BAHIR DAR UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF AGRICUTLURE AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

Department of Plant Sciences

M.Sc. Program in Horticulture

ASSESSMENT OF PRODUCTION PRACTICES AND EFFECT OF N:P2O5:S RATES ON

YIELD AND YIELD COMPONENTS OF HEAD CABBAGE (Brassica Oleracea var.

capitata) UNDER IRRIGATION CONDITIONS IN LAY ARMACHIO DISTRICT, AMHARA

REGION, ETHIOPA.

M. Sc. Thesis

By

Demoz Kidanie Gebremeskel

March, 2016

Bahir Dar, Ethiopia

i

..............................

BAHIR DAR UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF AGRICUTLURE AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

Department of Plant Sciences

M.Sc. Program in Horticulture

ASSESSMENT OF PRODUCTION PRACTICES AND EFFECT OF N:P2O5:S RATES ON

YIELD AND YIELD COMPONENTS OF HEAD CABBAGE (Brassica Oleracea var.

capitata) UNDER IRRIGATION CONDITIONS IN LAY ARMACHIO DISTRICT, AMHARA

REGION, ETHIOPA.

M. Sc. Thesis

By

Demoz Kidanie Gebremeskel

Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement for the Degree of Master of Science (M.Sc.)

in Horticulture

Major Advisor: Dr. Melkamu Alemayehu Co- Advisor: Dr. Amare Haileselassie

March, 2016

Bahir Dar, Ethiopia

ii

THESIS APPROVAL SHEET

As member of the Board of Examiners of the Master of Sciences (M.Sc.) thesis open defense

examination, we have read and evaluated this thesis prepared by Mr. Demoz Kidanie

Gebremeskel “ASSESSMENT OF PRODUCTION PRACTICES AND EFFECTS OF

N:P2O5:S RATES ON YIELD AND YIELD COMPONENTS OF HEAD CABBAGE

(Brassica Oleracea var.capitata) UNDER IRRIGATION CONDITIONS IN LAY

ARMACHIO DISTRICT, AMHARA REGION, ETHIOPA. We hereby certify that, the thesis

is accepted for fulfilling the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Sciences

(M.Sc.) in Horticulture.

Board of Examiners:

1. _________________________ _____________ _____________

Name of External Examiner Signature Date

2. _________________________ _____________ _____________

Name of Internal Examiner Signature Date

3. _________________________ _____________ _____________

Name of Chairman Signature Date

iii

DECLARATION

This is to certify that this thesis entitled “ASSESSMENT OF PRODUCTION PRACTICES

AND EFFECTS OF N:P2O5:S RATES ON YIELD AND YIELD COMPONENTS OF

CABBAGE (Brassica Oleracea var. capitata) UNDER IRRIGATION CONDITIONS IN

LAY ARMACHIO DISTRICT, AMHARA REGION, ETHIOPA” submitted in partial

fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Science in

Horticulture to the Graduate Program of College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences,

Bahir Dar University by Mr. Demoz Kidanie Gebremeskel (ID. No. BDU 0602059PR) is an

authentic work carried out by him under our guidance. The matter embodied in this project

work has not been submitted earlier for award of any degree or diploma to the best of our

knowledge and belief.

Name of the Student

_________________________

Signature & date _____________________

Name of the Advisors:

1_________________________ (Major Advisor)

Signature & date _____________________

2 _________________________ Co- Advisor)

Signature & date _____________________

iv

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The first and foremost gratitude and praise goes to the Almighty of God, who is helping me in

every aspect of my life, including this thesis work.

It is my pleasure to express my heartfelt appreciation and special gratitude to my advisors Dr.

Melkamu Alemayehu and Dr.Amare Haileselassie for their enthusiastic effort, constructive

guidance, and encouragement, critical review of the manuscript and material support

throughout my research work. Their tireless effort and guidance greatly contributed to the

quality of this thesis work. My heartfelt thanks go to Mr.Yalwe Tezazu (MSc student in

Agronomy, Bahir Dar University College of agriculture and Environmental sciences) for his

technical guidance in SAS and SPSS software application.

I would like to thank North Gondar Zone Agricultural Development office for permitting me

to join the school of graduate studies and the LIVES project (Livestock and irrigation value

chains for Ethiopian smallholders led by the International Livestock Research Institute and

International Water management Institute for giving me the scholarship and covering full

funding of my MSc degree.

I would like also to thank Lay Armachiho District Agriculture and Development Office,

Horticulture and irrigation staff team who facilitated data collection smoothly in the field.

Finally, the completion of my study at the Graduate School of BDU would not have

been successful had it not been for the full understanding and encouragement of my

wife, W/O Meseret Tsehay. Therefore, special appreciation and most grateful

acknowledgements go to her. Deep gratitude and appreciation are conveyed to my brothers

Mamo Kidanie and Atrsaw kidanie my sisters, W/o. Yeashi kidanie and Hanna kidanie, who

have contributed directly and indirectly to my academic undertakings through all the stages.

v

DEDICATION

This thesis is dedicated with love to my mother Wr/o Leka Mengesha Engeda for nursing me

with affection and devoted her life above all to educate me and for her dedication in shaping

me from early school age and paving the way for the success of my life.

