON-2024)

Soybean [Glycine max) Merrill] is an annual legume that belongs to the legume family
Fabaceae. It is a strictly self-pollinating with 1% out-crossing legume crop with chromosomes
number of 2n = 40. Soybean is also the major source of protein rich feed component for
livestock, poultry, pig and fish farms. It is a legume that grows in tropical, subtropical, and
temperate climates having 40% protein, 20% oil and 30% carbohydrate. Soybean plays a very
significant role in world agriculture in the farming systems by enhancing the soil fertility as it
fixes atmospheric nitrogen. It is believed that it might have been introduced to Africa in the
19thcentury by Chinese traders along the east coast of Africa. World demand for soybean has
been able to absorb ever-increasing production at prices that are profitable to producers. Since
1970, world consumption of soybeans has grown at an annual rate of 4.8% on average and, since
the 1990s it showed an annual increase of 5.4% on the average (Flaskerud, 2003).
The yields of soybean in most parts of Africa can increase from 0.5 to 2.5tons ha-1 if the
recommended steps are followed during their production. In most cases when soybean yields
exceed 1.2ton ha-1, farmers are likely to make profits but at less than 0.7tons/ ha farmers may
not be able to recoup the cost of production.
Soybean (Glycine max) is one of the most valuable crops in the world, due to its multiple uses as
a source of livestock and aquaculture feed, protein and oil for the human diet and biofuel besides
producing valuable grain, soybean fixes between 44 and 300kgNha-1 which makes a significant
N contribution to intercropped and rotated cereal crops.
Soybean is mainly used in the daily diet in many Asian, US and in most Western nations. Several
products can be produced from soybean. Soya cheese is soft, white and almost cheese-like food
favored for its versatility, mild flavor and high nutritional value. Since it is naturally processed it
retains the soybean’s important nutrients. It is made from soymilk by adding a coagulant
(calcium sulfate) to the milk to form curds that are shaped and pressed into cakes. Depending on
the coagulant used, tofu (Cheese like food made of curdled soybean milk) is rich in minerals and
is an excellent source of high quality protein (10-15%), polyunsaturated fats, viz. linoleic acids
(5-9%) and B vitamins. Tofu is versatile and nutritious as it can be used in soups, salads,
pastries, sandwiches, and spreads. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and in fiber (as the pulp
was removed), making it easy to digest (Liu, 2004).
Soybean is a multipurpose crop, which can be used for a variety of purposes including
preparation of different kinds of soybean foods, animal feed, soy milk, raw material for the
processing industry, and it counter effects depletion of plant nutrients in the soil resulting from
continuous mono-cropping of cereals, especially maize and sorghum, thereby contributing to
increasing soil fertility (Hailegiorgis, 2010). There is also a potential to intercrop soybean with
maize and sugarcane (Jagwe and Owuor, 2004). Soybean grows from sea level to up to 2000 m
above sea level and it grows under a wide range of temperature, but the optimum for growth and
development is 30 oC whilst for proper emergence of seedlings, a seedbed temperature of 25–33
oC is optimal. The crop requires 500–850 mm water during the growing season. A seed rate of
40–120 kg/ha is used under various planting conditions. Phosphorous fertilization at the rate of
20–25 kg/ha is advisable to help the plants fix atmospheric nitrogen. Depending on the level of
weed infestation, one to three times weeding in the first 6–8 weeks after planting is
recommended to increase yield. Soybeans can mature in 65–150 days after planting depending
on the varieties and their maturity group. Soybean yield is determined by the combination of
genetic, agronomic and environmental factors. The continued advancement of these factors is
important for improving soybean yield potential and allowing growers to achieve the best
economic return from their land. The role of improved genetics has been researched heavily over
decades.
Considering the importance of such information, this research was initiated with the objective of
assessing genetic variability for yield, diseases pests’ resistance and grain quality traits, and
determining the association among the yield components of Soybean genotypes.
Objective
To identify superior genotypes in terms of grain yield, disease resistance and good agronomic
traits for the next breeding stage.

Experimental materials and Design
The experimental materials may consist of more 80-100 genotypes of Soybean including three
(3) standard checks (Katta, Didesa and Chari) which were already adapted in our conditions. The
planting materials will be collected from Jimma and Bako ARCs. The experiment will be laid out
in augmented design with plot size of 2m length with 0.4m row spacing and 0.1m between plants
i.e. 0.4m x 2m = 0.8m2. Planting will be done by hand drilling on mid-June at D/Hana sub-
station. Seed rate to bed used 134kgha -1 and fertilizer will be applied at a rate of 46 kg P 2O5 and
18 kg N in the form of NPS at planting time. All other managements will be applied uniformly to
the entire treatments.
Both plot based data (Days to 50% flowering, Days to maturity and disease severity %) and,
Plant based data such as height (cm), Number of pods per plant, Pod length (cm), Number of
seed per pod, 100 Seed weight (gm), and seed yield (kg ha-1) are will be collected.
Method of Data analysis: All collected data will be analyzed by R-software software
Duration: one year (2023)
Location/s: 1 location (Dhaye sub-site)
Beneficiary: Farmers, Researchers, non-governments, policy makers and other stake holders
Expected output/s: Better adaptable, disease tolerant and high yielder expected to select for
PYT.

4. Project Title: Development of Faba bean Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone
4.1. Thematic Area: Agronomy
Title 5:- Response of Rhizobium Inoculation and P Fertilizer Levels on Growth, Nodulation
,Yield and Yield Components of Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) under acid Soil of Bedele
Southwestern Ethiopia.

Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is an important legume crop that contains a high protein amounting to
33% and is consumed worldwide as protein source by humans (Dhull et al., 2022). It is also a
crop of considerable importance as a low-cost food rich in carbohydrates (Keatinge et al., 2011).
In addition to its great nutrition content, faba bean plays an essential role in crop rotation. It has
the ability to fix nitrogen, and provide a significant level of nitrogen from the soil air using a
symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium bacteria (Raza et al., 2020). Depending on the plant
density and the field management, this plant is able to fix nitrogen up to 40 kg ha−1 annually
(Ledgard, 2001). Like the other members of Fabaceae, V. faba also increases the humus of soil
(Tripolskaja et al., 2023).
Faba bean is one of the oldest crops in the world most probably domesticated in the late
Neolithic period (Tanno & Willcox, 2006). Faba bean is sometimes referred to as broad bean,
horse bean, tic bean, or †Field bean (Cubero & Nadal, 2005). Globally, it is the third most
important cool-season food legume after chickpea and †Field pea with concentrated in nine
major agro-ecological regions. In Ethiopia, faba bean is grown largely by subsistence farmers,
during the cool season (June to September) (Woldekiros, 2018). In the CS A (2021/ 2022)
cropping season, out of a total grain crop area, 13.75% (1676888.30 ha) are under pulses. From
this area, faba bean took up 4.27% (about 520,551.7 ha) of the grain crop area. In terms of
production, pulse contributed 9.66% (about 31,680,193.33qt) the grain production. Among
pulses, faba bean accounted for 3.33% (10916093.35qt).
In Oromia, faba bean is grown largely by subsistence farmers, during the cool season (June to
September) (Chimdi et al., 2022). In the CSA (2021/ 2022) cropping season, out of a total grain
crop area (714661.85 ha) are under pulses. From this area, faba bean (253,157.60 ha) of the grain
crop area. In terms of production, pulse contributed (14,362,698.64qt) the grain production.
Among pulses, faba bean accounted for (5777115.5qt). Agricultural productivity in the Buno
Bedele is declining due to the loss of fertility, which is caused by soil erosion and poor land
management, and the productivity of the crops under smallholder farmers is not more 23.59 qt
ha−1. Among biotic categories, declining soil fertility and low pH (acidity) are the most
determinant for low productivity of the most crops (Getahun et al., 2019). The main means of
livelihood in the district are agriculture, which is based on mixed farming by the small
landholders. Agriculture in the Buno Bedele is predominantly rain-fed, and the amount,
reliability, and distribution of rainfall are important determinants for crop yield. Majority of the
farmers are depending on cereals and pulses. Strain application in general can supply balanced
nutrients for crop throughout a growing season and improve the quantity and quality of crops
while at the same time enhances and sustains soil fertility particularly if applied together with
chemical fertilizer. However, the present blanket fertilizer recommendation did not consider the
integrated soil fertility management in the study area. Thus, it is important to have sufficient
knowledge and evidence to find the best management alternatives that can solve location-
specific nutrient problems and can supply crop nutrient requirement that is environmentally
friendly and economically easy to buy by farmers. Therefore, the study was aimed to fill the
gap regarding the combined use of strain and P 2O5 fertilizer in enhancing soil fertility and
increasing faba bean production under acid Soil of study area.
2.1. Description of the Study Area.
2.2. Treatments and Experimental Design.
Thee experiment will be laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with
factorial arrangement and replicated three times. The treatments consist of five rates of P2O5
fertilizer (0, 23, 46, 69, and 92 kg ha −1) and isolates of rhizobium inoculants Fb18 and
uninoculant; the recommended rate of P2O5 and strain are 500 gm. and 46 kg P 2O5 ha−1
respectively. Walki variety of faba bean will be used for trial. Each plot will be 3.2 m × 2 m =
6.4m2. The spacing between blocks and plots will be 1.0 m and 0.5 m, respectively. Each plot
has 8 rows, spaced 40 cm apart, and the spacing between plants within row will be 10 cm. One
outer most row on each side of the plot and two plants (20 cm) on each end of rows will be
considered border. One row next to the border rows on any side will be used for destructive
sampling. The net plot will consist of 4 central rows of 2 m length and 1.6 m width, and each
will be used for data collection and measurements.
Table 1. Treatments combination arrangement
Inoculation
T.no (FB18) Variety P205-Rate Combination treatment
/EAL1018 Kgha-1
1 With Walki 0 EAL 1018 +Walki+0P2O5
2 With Walki 23 EAL 1018 +Waki +10P2O5
3 With Walki 46 EAL 1018 + Walki + 20P2O5
4 With Walki 69 EAL 1018 + Walki + 30P2O5
5 With Walki 92 EAL+ Walki + 40P2O5
6 With out Walki 0 0+Walki+0P2O5
7 With out Walki 23 0+Waki +10P2O5
8 With out Walki 46 0+ Walki + 20P2O5
9 With out Walki 69 0 + Walki + 30P2O5
10 With out Walki 92 0+ Walki + 40P2O5
2.3. Experimental Procedures and Field Management.
The experimental field will be ploughed using oxen drawn three times according to farmers’
conventional farming practices. The first, second, and third plough will be performed at the end
of May, middle of June, and end of June before planting the crop, respectively. The gross plot
size will be 2.0 m × 3.2 m (6.4m 2). The total area of the trial site will be 284.2 m 2, and the net
plot size will be 1.6 m by 2 m (3.2 m 2). The blocks will be separated by a 1-m-wide open space,
whereas the plots within a block will be separated by a 1.0-m space from each other. The plots
will be leveled manually. Before planting, the seed will be mixed with rhizobium until all
coating attained and spread on flat plywood under shade and allowed to air for 30 minutes, and
then, the phosphorous fertilizer will be applied at different rates, and dried seeds of faba bean
will be planted by hand at 40-cm inter- and 10-cm interplant spacing by planting two seeds per
hills. The recommended seed rate is 200 kg ha−1. P fertilizers are applied (drilled) to all rats at
planting. As an initial dose, nitrogen fertilizer in the form of urea (46% nitrogen) will be
applied at a rate of 20 kg per hectare. All necessary agricultural cultivation measures (tillage,
weeding, etc.) are uniformly carried out on all plots according to cultivation recommendations.
The crop is hand-harvested when 90% of the leaves and pods are yellow, dried in the sun until
a constant dry weight is reached, and then threshed. Threshing is done by hand, plot by plot.
3 .4 Data to be collected
3.4.1 Phonological and growth parameters
Days to Emergency: When 50% of the seedlings in each plot had emerged from the soil, the
number of days required for germination will be recorded and judged by visual observation.
Days to 50% flowering: Determined by visual observation and counting the number of days
from planting until 50% of the plants begin flowering.
Days to 90% physiological maturity: It is recorded as the number of days from emergence
until approximately 90% of the plants in the plot have mature pods at the top and the pods turn
yellow at the bottom of the plants.
3.4.2 Nodulation parameters
Total number of nodules:-Nodule populations are assessed at 50% of flowering. Ten
randomly selected plants are uprooted and the roots are cleaned by washing away the attached
soil with tap water. Remove the tops and sides of the roots separately from the nodules and
spread them out on a sieve for a while until all the water has been drained from the surface of
the nodules.
Total Number of effective nodule:-The number of active nodules per plant will be counted
and averaged per plant. The color inside of the nodule will be observed by cutting with a sharp
blade and a pink to dark-red color will be considered as effective whereas a green colored one
will be identified as none effective nodules
Nodule fresh weight (g per plant):-Nodules will be collected from 10 sample plants and
pooled from each plot containing dissected nodules for color determination. Their fresh weight
is measured using a highly sensitive constant weight balance and taken as the mean nodule
fresh weight of 10 plant samples expressed as nodule fresh weight accordingly