I also dedicate this thesis manuscript to my father the late Ato. Kidanie Gebremeskel, he

devoted his interest to my early education and success but not see as I am a man today heartily

wish that God give him peaceful rest forever.

vi

ABBREVIATION/ACRONYMS

@ At the rate of

ANOVA Analysis of Variance

ANRSBoA Amhara National Regional State Bureau of

Agriculture

ANRSBoARD Amhara National Regional State Bureau of

Agriculture and Rural Development

ANRSBoFED Amhara National Regional State Bureau of Finance and

Economic Development

ARARI Amhara Regional Agricultural Research Institute

ARCoSA Agricultural research council of South Africa

AVRDC-ADB An International center of Vegetable Research and

Development - Asian Development Bank

BBS Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics

Cc Cubic centimeter

CEC Cation Exchange Capacity

CIMMYT International Center for Maize and Wheat

Improvement

Cm Centimeter

Cmol (+)/kg Centimoles of positive charge per kilogram of soil

CSA Central Statistical Authority

CV Coefficient of variation

DAP Diamonium phosphate

DAT Days after transplanting

DBT Days before transplanting

DF Degree of freedom

DH Days of Head Initiation

DM Days to Head Maturity

dS/m Desisiemens per meter

EC Electrical conductivity

EC Emulsifiable Concentrate

FAO Food and Agricultural Organization

FAOSTAT Food and Agriculture Organization Statistics

Database

Fig. Figure

G Gram

GPS Global Positioning System

i.e. That is

ICAR Indian Council of Agricultural Research

IHD Indian Horticulture Database

IWMI International Water Management Institute

K Potassium

vii

ABBREVIATION/ACRONYMS (Continued)

K Potassium

Kg /ha Kilogram per hectare

LIVES Livestock and irrigation value chains for Ethiopian

smallholders

LSD Least significant difference

M Meter

M Metric tone

M2 Square meter

MANRS Ministry of Agriculture Natural Resource Sector

Mg Milligram

MoARD Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

MRR Marginal Rate of Returns

MS Mean square

N Nitrogen

NPS 19% N:38% P2O5:7% S

NLP Number of leave per plant

Nrf2 Nuclear factor erythroid 2

OoA Office of agriculture

P Phosphorus

pH Negative logarithm of hydrogen ion concentration

PPM Parts per million

PVSS Private Vegetable Seed Suppliers

RCBD Randomized Complete Block Design

S Sulfur

S.N.N.P.R Southern Nation Nationality, and Peoples’ Region

SAS Statistical Analysis System

SE ± Standard error of mean

SP Spread of plant

SPSS Statistical Package for the Social Science.

SS Sum of Square

t/ha Tons per hectare

viii

ASSESSMENT OF PRODUCTION PRACTICES AND EFFECTS OF

N2:P2O5:S RATES ON YIELD AND YIELD COMPONENTS OF HEAD

CABBAGE (Brassica Oleracea var. capitata) UNDER IRRIGATION

CONDITIONS IN LAY ARMACHIO DISTRICT, AMHARA REGION,

ETHIOPA. By Demoz kidanie Gebremeskel

Major advisor: Dr. Melkamu Alemayehu and Co-adviser: Dr. Amare Haileselassie

ABSTRACT

The study was initiated with the objectives of assessments production practices and to

evaluate the effects different rates of NPS fertilizer on yield and yield components of head

Cabbage under irrigated conditions in Lay Armachiho district, North Gondar, Ethiopia

during 2014/2015. The research has two major components; namely assessing cabbage

production practices in Kerkir Bale’egziabher, Chachkuna and Chira Ambezo kebeles and

evaluating the effects of NPS fertilizer rates in Chira Ambezo kebele. To assess cabbage

production practices data were collected from 32 cabbage producing households using semi-

structured questioners and focus group discussions where demographic structure and the

whole value chain of cabbage production system were collected and analyzed using SPSS

version 16 computer software. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block

Design (RCBD) with three replications and 11 treatments. Data collected on yield and yield

components were analyzed using SAS 9.1 computer software. The results of the survey showed

that head Cabbage farming is a male dominated business (93.75%) with more than 81% of the

respondents older than 33 ages and with a low education back ground (only 9.4 % were 7–8

grades). About 26.7% of the respondents applied DAP in excess rates while 56.7% of them

used low rates of DAP. About 73.3% the respondents over fertilize their field with urea

compared the recommendation rate. Moreover 71.9 % of the farmers applied DAP in 2-3

splits which are not in line with the recommendation. Different NPS fertilizer rates exhibited

significant influence on the yield and yield components of cabbage in this study. Plants treated

with 102.5:115:21.2 kg ha-1 of N:P2O5:S performed best in most of growth and yield

parameters of cabbage. However, plants treated with 82:69:12.71 of N:P2O5:S kg ha-1

recorded the highest marginal rate of return. Cabbage plants without N:P2O5:S fertilizer

applications were inferior in all growth and yield parameters. For enhancement of production

and productivity of cabbage in Lay Armachiho district and other similar environment, it is

necessary to solve problems indicated above through training, extension activities and

improving the supply of inputs. Application of N:P2O5:S fertilizer at the rate of 82:69:12.71 of

N:P2O5:S kg ha-1 can be recommended for the production of cabbage in the study area since it

gave the highest marginal rate of return in this study. However, it is advised to repeat the

experiment to have forceful recommendation.

Keywords: N:P2O5:S fertilizer, DAP, cabbage, yield, marginal rate of return

ix

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Contents page

THESIS APPROVAL SHEET ................................................................................................................. ii

DECLARATION..................................................................................................................................... iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS .................................................................................................................... iv

DEDICATION .......................................................................................................................................... v

ABBREVIATION/ACRONYMS ........................................................................................................... vi

ABSTRACT .......................................................................................................................................... viii

TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................................................ ix

LIST OF TABLES .................................................................................................................................. xi

LIST OF FIGURES ................................................................................................................................ xii

LIST OF APPENDIX TABLES ............................................................................................................ xiii

CHAPTER 2: INTRODUCTION.............................................................................................................. 1

1.1 Background and Justification ................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Objective of the Study .............................................................................................................. 3

1.2.1 General objective of the study .......................................................................................... 3

1.2.2 Specific objectives ............................................................................................................ 3

CHAPTER 3: LITERATURE REVIEW ................................................................................................... 4

2.1 Origin, Distribution and Botany of Cabbage ............................................................................ 4

2.2 World Cabbage Production and Its Importance ........................................................................ 4

2.3 Head Cabbage Production in Ethiopia ...................................................................................... 5

2.4 Effects of Fertilizers on Growth and Yield Performance of Cabbage ...................................... 7

CHAPTER 4: MATERIAL AND METHODS ....................................................................................... 11

3.1 Description of the Study Area ................................................................................................ 11

3.2 Assessment of Production Practices of Cabbage .................................................................... 12

3.2.1 Sampling procedures ...................................................................................................... 12

3.2.2 Irrigation water measurement procedure ........................................................................ 13

3.2.3 Data collection and analysis ........................................................................................... 14

3.3 Response of Yield and Yield Components of Head Cabbage under NPS Fertilizer Rates ..... 14

3.3.1 Treatments and experimental design .............................................................................. 14

3.3.2 Management of the experimental plots .......................................................................... 16

3.3.3 Methods of data collection and analysis ......................................................................... 17

CHAPTER 5: RESULTS AND DISCUSSION ...................................................................................... 19

4.1 Assessment of Head Cabbage production practices ............................................................... 19

4.1.1 Demographic information .............................................................................................. 19

4.1.2 Farming practices ........................................................................................................... 20

x

TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)

4.1.3 Harvesting and postharvest operations of cabbage in the study area ............................. 32

4.1.4 Major constraints and opportunities of cabbage production in the study area ............... 35

4.2 Effects of NPS fertilizer rates on growth and yield components of cabbage .......................... 36

4.2.1 Growth parameters of head cabbage .............................................................................. 37

4.3. Cost benefit analysis ............................................................................................................... 45

CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENADTIONS ........................................................... 49

5.1 Conclusion .............................................................................................................................. 49

5.2 Recommendations................................................................................................................... 49

REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................................ 51

APPENDIX ............................................................................................................................................. 60

ANNEX ................................................................................................................................................... 66

BIOGRAPHICAL SCKETCH ................................................................................................................ 69

xi

LIST OF TABLES

Table page

3.1.Total Household heads, head cabbage producers and interviews households ................................... 13

3.2 Treatment levels used in the study area ............................................................................................. 15

3.3 Field layout of the Experiment .......................................................................................................... 15

4.1 Sex, age, and family size of the respondent household heads .......................................................... 19

4.2 Educational status of the household head in the study kebele ......................................................... 20

4.3 Total landholding and land allocated for cabbage production by household heads in the study

kebeles .............................................................................................................................................. 21

4.4 Experiences of household heads in the production of cabbage and frequency of productionin

the study kebeles .............................................................................................................................. 22

4.5. Varieties used and source of seeds of head cabbage in the study area ............................................. 23

4.6. Practices of transplanting seedlings and production system ............................................................. 24

4.7. Frequency and methods of irrigation water application for cabbage production in the study area

................................................................................................................................................................. 26

4.8. Source of irrigation water for the production of cabbage in the study area ...................................... 27

4.9. Crop water productivity cabbage in the study area .......................................................................... 28

4.10. Fertilizer used for head cabbage ..................................................................................................... 28

4.11.Frequency of fertilizer application for head cabbage ...................................................................... 30

4.12. Insect occurrence and their measurement ....................................................................................... 32

4.13. Length of time to harvest and harvesting stage .............................................................................. 33

4.14. Major problems of head cabbage in the study area ........................................................................ 36

4.15 Effects of NPS fertilizer rate on Plant height, Plant spread and number of leaves per plant of head

Cabbage at 40 DAT ................................................................................................................................. 39

4.16. Effects of NPS fertilizer rates on 50% head initiation and 75% head maturity ............................. 41

4.17. Effects of NPS fertilizer rate on Diameter of Head, Volume of Head and Head Weight............... 43

4.18. Effects of NPS fertilizer rates on cabbage yield in the study area .................................................. 45

4.19. Cost gross income and net profit of cabbage as influenced by NPS fertilizer rates in Lay

Armachiho District ......................................................................................................................... 47

4.20. Marginal rate of return (MRR) of NPS fertilizer rates in Lay Armachiho District ....................... 48

xii

LIST OF FIGURES

Figures page

3-1. Location of the study Chira Ambezo, Kerkir Bale’egziabher, Chachkuna kebele and Lay

Armachiho district, North Gondar, Amhara Region , Ethiopia ........................................................ 12

4-1. Planting space for head cabbage in the study area ........................................................................... 25

4-2. Disease occurrence and their measurements .................................................................................... 31

4-3. Harvesting time of head cabbage .................................................................................................... 34

4-5. Transportation system ...................................................................................................................... 35

xiii

LIST OF APPENDIX TABLES

Appendix Tables page

1. Types and rates of fertilizers used for the production of cabbage in the study area ............. 60

2. ANOVA Table for plant height ............................................................................................ 61

3. ANOVA Table for plant spread ............................................................................................ 62

4. ANOVA Table for number of leaves per plant .................................................................... 62

5. ANOVA Table for 50 % Head initiation .............................................................................. 62

6. ANOVA Table for 75 % Head Maturity ............................................................................... 63

7. ANOVA Table for Volume of Head ..................................................................................... 63

8. ANOVA Table for Diameter of Head ................................................................................... 63