Nodule dry weight (gm. per plant):-Nodules will be collected from 10 sample plants and
pooled from each plot containing dissected nodules for color determination. Their dry weight is
determined by drying weight in an oven at 70°C for 24 hours, until will be gate constant
weight.
3.4.3 Growth parameter
Plant Height (cm):-Plant height is measured at physiological maturity from the soil surface to
the top of each plant for five randomly selected plants from the central region. The average
height of five plants at physiological maturity will be determined from each plot.
Number of main branches:-Physiological maturity is determined by counting primary
branches on the main stem of five randomly selected plants from each mesh plot.
Crop stands count at harvest: The total number of plants will be counted only from net
harvestable plot areas (five central rows) at harvesting.
3.4.4. Yield and yield components:
Number of pods (count): all seed contained pods from ten randomly taken plants will be
counted.
Number of seeds (count): the total numbers of seeds in pods from ten randomly plants will be
counted.
Hundred seed weight (g): one hundred randomly counted seeds from the middle harvestable
rows will be weighed using sensitive balance.
The total above ground-biomass: - from the net plot area of each plot will be harvested and
sun-dried for two weeks with an average air temperature of 25–27 °C till complete drying will
be attained. Then grain yield will be separated and determined from the total biomass yield.
The grain yield is then dried, threshed, cleaned and adjusted to the 13% moisture content.
Harvest index: - will be determined by dividing the economic yield with total dry biomass
yield
Grain yield (kg/ha): the grain yield will be measured from the middle harvestable rows using
Soil Sampling and Analysis
Soil samples will be taken randomly in a zigzag pattern from the entire experimental field at the
depth of 20 cm from the top soil layer before sowing using an augur. These samples will be
composited into a bucket. The soil will be broken into small crumbs and thoroughly mixed.
From this mixture, a sample weighting 1 kg will be filled into a plastic bag. The soil will be air-
dried and sieved through a 2 mm sieve. The sample will be replicated three times and prepared
for determining soil textural class, soil pH, organic carbon, total N, available P, and CEC. Soil
analyses will be made at the Soils Laboratory of Bedele Agricultural Research Center. Those
parameters will be done after harvest.
4.3 Data Analysis
Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is performed using Statistical Analysis Software (SAS) version
9.0 (SAS, 2014). Whenever the treatment effect is significant, the mean separation value is
determined using the LSD (Least Significant Difference) test with a probability level of 5%.
4.4 Partial Budget Analysis
An economic analysis will be performed to examine the economic feasibility of treatment.