9. ANOVA Table for Weight of Head ...................................................................................... 64

10. ANOVA Table for Marketable Yield per Hectare .............................................................. 64

11. ANOVA Table for Unmarketable Yield per Hectare ......................................................... 64

12. ANOVA Table for Total Yield per Hectare ........................................................................ 65

1

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background and Justification

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata Linn) is an important Cole crops which is a member

of the family Cruciferae or Brassicaceae with 2n=2x=18 chromosome number. It is native of

Western Europe and Northern Shore of Mediterranean Region (Chauhan, 1986; Schlegel,

2010; Singh et al., 2015). Cabbage was originated from the wild, leafy, non - heading types

‘Cole wart’ (Brassica oleracea var. sylvestris) (Grubben et al., 2004; Moamogwe, 2005). The

wild types are still found in Denmark, North-Western France and Eastern England. Cabbage is

one of the most ancient vegetables cultivated for more than 4,000 years (Jensen, 2004;

Schlegel, 2010). It was the first Cole crop to be cultivated by mankind (Silva, 1986) and it was

very popular by Romans (Anonymous, 2011).

Cabbage and other brassicae are produced in more than 145 countries in the world. The

leading cabbage producing countries in the world are China, India, Russian Federation, Japan

and Republic of Korea, respectively. According to FAOSTAT (2013-14), the total area

cultivated under Cabbages in the world is about 2,416,885 hectares with a production of about

70,644,191 metric tons with the average productivity of about 29.23 MT/ha. China and India

produced about 60% of the world cabbage production with share of 46.4 % and 12.8 %

respectively.

In Ethiopia, cabbage is cultivated on 38,000 hectares of land with mean average production of

395,000 tons with irrigation and rainfed. The productivity of cabbage in Ethiopia is very low

(10.4 t ha-1) (FAOSTAT, 2013-14) compared to the world average (29.23 t ha-1). In terms of

cabbage productivity, Republic of Korea and Japan are the leading countries in the world with

71.2 and 67.6t ha-1, respectively (FAOSTAT, 2013-14; IHD, 2014).

Cabbage is used commonly as vegetables. It is also used for salad mixed in tomato, green

chilies, beetroot etc. It is a rich source of sulfur containing amino acids, minerals, carotenes,

ascorbic acid and antioxidants, and is reported to have anti-carcinogenic property (Singh et al.,

2009 and Kopsell et al., 2004). Due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial

properties, Cabbage has widespread use in traditional medicine, in alleviation of symptoms

associated with gastrointestinal disorders (gastritis, peptic and duodenal ulcers, irritable bowel

syndrome) as well as in treatment of minor cuts and wounds and mastitis (Samec et al., 2011).

Also it has some medicinal value as it has a cooling effect, increases appetite, helps prevents

constipation, speeds up digestion and is very useful for diabetic patient (Jensen B, 2004;

2

Malik, 2008; BBS, 2009).

Cabbage is also an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, B1, B2, B6, calcium, dietary fiber

and protein when it is eaten raw as salad and, boiled or cooked as stew or soup (Atkins, 1999;

Mateljan, 2007; Uddin et al., 2009). There are three types of heading cabbage, namely green,

red and savoy. They contain different amounts of nutrients with savoy being more superior

(Pierce, 2007).

Cabbage can be grown in wide range of soils from light sand to heavier clays. Soils with high

organic matter content give the best yields. Early cultivars grow well in light soils, whereas,

late cultivars perform better on heavy soils. Well-drained soils however give larger yields.

Although cabbage is relatively tolerant to salt, in saline soils cabbage plants show leaf margin

dieback and dark foliage which may increase the susceptibility of plants to diseases like black

leg (ARARI, 2005; Rail and Yadav, 2005). The optimum pH of soil for cabbage cultivation is

between 6.0 - 6.5 (Yano et al., 1999).

As cool season vegetable, cabbage grows best under cool moist conditions. The optimum

temperature ranges for growth and head formation of cabbage is 15-20OC. The growth of

most cabbage varieties is arrested when the temperature rises above 25OC (Chadha, 2006).

However above 270C it may bolt and causing the heads to split open (Ashworth, 2002). The

crop is grown in diverse ecologies with altitudinal range of 500 - 3000 m.a.s.l (MANRS,

2011).

Vegetables including cabbage are important crops for food security as well as to generate

income for subsistence farmers (FAO, 2009; Uddin et al., 2009). However the production and

productivity of vegetables including cabbage in Ethiopia is very low as indicated above. The

reasons for that are very complex. Among the bottlenecks improper agronomic practices, lack

of infrastructures, disease and insect pest incidence, improper postharvest handling practices

and etc are the most important once (Tesdeke Abate and Gashawbeza Ayalew, 1994; Akand et

al., 2015; Melkamu Alemayehu , 2015).

Although the amount of fertilizer required depends on the fertility status of the soils (Bok et

al., 2006), cabbage growers in Ethiopia including the study area use blanket recommendation

of 200 kg ha-1 DAP and 100 kg ha-1 Urea in split application is recommended as a source of

phosphorus and nitrogen, respectively, which may not satisfy the nutrient requirements of

cabbage plants (ARARI, 2005; MANRS, 2011). Recently, the Ministry of Agriculture

3

introduced a new fertilizer (NPS) that contains not only nitrogen and phosphorus but also

sulfur with the concentration of 19% N, 38% P2O5, and 7% S.

Moreover, the government of Ethiopia has plan to substitute DAP with NPS in the near future.

However its application rate for the production of cabbage in Ethiopia including the study area

is not yet known. The aim of this study is therefore to assess production practices of cabbage

in order to identify production constraints and to evaluate effects of NPS fertilizer rates on

growth and yield components of cabbage in Lay Armachiho District of North Gondar

Administrative Zone.

1.2 Objective of the Study

1.2.1 General objective of the study

To assess farmer’s production practices and evaluate the effects of NPS fertilizer rates on

growth and yield of head Cabbage under irrigation conditions]

1.2.2 Specific objectives

➢ To assess current farming practices and synthesize major potential and constraints in

farmer`s Head Cabbage production practices

➢ To evaluate the effects of different rates of NPS fertilizer on yield and yield components

of head Cabbage

➢ To determine economically optimum level of NPS fertilizer rate for the production of head

Cabbage in the study area

4

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Origin, Distribution and Botany of Cabbage

Head cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) is originated in the eastern Mediterranean

regions from a wild non-heading type, ‘Cole wart’ (Brassica oleracea var. sylvestries) where it

is still found in Denmark, North-Western France and Eastern England. It is ancient vegetable

crop cultivated long before the dawn of human history. The ancient Greeks regarded it as an

important vegetable crop gifted from God. They cultivated cabbage as early as 600 BC which

was described by Theophrastus in 350 BC (Romain, 2001, Rail and Yadav, 2005).

The wild cabbage is the ancestor of different types of Cole crops such as broccoli, Brussels

sprouts, head cabbage, cauliflower, kohlrabi and other which were the results of the breeding

activities of human being (Romain, 2001; Singh, 2015). In the early times, the ancient Romans

and Saxons cultivated and introduced the softy-headed forms to the British Isles. The hard-

headed types were only mentioned in the 9th century. Heading cabbage types were cultivated in

Germany and England by the 1150s and 14th century, respectively. Currently head cabbage is

produced in most temperate countries and becomes very popular in tropical Africa (Romain,

2001, Rail and Yadav, 2005). The genus Brassica as indicated above includes about 100

species. Most of them are native to the Mediterranean Region (Rail and Yadav, 2005).

The word cabbage is derived from the French word 'caboche', meaning head. Cabbage is a

biennial herb with a short, thickened stem surrounded by a series of overlapping leaves which

form a compact head. The head may be pointed or round. The plant has extensive root system

where the secondary roots can grow up to the depth of 45- 60cm below the soil surface.

Cabbage is not sensitive to photoperiod and flowering is triggered mainly by temperature

below 10oC. Therefore, cabbage seed production is difficult under tropical conditions. The

best yields are obtained in cool and dry season with heads weigh between 2 and 2.5 kg. During

the hot rainy season, the average weight of a head is between 1 and 1.5kg (Romain, 2001).

2.2 World Cabbage Production and Its Importance

Cabbage is a cool season vegetable and produced in most temperate countries. The annual

average world production of cabbage is estimated to be about 70,644,191 tons with the

average productivity of about 29.23 t ha-1. The major cabbage producing countries are China,

India, Russian Federation, Japan and Republic of Korea (FAOSTAT, 2013-14).

5

The Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO, 1988) identified

cabbage as one of the top twenty vegetables used as a source of food globally. Cabbage is

usually consumed as a cooked or stir fried vegetable, or eaten fresh as an ingredient of

coleslaw (a salad made of row sliced and chopped cabbage) and mixed salads (Grubben and

Denton, 2004). It can be also used as processed products such as prickling.

Cabbage supplies essential vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates and vital minerals (Norman,

1992). According to FAO (2000) and Tindall (1983): a 100 g edible portion of cabbage

contains vitamin A (2000 IU), thiamine (0.06 mg), riboflavin (0.03 mg), protein (1.8 g), fat (

0.1g), carbohydrate (4.6 g) and vitamin C (124 mg). Furthermore it contains phosphorus (44

mg), potassium (114 mg), calcium (39 mg), sodium (14.1 mg) and iron (0.8 mg).

Cabbage is known in neutralizing acids, has a cooling effect, it improves digestion and

appetite, prevents constipation and is very useful for diabetic patient (Malik, 2008; BBS, 2009;

Dhemre and Desale 2009). Researches also revealed that crucifer family including cabbage

provides significant cardiovascular benefits (Beecher 1994; Singh et al.,2015) and reduces the

risks of lung, colon, breast, ovarian and bladder cancers (Beecher, 1994).

Glucosinolates are the major organosulfur compounds found in cruciferous vegetables like

cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, brussels sprout, kale, radish, turnip etc. Epidemiological

studies revealed that a diet rich in cruciferous vegetable can reduce several type of cancer like

lungs cancer, colon cancer. Cancer inhibition property of glucosinolate is due to its effect on

Nrf2, polymorphism, anti-inflammatory, inhibition of histone deacetylase activity and

influence on estrogen metabolism (Manchalia et al., 2011).

2.3 Head Cabbage Production in Ethiopia

Cabbage is cultivated in mid altitude and highland areas of Ethiopia. It is mostly produced by

stallholder farmers. Cabbage is mostly produced during the rainy season, although some

commercial farmers produce it during dry season using irrigation. According to CSA

(2012/2013), the average annual production of cabbage in the country during 2012/2013

production season was estimated to be 22,160.3 tons which was produced on 2,913 hectares of

land. Of which Oromia Region with 6,179.5 tons was the larger producer of cabbage followed

by Amhara Region, S.N.N.P.R and Benishangul-Gumuz with 6,179.5, 5,561.3, 110.2 tons,

respectively. However, in terms of productivity, Amhara Region was the leader with 10.7 t ha-

1 followed by Benishangul–Gumuz (7.8 t ha-1), S.N.N.P.R (7.2 t ha-1) and Oromia (6.6 t ha-1)

(CSA, 2012 / 2013).