Average yields are adjusted downward to reflect the difference between the yield of
experimental plots and what farmers would expect from the same treatment. Average market
prices for Faba beans (birr kg/ha) and official prices for synthetic and urea fertilizers are used
in the analysis. There is a labor cost involved in applying the TSP and urea fertilizer levels are
recorded and used for analysis. Yield prices for Faba beans are assessed by the average market
price in the city. Net income (benefit) and other economic analyzes are based on formulas
developed by the CIMMYT methodology (Derek, 1988).
Location: 2 locations (D/Hana and Didesa) districts
Expected output:- Optimum rate of TSP fertilizer and the effects of Rhizobium inoculum on
nodule formation with Faba bean Varieties.
Initiator(s): Garoma Firdisa and Mohammed Tesiso
Responsible person: Garoma Firdisa and Mohammed Tesiso
Budget Source: IQQO

3. Research Team: Horticulture and spices Technology Research Team
4. Project Title: Development of Hot pepper Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone
4.2. Code of the project: BeARC/CP/Hort-2024 (1)
Activity Title (1): Hot Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Observation Nursery in Buno
Bedele Zone
Hot pepper is an important spice and vegetable crop in tropical areas of the world and it
belongs to the night shade family Solanaceae. According to FAO (2020), the total cultivated
area of dry and green pepper in the world were 1,615,140 and 2,069,990 hectares with the
production of 4,157,205 and 36,136,996 tons respectively. The productivity of the crop in this
year was 2.57 and 17.46 t/ha which is increased by 0.17 and reduced by 0.89 t/ha for dry and
green peppers as compared to the production year of 2019 respectively (FAO, 2020).
Hot pepper is an important spice and vegetable crop in the world and in Ethiopia. It is a source
of nutrition, foreign currency and cash for the smallholder farmers. Hot pepper has been
produced in Ethiopia for long period of time. Different types of peppers such as bell (sweet)
pepper, which is not pungent, chili (mitimita) and hot pepper (berbere), which are the pungent
type, are produced in the country (Asfaw Zeleke and Eshetu Derso, 2015).
According to CSA (2019), the estimated dry pepper production of Ethiopia is 307,457.11 tons
on about 172,142.2 ha while that of green pepper is about 62,247.56 tons on 10,473.1 ha. The
average productivity of pepper in the country is thus 1.79 and 5.94 t/ha for dry and green
pepper, respectively. Hot peppers are one of the major contributors to the Ethiopian households
and national economy. However, the production and productivity of hot pepper is constrained
by different factors. In Ethiopia, hot peppers are usually planted at an altitude of 1400 to 1900
meter above sea level (MoARD, 2009). Production of the zone is 52.66 31qt per hectare which
is lower than both the national and regional production (CSA, 2020).
The productivity of the crop is low due to many limiting factors such as shortage of adapted
high yielding varieties, using unknown seed sources and poor-quality seeds, poor irrigation
system, lack of information on soil fertility, the prevalence of fungal and bacterial as well as
viral diseases, lack of awareness on existing improved technologies and poor marketing system.
Diversity studies are an essential step and pre-requisite in plant breeding and could produce
valuable knowledge for crop improvement programmers (Pujar et al., 2017). The presence of
genetic variability in crops is essential for its further improvement by providing options for the
breeders to develop new varieties and hybrids (Shimeles, 2018). Hence, generating information
on the degree and pattern of genetic diversity of the hot pepper genotypes were less evaluated
identically using either molecular or morphological studies in Ethiopia.
The evaluation and the documentation of existing diversity are essential to maintain an active
basis for the exploration of the genetic variability in pepper breeding programs (Shimeles et al.,
2016). Analysis of genetic diversity using quantitative or predictive methods has been used in
the analysis of composition of populations. However, the magnitude of this diversity has not
yet evaluated. Therefore, the objectives of this study will be, to estimate phenotypic and
genotypic variations, Genetic variability, heritability, expected genetic advance, correlation
coe¨cient of yield, yield related traits in the hot pepper, make the necessary information
available for future breeding, and crop improvement programs in genotypes.
A total of 63 genotypes will be obtained from the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute (EBI),
McARc and as well as collected from different areas of the zone. Three adapted variety of hot
pepper melkashote, melkaawaze and marko fana will be used as standard check. Seeds of each
hot pepper genotypes will be sown in seed bed of 0.6 m 2 (3 rows, 0.2 m spacing between
rows, 1 m row length) during 2024 to raise seedlings. Seedlings will be transplanted to main
field 48 days after seed sowing, that is, when the seedlings attained 15 cm height. Each
genotype will planted in the main field in a plot size of 8.4 m2 (2.8 m × 3 m). Each plot will
consist four rows of 3 m length with inter and intra-row spacing of 0.7 and 0.3 m, respectively,
containing a total of 40 plants. Each incomplete bloc and replication will be spaced 1 and 1.5
m, respectively.
Data to be collected and Measurement

Days to emergency: is recorded at the time of emergency starting.
Days to flowering: late and early flowered plants will be recorded and analyzed.
Days to maturity: it is also recorded and analyzed.
Plant height: it will be measured with a centimeter after maturity ending.
Number of brunches per plant: it will be visually counted by hand and recorded.
Number of fruits per plant: This will be counted from three plants and recorded.
Fruit diameter: is measured by caliper and analyzed.
Fruit length: Fruit length will be measured by centimeter
Marketable Fruit: it will be separated from unmarketable fruit and weighted for analyzing.
Unmarketable Fruit: Fruits are gathered and weighted on one side for analyzing.
disease symptom, 3= resistant, 5=moderately tolerance, 7= susceptible and 9= highly
susceptible. The disease will be scored at weekly intervals starting from the first disease spot
symptom appearance and will be continued until the final stage when the disease attained
maximum (Villegas et al., 2012).
Data Analysis
The collected data will be subjected to statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SAS
software. Significant difference between and among treatment means will be assessed using the
least significant difference (LSD) at 0.05 level of probability.
Duration: 1 year (2024 G.C)

Location: 2 locations (Dabo Hana and Bedele) if seedlings are available for two locations
Expected output: best performed hot pepper genotypes will be promoted to Preliminary yield
trial
Initiator(s): Alemayehu Abdeta and Tolasa Tamiru
Responsible person: Alemayehu Abdeta and Tolasa Tamiru
Budget Source: IQQO