6

Cabbage is adapted to a wide range of climatic conditions. However, cabbage grows best

under cool moist conditions with altitude under the range of 500 -3000 m.a.s.l (Copenhagen

market and 500-1700 m.a.s.l (Early drum head) (Molla Tefera, 2009). The optimum

temperature ranges for growth of cabbage is between 15oC and 20oC. The growth of most of

the cabbage verities is arrested when temperature rises above 30oC (Chadha, 2006).

Cabbage can be grown on a variety of soils but it does best on a well - drained, loam soil well

supplied with organic matter. Sandy loams are preferred for early crops, while heavy clay

soils may easily become waterlogged after heavy rain and thus encourage the serious diseases

such as black rot (Xanthomonas campestris) and soft rot (Erwinia carotovora) (Bok et al.,

2006). As cabbage is sensitive to soil acidity, soil pH should be between 6 and 6.5. When pH

falls below 5.5, lime should be applied a month before planting (ARARI, 2005 and

ANRSBoARD, 2013)

Generally cabbage can be either direct seeded or transplanted. However in Ethiopia, it is

mostly transplanted after seedlings are raised in nursery. Depending on the variety about 500-

700 gram of seed is adequate to produce enough seedlings to plant one hectare of land

(Chadha, 2006). Seeds are sown thinly in nursery seedbed at the depth of one centimeter. The

spacing between rows and plants within the rows is 10 cm and 3cm, respectively. Seedlings

are ready to transplanting when they produce two pairs of true leaves or when they attain the

height of 8-13 cm which will take about 4-5 weeks after sowing (ARARI, 2005 and

ANRSBoARD, 2013).

According to Tindall et al. (1987) cabbage is transplanted at the spacing of 60 -75 cm between

rows and 40-60 cm between plants within row depending on the types of cultivar used. The

wider spacing is used later maturing cultivars. Small-sized early maturing variety like

`Copenhagen`, commonly grown variety in Ethiopia, is planted at the spacing of 50cm x

50cm or 60 cm x 40cm (ARARI, 2005).

A continues supply of moisture is essential for proper development of cabbage-heads. It is

recommended to bring the soil to field capacity before transplanting and irrigate again

immediately after transplanting. Water requirement of cabbage depends upon the soil type, the

growth stage of plants and the environmental conditions of the growing area. Young plants

should receive enough water for vegetative growth before head formation. Excess moisture at

late stage of development may cause splitting or cracking of heads. Heavy irrigation at the

time of maturity should be avoided (Rail and Yadav, 2005).The irrigation frequency in

Ethiopia depending on the climatic condition, soil type and the growth stage of the crop it is

7

recommended to irrigate within the range from 3 to 12 days intervals which is mostly supplied

by furrow irrigation system (ARARI, 2005; MANRS, 2011).

Cabbage is a heavy feeder and requires supplemental fertilizer in the form of manure or

compost and inorganic fertilizers. The application rates of fertilizers should be determined

based on the fertility status of the soil (Bok et al., 2006). However such practice is not

common in Ethiopia. Fertilizers are mostly applied based on blanket recommendations which

are implemented for all types of soils. According to ARARI (2005), the rate of nitrogen and

phosphorous required for the production of cabbage in Ethiopia is categorized based on the

fertility of the soils. About 150 kg DAP and 100 kg urea is recommended for fertile while

200kg of DAP and 100 kg of urea ha-1of land is recommended for non-fertile soils. Half of the

urea and the whole DAP is applied at the time of planting and the remaining half of urea will

be applied 30 days after transplanting (ARARI, 2005).

Diseases like Black Rot (Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris) and insect pests including

cabbage aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae) (Tesdeke Abate and Gashawbeza Ayalew, 1994;

ARARI, 2005) and Diamondback Moth are common in Ethiopian cabbage production

(Gashawbeza Ayalew and Ogol, 2006). Although most cabbage producing farmers do not use

chemicals, insects can be easily controlled using recommended insecticides such as

dimethoate, malathion, trichlorophon, Ethiosulfan 35% EC and Diazinon 60% (MANRS,

2011; ANRSBoA, 2014). Weeds are mostly controlled during land preparation and by

cultivating the free space between rows of cabbage.

2.4 Effects of Fertilizers on Growth and Yield Performance of Cabbage

Fertilizer usage plays a major role to increase food production and to meet the demands of the

growing world population. The extent to which fertilizers are used still differs considerably

between various regions of the world (Mengel and Kirkby, 1996). The quantity of fertilizer

nutrients required to optimize crop production depends on the inherent capacity of the soil to

supply adequate levels of nutrients to growing plants (Sanchez 1976; Baligar and Bennett,

1986), the yield potential of the crop variety grown (Amsal Tarekegne et at., 1995, 1997a;

Tilahun et at., 1996), the availability and cost of fertilizers (Gezahegn and Tekalign, 1995),

and climatic conditions prevailing during the crop growing season (Baligar and Bennett,

1986).

Crop species differ in their nutrient requirements depending on their stages of development

and high requirement for nitrogen while large amounts of potassium are a requisite for good

8

growth of marketable part is the underground organs like sweet potato and Irish potato (Preece

and Read, 2005) takes up high amounts of nutrients especially nitrogen and potassium (Hemy,

1984; Salunkhe et al., 1987). Prasad et al. (2009) maximum number of outer leaves, head

length, head width, total and net head weight and total yield were obtained with the

application of 120kg N/ha and 100kg P/ha. Whereas the maximum plant height, plant spread,

leaf area and head diameter were recorded with the application of 140kg N/ha and 120kg P/ha.