4. Project Title: Development of Coriander Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone
Activity Title (2): Adaptation Trail of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) Varieties in
Ilubabor and Buno Bedele Zones
Coriander (Coriandrum sativum ) is annual plant belonging to the Apiaceae family
(Parthasarathy et al., 2008). It is the most useful essential oil bearing spices as well as
medicinal plants (Mandal and Mandal, 2015). The green herb is used as spice and vegetable
(Dyulgerov et al., 2013). Coriander is a culinary and medicinal plant native to Mediterranean
and Western Asian regions (Maroufi et al., 2010) and cultivated worldwide (Weiss et al.,
2002).
Ethiopia is considered as the homeland for many spices such as korarima, long pepper, black
cumin, white cumin/bishops weed and coriander (International Trade Centre, 2010; Hilde
and Daphne, 2003). Coriander plays also an important role in the Ethiopian domestic spice
trade and its seeds are used for the flavoring of ‘berbere’ (which is a spiced, hot red pepper
powder used for numerous meat and vegetarian dishes), ‘injera’, cakes and bread and its leaves
added as an aromatic herb to ‘wot’ and tea (Jansen, 1981). The presence of essential volatile oil
helps them to add taste and flavor. They are used as a condiment in the preparation of pickling
spices, sausages and seasonings, and for flavoring pastry, cookies, buns and cakes, and tobacco
products. The fruits are considered to be carminative, diuretic, antibilious, refrigerant and
aphrodisiac (Singh and Bhandari, 2015).
Coriander, according to the climatic conditions, is cultivated as a summer or winter annual

crop. Coriander is tropical or subtropical crop and can tolerate heat and drought. For leaf
purpose, coriander is grown all year round. It can fairly tolerate light frost and high
temperature. In Ethiopia, coriander is an important cash crop for farmers in the relatively
highland areas. It is often cultivated in altitude ranges from 1200 to 2200 m above sea level.
The success of coriander production is influenced by genetic, weather and agronomic factors
(Nowak and Szemplinski, 2014). The success of coriander production is influenced by genetic,
weather and agronomic factors (Nowak and Szemplinski, 2014).Even though Ethiopia is a
center of diversity for the crop research is not focused to the crop. Similarly, Coriander spice is
used for a long period of time in Buno Bedele and Ilubabor zone.
Even though Ethiopia is a center of diversity for the crop, the attention given so far in research
and development was very limited. In order to diversify its production, availability and increase
the income of the farmers, it is important to evaluate the adaptability of improved Coriander
varieties to the Buno Bedele and Ilubabor zone. Therefore, this study will be initiated with the o
bjective to select and recommend adaptable and high yielding coriander variety(s).
Treatments and Experimental Design
The treatments will consists of Six released improved Coriander varieties (Indium 01, Walta’i,
Batu, Tulu,Gadisa and Denkinesh) will be obtained from Tepi, Kulumsa, Sinana and Adami
Tulu Agricultural Research Center and evaluated at on-farms. The experimental design will be
RCBD with three replication and plot size will be 3 m * 2.4 m with 0.3m between rows. The
spacing between plots and adjacent blocks were 0.5 m and 1m, respectively. Seed rate of 15
kilograms per hectare and fertilizer rates 100 kg of urea (at planting and top dressing) and 100
kg of blended will be applied and all agronomic practices such as land preparation and weeding
will be done uniformly for all treatments.
Sample plants will be selected from the net experimental plot excluding the border plants to
avoid the border effect. Sample of 18 plants (10 sample plants for green leaf yield analysis, 5
sample plants for morphological characters and 3 sample plants for dry matter analysis) will be
selected randomly for recording data on different growth and yield contributing
characters.Based on this information data to be collected will be Plant Phenology and Growth
(Days to 50% emergence, Days to 50% flowering, Days to 90% maturity, Plant height (cm),
Number of branches per plant), Yield and Yield Components (Number of pods per plant,
Number of seeds per pod, 1000 seed weight (g) and Seed yield (kg/ha ).
Method of Data Analysis
All measured parameters will be subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using Genstat
18th Edition software to analyze all the collected data from individual locations and the
combined data over locations. Mean separation will be carried out using the Least Significant
Difference (LSD) Test.
Duration: Two Years (2024-2025 G.C)

Location: 3 locations (Gechi and chora districts from Buno and Bure from Ilubababor zone)
Expected output: Well adapted and higher coriander variety will be identified and
recommended.
Initiator(s): AlemayehuAbdeta and TolasaTamiru
Responsible person: Alemayehu Abdeta and TolasaTamiru
Budget Source: IQQO
4. Project Title: Development of Tomato Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone
Activitiy (3): Evaluation of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) Varieties for Seed
Yield and Yield Components under Buno Bedele Condition, South Western Ethiopia
1. Background and justification

Tomato is an important vegetable crop grown around the globe and is second next to potato
(Getahun et al., 2021). Tomato is a relatively short duration crop and gives a high yield, it is
economically attractive and the area under cultivation is increasing daily. It is rich in nutrients
such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are important to well-balanced human diet
(Getahunn et al., 2016).
In Ethiopia tomato is one of the most important and widely grown vegetable crops, both during
the rainy and dry seasons for its fruit by smallholder farmers, commercial state and private
farms (Ambecha et al., 2015). Tomato can be grown in Ethiopia between 700 and 2000 m
above sea level with about 700 to over 1400 mm annual rain fall, in different areas and seasons,
in different soils, under different weather conditions (Getahun et al,. 2021). Preferably, soils for
tomato cultivations are loamy sand to silt loam and optimum pH range is 5.5 to 7 (variety
release booklet, 2021).
The diverse climatic soil conditions of Ethiopia allow cultivation of a wide range of fruit and
vegetable crops including tomato.According to CSA of 2021, a land of 6012.28 hectare has
been cultivated in Ethiopia with a production and productivity of 349472.28 quintals and 58.13
quintal per hectare respectively. Buno Bedele area has enormous potential for successful
production of tomato that can be produced both by rain fed and irrigation but a lower fruit yield
is obtained as compared to the national Average.
Poor agricultural practices and lack of disease and pest resistance varieties lead to low quality
and yield of tomato. Insect and diseases, not only cause reduction of product and quality, but
also increase cost of production (Tesfaye et al., 2016). Production of tomato in Buno bedele
zones is not able to meet the domestic demand due to lack of improved variety
To date,farmers produce locally known tomato variety on their gardens which is very small in
size and low fruit yield. This due to no research effert has been conducted in area to assess the
potential of tomato varieties for quality seed production. Therefore, it is important to evaluate
different tomato hybrid varieties to recommend high fruit yielding variety for the study area.
Thus, the objective of this study will be to evaluate and select better adapted tomato hybrid
varieties for disease tolerance and high yielder in the study area and similer agro-ecology
2. Material and Method
Planting Materials
Twelve known and those believed to be feasible to Ethiopian agro-ecology Shanty, Irma,
Galilea ,Briget 40, Anna, Eden, Barnum,Topspin ,Rainbow,Galilea 86 and Tesha will be taken
from PLc. The adaptability and yield performance of tomato varieties will be carried out on
three locations of major tomato growing areas of Central Ethiopia on farmers and researcher
fields.
Treatments and experimental design:
Tomato varieties will be used in the experiment as expromental material.The seeds of all the
varieties will be obtained from Melkasa Agricultural Research Center (MARC)
Experimental procedures
The study will be conducted under irrigation during dry season.Seedlings will be raised in
nursery beds at Nursery Site ; the beds of 5×1 m size will be seed rates of 400gm of seed with
high with 90% germination is enough to plant one hectare of land. The seeds will be sown in
rows spaced 15 cm apart and covered lightly with fine soil before irrigation. The beds will be
irrigated every day until the seeds germinated fully and twice a week afterwards. Seedlings
were thinned until an intra-row spacing of 3 cm was achieved.
Recommended agronomic practices such as weeding, cultivation, irrigation, fertilizer

application, staking and disease management will be carried out uniformly during the growing
season for all plots. Similarly, pre-plant granular, NPS at a rate of 200 kg/ha and urea fertilizer
at rate 100 kg/ha will be applied. Experimental plots will be irrigated every day for the first two
weeks to secure uniform establishment and then at weekly interval. Disease will be managed by
application of recommended fungicides (Ridomil at mz 63%) at a rate of 3.5 kg/ha in seven
days intervals.
The following data on seed yield and yield components will be collected:
Fruit diameter (cm): Five fruits will be used for measuring fruit diameter. The diameter will
be measured at the center of the fruit with the help of vernier caliper. The mean fruit diameter
will be computed and expressed in centimeters. Average will be measured by taking the mean
weight of all ripe fruits from five tagged plants in successive harvests and expressed in gram
per plant
Marketable Fruit number per plant: The average number of marketable fruit per plant in
successive harvest from ten sample plant.
Marketable Fruit weight per plant (t/ha): This will calculated by dividing total marketable
fruit weight per plot to total number of plants harvested per plot.
Fruit yield (t/ha): The matured fruits will be harvested from five tagged plants at each picking
and the total fruit yield will be recorded.
Number of seeds per fruit: Number of seeds per fruit will be counted manually and added the
mean number of seeds per fruit will be worked out
Seed weight per plant (g): The total seed weight of five randomly selected plants will be
recorded and the mean seed weight per plant in grams was record
Seed yield (kg/ha): Seed yield per ha will be calculated based on seed yield per plot and
expressed in kilogram per hectare
Thousand seed weight (g): Three samples of 1000 seeds from each treatment will be taken at
random and weighed and the mean weight of 1000 seeds was expressed in grams.
Data Analysis
All measured parameters will be analyzed using the GLM procedure of SAS Version 9.2
statistical software and treatment means were also compared using LSD value at 5%
significance level. Pearson’s correlation within yield parameters and its components will be
also evaluated using Pearson correlation analysis of SAS Version 9.2 statistical software (SAS.
2002)