Application of 120kg nitrogen and 100kg phosphorous ha-1also gave the best yield of Chinese

cabbage in the Gangetic plains of West Bengal (Prasad et al., 2009). In the research from

Westerveld et al. (2003), cabbages received the highest nitrogen rates were larger and had a

darker green color compared to those received the lowest nitrogen rates

An experiment carried out at Bangladesh Agricultural University farm, the maximum

marketable yield of cabbage was obtained from the application of 336 kg ha-1 nitrogen

(Farooque and Mondal, 1978). They also observed increased plant height, number of loose

leaves, head size, marketable and total yield of cabbage with increased nitrogen level. In the

study conducted by Khokhar et al. (1970) in Taskent Region of Russia, application of 200 kg

ha-1 of nitrogen increased the growth and development of cabbage and thus increased the yield.

White and Forbes (1977) reported that cabbage responded positively to nitrogen application up

to the level of 308 kg ha-1 in Florida, USA. The higher rates reduced generally the proportion

of bigger cabbage heads.

Singh and Naik (1988) conducted an experiment on the nitrogen requirements of cabbage at

Ranchi, India. They observed that the head weight, number of marketable heads and total yield

were maximum at the rate of 180 kg ha-1nitrogen. Similarly, Khadir et al. (1989) studied the

effects of three levels of nitrogen (0, 138, and 376 kg ha-1) and found the highest mean leaf

number, head weight and head yield at the maximum rate of nitrogen.

Not only nitrogen and phosphorous but also other macro and micronutrients affect the growth

and development of crops including cabbage. Din et al. (2007) reported that the maximum

head yield was recorded in treatment receiving NPK level of 120-90-60 kg ha-1 in cabbage.

The minimum values of these parameters were recorded in control plants where no fertilizer

was applied. Rankov and Belichki (1980) also found that the highest yield of cabbage was

obtained when N: P2O5: K 2O was applied at the rate of 450:150:300 kg ha-1.

Similarly Hossain (2011) reported that maximum marketable yield of cabbage (87.09 t ha-1)

was recorded from plants which were received in receiving 240 kg N, 45 kg P, 180 kg K and

45 kg S ha-1. Application of fertilizer above these concentrations reduced the marketable yield

9

of cabbage. The increased marketable yield was expressed in terms of increased diameter and

thickness of heads and less number of loose leaves.

Organic fertilizers such as compost are also important in crop production including cabbage.

They not only add nutrients to the soil, but also improve the structure of the soil and the

availability of nutrients to plants and thus they improve the efficiency of the applied inorganic

fertilizers. In this regard Sarker et al. (2002) reported that highest marketable yield of cabbage

(86.68 t ha-1) was obtained from treatment combination of 60 cm x 45 cm plant spacing with

organic and inorganic fertilizers. In the study of Anonymous (1991), application of 240kg N,

60 kg P and 120 kg K ha-1along with cow dung @ 5 t ha-1 produced the highest cabbage head

yield (75 t ha-1).

Farmyard manure release nutrients slowly and steadily and activates soil microbial biomass

(Ayuso et al., 1996; Belay et al., 2001). Organic manures can sustain cropping systems

through better nutrient recycling and improvement of soil physical attributes (El-Shakweer,

1998). The use of inorganic fertilizer has not been helpful under intensive agriculture because

of its high cost and it is often associated with reduced crop yields, soil degradation, nutrient

imbalance and acidity (Kang and Juo, 1980; Obi and Ebo, 1995).

The effects of fertilizers on growth and development of crops including cabbages are affected

by the stage of development of the crop and the moisture content of the soil. In three years

fertilizer trails conducted on alluvial meadow soils (Radov and Turkmenbaen, 1973) found

that use of 180 kg nitrogen ha-1 applied in three splits of equal doses produced the highest head

yield of cabbage. Similarly, Vleck and Polack (1964) obtained the highest cabbage yields by

application of 75 kg N ha-1 three times during the growing season based on the stages of plant

development. Application of full dose of nitrogen at the time of planting in most cases results

nitrogen deficiency at late stage of crop development including cabbage because of leaching

through irrigation water. Application of nitrogen late in the growing season of cabbage may

solve deficiencies without yield loss.

The pre plant applications may lead to losses or immobilization before plant uptake, thus

greatly affecting N use efficiency (NUE). To avoid nitrogen losses as a result of leaching and

volatilization, split application is needed. Pre-plant applied N is subject to leaching and prone

to denitrification or immobilization before plant uptake, thus affecting N use efficiency

(Subedi et al., 2007).

10

Soil moisture also affects the effects of applied fertilizers on growth and development of crops

including cabbage. In this regard, Sammis et al. (1988) found that head size, yield and quality

of lettuce and cabbage were significantly decreased as soil moisture reduced. In another

experiment, Sammis and Wu (1989) found that marketable yield of cabbage was decreased

linearly with decreasing water application. In an experiment from Dragland (1976) the yield of

cabbage was gradually increased when the nitrogen supply was raised up to 380 kg ha-1.

However application of 470 kg ha-1 didn’t showed any yield advantage if moisture tension was

kept below 0.4 bars.

As indicated above the increase in fertilizer application increased the growth and development

of cabbage. However, excess nitrogen may adversely affects the head quality by producing

coarse and loose head, reduces keeping quality, and enhances the nitrate nitrogen content of

head (Chatterjee, 2009). In various studies similarly, high rates of nitrogen delayed maturity,

decrease storage life, and increase the incidence of disorders (Peck, 1981; Locascio, 1984;

Berard, 1990). In contrast to this, Zebarth et al. (1991) observed no quality deterioration in

cabbage with application of high rates of nitrogen.