Location: 3 (Bedele, Gachi and Chora districts)
Expected output: Well adapted and high yielder tomato variety will be identified and
recommended under irrigation.
Implementing Center:Bedele Agricultural Research Center
Budget Source: IQQO
4. Project Title: Development of Avocado Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone
Activity Title (4): Adaptation Trail of Avocado (Persea americana) Varieties in Buno
Bedele Zones
Avocado (Perseaamericana Mill.) is a native tree of Central American countries, the northern
coast of South America and the West Indies (Flores et al, 2019). Cultivation of avocado for
commercial purposes began in California and Florida and then in Israel, South Africa and Chile
(Haile et al, 2022). It belongs to the Lauraceae family (Maranca, 1980). An avocado are rich in
unsaturated lipids, improves and maintain healthy heart and circulatory system and it is valuable
source of energy. It is rich in calorie, vitamin E, ascorbic acid, vitamin B6, B-carotene, and
potassium ( Tan et al., 2017).
Currently, the cultivation of avocado is spreading through the country with satisfactory
adaptation to different agro-ecologies. Avocado is a fruit grown mainly in warm temperate and
subtropical climates throughout the world (Tan et al., 2017; Flores et al., 2019). However,
limited cultivation areas, high nutritional value and a distinctive flavor are the causes for high
prices for avocados in world markets (Poudel et al. 2018).
In Ethiopia Avocado was first introduced in 1938 by private orchardists in Hirna and
Wondogenet and gradually adapted to different agro ecologies of the country (Etissa 1997).
Ethiopia has suitable agro-ecology for the production and cultivation of different tropical, sub-
tropical and temperate fruits Teklay et al. (2016). In Ethiopia, avocado covers the area of 17.26%
of the fruit crops next to banana. More than 777,430.692 ton of fruits were produced in the
country. Avocado took up 10.47% of the fruit production and its production is mainly
concentrated in southern part of Ethiopia followed by Oromia, Amhara and Benishan Gul-
Gumuz (CSA, 2022).
Ethiopia has suitable agro-ecology for the production and cultivation of different tropical, sub-
tropical and temperate fruits (Teklay et al. 2016). According to CSA (Central Statistical Agency)
(2020/2021) report, in Ethiopia the total production of avocado was 30,587.74 and 2,453,356.28
quintals, respectively. Currently, Avocado national productivity in Ethiopia is 5 t/ha (CSA, 2022)
which is very low as compared to the world average production 8t/ha (FAOSTAT, 2019). As
compared to Buno Bedele’s zone, it is produced on 261.23 ha of land with production and
productivity of 11, 51.901t and 4.41 t/ha respectively. Here the national average production is
lower than the world average production while the zonal average is lower than both average
productions.
In Ethiopia avocado production is constrained by, shortage of improved cultivars and

dependence on local cultivars which are poor yielding and poor quality that does not satisfy the
international and domestic market demand in volume and quality (Jalata, 2021). In addition to
these, absence of broad genetic base, poor knowledge on nutritional value of fruits, lack of
improved planting material and production technology, lack of appropriate postharvest
technology, disease and insect pest and marketing problems are among the constraints associated
with fruit production in Ethiopia (Derbew and Soon, 2015).
Buno Bedele zone is a potential for avocado production but farmers are exposed to lower
avocado production. This is due to using local variety from year to year for production, grafting
similar types of variety (shorter, longer, wider variety, sweeter variety and higher yielder and
resistant variety have not been identified) less quality facility for grafting and technical error
during grafting.
Small holder farmers in south western Ethiopia, specifically around Buno Bedele area have been
cultivating the local cultivar of avocado which is low in yield. Even farmers and some avocado
multipliers are working cooperatively still but they multiply and graft what they get. Hence the
need to introduce improved avocado cultivars to the target area is crucial to boost the production
and productivity. As a result the study will be designed to select high yielding and quality
avocado cultivars for the study area.
Experimental Materials
Seedlings of six improved Avocado varieties namely Ettinger, Fuerte, pinkarton,
Hass, Naba and Bacon will be collected from Melkassa Agricultural Research Center,
Ethiopia to test the performance of the varieties during July 2024 and one local cultivar was used
for this experiment.
Design and Experimental Procedure
A completely randomized block designs (RCBD) and replicated three times. Spacing of 6 m
between the rows and 6 m within rows will be used. Four plants were used per plot for the study.
It will have a plot size of 6mx6m (36m2) for each Avocado variety. The planting hole with 60 cm
depth and 60 cm width were prepared two months before planting and grafted seedlings of each
cultivar will be planted in to the prepared pits. An agronomic practice like weeding, watering and
other tree management was followed as per recommendation.
Tree height (m): It will be measuring the height of the largest scaffold branch from the ground
level. Canopy spread: spreading of branches from North to South and From East to West will be
calculated by mean measurements.
Survival percentage: It will be counting and recording number of wilted or dead Avocado
varieties.
Total Yields: yield resulted from the plot will be measured by using the standard sensitive
balance and converted to hectare.
Fruit number per Tree: It will be counting all the fruits per tree and providing the average by
dividing the number of trees per plot.
Average fruit weight (g): 20 fruits will be randomly taken from each tree and making their
average.
Data Analysis
All measured parameters will be subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using Genstat 18 th
Edition software to analyze all the collected data from individual locations and the combined
data over locations. Mean separation will be carried out using the Least Significant Difference
(LSD) Test.
Location: 3 Location (Bedele Dabo Hanna and Gechi districts)
Expected output: Well adapted and higher yielder avocado variety will be identified and
recommended.
Initiator(s): AlemayehuAbdeta and TolasaTamiru
Responsible person: AlemayehuAbdeta and TolasaTamiru
Implementing Center:Bedele Agricultural Research Center
Budget Source: IQQO
4. Project Title: Development of Papaya Technologies for Buno Bedele Zone
Activity Title (5): Adaptation trial of Papaya (Carica papaya L.)Varieties for Production in
Buno Bedele Zone
Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is a short-lived perennial plant in the genus Carica under the family
of Caricaceae (BADILLO, 2000). It is among the most important fruit crops growing mainly in
the tropical and warmest parts of subtropical regions of the world (Mello et al., 2008). Papaya
fruits are very popular due to their high nutritive, medicinal and other multiple uses such as meat
tenderizer (extracted papain), raw materials for cosmetics, soft drinks and food canning
industries and it is one of the high value fruit crops (Cattaneo, 2010).
Moreover, papaya helps the human body to properly digest food and important to control
premature aging (Milind and Gurditta, 2017).Ethiopia is among five top papaya producing
country in Africa (https://www.maps of world.com). Based on CSA of 2022, papaya is produced
on 4697.49 hectares and the production and productivity reaches about 619469.31quintals and
15.0 t ha-1 quintal per hectare in Ethiopia, while in Oromia 2,199.92 hectare of land is covered
-1
with a papaya and production and productivity reaches 256,457.52 quintals as well as 14.0 t ha
respectively and lower than the national productivity
In Buno Bedele zone, it is produced on 92.9 hectare of land with the productivity of 13695.6
quintals. However, the total area covered by papaya and its productivity is very low as compared
to the potential the Buno Bedele area. Lack of improved papaya varieties and low accessibility of
the existing improved varieties are among the major papaya production constraints in Buno
Bedele area. Therefore, this study will be conducted to evaluate the adaptability of newly
released papaya varieties at Buno Bedele, Southwestern Ethiopia to increase the accessibility of
available improved papaya varieties for growers.
Experimental treatments and design
Four papaya varieties namely; Braz-HS1, koka-HM1, Meki-HL-1 will be brought from Melkasa
agricultural research center and planted in RCBD with the local check. It will be planted at the
spacing of 2.5 m between rows 1.5m between plots and 2m between blocks respectively. The
plot size will be 10 m x 7.5 m. Melkassa Agricultural Research Center (MARC) released these
varieties in 2015 cropping season owing to their distinct characters such as fruit size, flesh aroma
and color, fiber, skin thickness, pulp TSS (°Brix) and fruit yield (MoA, 2015). The experimental
treatments were arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design in three replications.
Days to flowering: will be recorded by counting the number of days after establishment
when50% of the plants per plot has the first open flower.
Days to maturity: days to maturity will be recorded when 90% of flower plot will be matured.
Quality parameter: Different parameter’s quality will be identified.
Fruit yield: It will be per plot obtaining and per hectare comparable.
Fruit weight: It will be done by sensitive balance
Fruit diameter: will be taken and measured by cm from three fruits of each variety.
Fruit length: It will be also taken and measured by cm from three fruits of each variety
Number of fruits per plant: will be visually counted from three plants of each variety
Data Analysis
All measured parameters will be subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using software to
analyze all the collected data from individual locations and the combined data over locations.
Mean separation will be carried out using the Least Significant Difference (LSD) Test.

Location: 2 (Dabo Hana and Bedele) districts
Expected output: Well adapted and higher yielder papaya variety will be identified and
recommended.
Budget Source: IQQO

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Bedele Agricultural Research Center (BeARC)

Crop Research Process

Crop Research Project Concept notes for 2024

Compiled by: Gebeyehu Chala

Project Code: BeARC/CP/CR-2024 (1)

Beneficiary: Researchers, Farmers, NGOs, Unions, and other stalk holders

Responsible person: Gebeyehu Chala and Gemechu Deso

Implementing Center: Bedele Agricultural Research Center

Budget Source: IQQO

Project Code: BeARC/CP/CR-2024 (2)

Beneficiary: Researchers, Farmers, NGOs, Unions, and other stalk holders

Initiator(s): Gebeyehu Chala and Gemechu Deso

Responsible person: Gebeyehu Chala and Gemechu Deso

Implementing Center: Bedele Agricultural Research Center

Budget Source: IQQO

Project Code: BeARC/CP/CR-2024 (3)

Duration: 2 years (2024-2025 G.C)

Beneficiary: Researchers, Farmers, NGOs, Unions, and other stalk holders

Initiator(s): Gebeyehu Chala and Gemechu Deso

Responsible person: Gebeyehu Chala and Gemechu Deso

Implementing Center: Bedele Agricultural Research Center

Budget Source: IQQO

Project Code: BeARC/CP/CR-2024 (4)

Initiator(s): Gebeyehu Chala and Gemechu Deso

Responsible person: Gebeyehu Chala and Gemechu Deso

Implementing Center: Bedele Agricultural Research Center

Budget Source: IQQO

Project Code: BeARC/CP/CR-2024 (5)

Treatments and Experimental Design

Experimental Procedure and Field Management

Soil Sampling and Analysis

Partial budget analysis

Duration: 2 years (2024- 2026)

Beneficiary: Researchers, Farmers, NGOs, Unions, and other stalk holders

Initiator(s): Alemayehu Abdeta

Implementing Center: Bedele Agricultural Research Center

Budget Source: IQQO

1. Background and Justification

2. Materials and Methods

Duration: 2 years (2024-2025 G.C)

Location/s: 3 locations (Dega, Gechi and D/Hana) districts

Beneficiary: Researchers, Farmers, NGOs, Unions, and other stalk holders

1. Name of Research Center: Bedele Agricultural Research Center

1. Background and Justification

2. Materials and Methods

Method of Data Analysis

Duration: 2 years (2024-2025 G.C)

Location/s: 3 locations (Bure, Bedele and D/Hana) districts

Beneficiary: Researchers, Farmers, NGOs, Unions, and other stalk holders

1. Background and Justification

2. Materials and Methods

Location/s: 1 location (Dhaye sub-site)

Initiator/s: Mohammed Tesiso

Responsible person: Mohammed Tesiso and Garoma Firdisa

1. Name of Research Center: Bedele Agricultural Research Center

1. Background and Justification

2.3. Experimental Procedures and Field Management.

3.4.1 Phonological and growth parameters