Although high nitrogen rates and closer row spacing increased total yield, such condition also

delayed maturity of cabbage as indicated by White and Forbes (1976). In similar experiment

from Csizinszkys and Schuster (1985) high plant density reduced head size and head weight of

individual cabbage, but greater number of heads per unit area obtained from closer row

spacing increased total yield of cabbage. In contrary to this, an increase in spacing results in

increasing in percent marketable cabbage and the average weight of individual heads

(Stepanović et al., 2000).

The complementary use of organic and inorganic fertilizers has been recommended for

sustenance of long term cropping in the tropics (Ipimoroti et al., 2002). Fuchs et al. (1970)

reported that nutrients from mineral fertilizers enhance the establishment of crops while those

from mineralization of organic manures promoted yield when both fertilizers were combined.

It has been observed that addition of manure increases the soil water holding capacity and this

means that nutrients would be made more available to crops where manures have been added

to the soil (Costa et al., 1991). Murwira and Kirchman (1993) observed that nutrient use

efficiency might be increased through the combination of manure and inorganic fertilizer.

11

CHAPTER 3: MATERIAL AND METHODS

3.1 Description of the Study Area

Lay Armachiho is one of the 24 districts of North Gondar Administrative Zone, bordered by

Tach Armachiho and Gondar zuria in north, Gondar town in south, Chilga in west and Wegera

district in east direction. Tekeldengaye is the capital town of the District located 22 km North

West of Gondar town. The total land area of the district is 1,292.72 km2 or 2.3 percent of the

North Gondar. The district has 34 kebeles, of which 33 are rural kebeles and one is urban

kebele with an estimated population 183,920, of which 164,342 are living in rural and 19,578

in urban (CSA, 2013).

Geographically the district lies between 12o 44.734’ N latitude and 37o 25.051’ E longitude

(actual GPS reading) with altitude ranges from 1000 to 3000 m.a.s.l. The annual minimum and

maximum rainfall is 840 and 1200 mm respectively. The mean minimum and maximum

temperature are 17oC and 24oC, respectively (Kahsay Berhe, 2013) (Unpublished). The study

area Chira Ambezo, Kerkir Bale’egziabher and Chachkuna lies between 12o 43.5424’ N

latitude and 37o 31.921’ E longitude with altitude ranges 2458-2800 m.a.s.l. (actual GPS

reading).

Agro-ecologically the district has three climatic zones: lowland 32 % (Kolla), mid-land 61%

(Woina Dega), and highland 7 % (Dega) (ANRSBoFED, 2009). The dominant soil types are

Eutric leptosols and Lithic leptosols (LIVES, 2013). Soils are commonly black, red and brown

in color (Getachew Adugha, 2005). Agriculture is the dominant activity in the rural areas of

the district with typical mixed farming system: crop production and livestock rearing. Major

crops grown in the district are maize (Zea mays L), wheat (Triticum aestivum L), teff

(Eragrostis tef), barley (Hordeum vulgare) and potato (Solanum tuberosum) (CSA,

2013/2014).

12

Figure 3-1. Location of the study Chira Ambezo, Kerkir Bale’egziabher, Chachkuna kebele

and Lay Armachiho district, North Gondar, Amhara Region , Ethiopia

3.2 Assessment of Production Practices of Cabbage

3.2.1 Sampling procedures

The study was conducted in three major cabbage producing kebeles namely Chira Ambezo,

Kerkir Bale’egziabher and Chachkuna which were selected purposively from thirty three

kebeles based on the information of the District Agricultural Office. The sources of the

respondents were all adults who live in the study community. The studies of population were

those who practice irrigation in the previous year in the selected kebele The number of sample

household heads was determined according to Gay (1987). According a sample size of 10-

13

20% household heads of the population should be taken as "rule of thumb" when the

population is between 101–1000. According to the District Agricultural Office (2014) a total

of 247 household heads are engaged in the production of cabbage in the selected kebele (Table

3.1). Therefore, ten household heads from each of the two kebeles, Kerkir Bale’egziabher and

Chachkuna, and twelve household heads from Chira Ambezo were used in the study. The

individual sample household heads were selected by lottery method from the document

obtained from the District Agriculture Office.

Table 3.1.Total Household heads, head cabbage producers and interviews households

Kebele Kerkir

Bale’egziabher

Chachkuna Chira Ambezo Total

Total Household heads 716 1052 1589 3357

Head cabbage growers 76 89 73 238

Interviews Households 10 12 10 32

3.2.2 Irrigation water measurement procedure

The amount of irrigation water in canal used by the farmers was estimated by float method.

This method is a quick and cheap way to estimate discharge in a canal (FAO, 1992). The

amount of water used in all selected farmers in the three Kebele was measured and the mean

value was taken for analysis. The discharge in a canal was carried out on 20 meter straight

canal where irrigation water flows. To estimate the average flow velocity, tennis ball was

released on water which flows in the canal and the time required to travel the 20 meter canal

was measured. The measurement was carried out three times and the mean flow velocity was

then multiplied with 0.85 (correction factor) to estimate the average water velocity in the

stream (FA0, 1992)

To measure the quantity of water flow (m3/s), depth of the canal at the center, left and right

edges was measured five times and the width was measured at ten points of the canal within

the 20 meter canal distance. Lastly the mean width and depth of the wetted canal were taken to

calculate the amount of water flowed.

This was combined with the number of application and duration for each irrigation event to

estimate the total applied water. Finally the water flow (m3), total irrigation water used and its

productivity were calculated using the formulas below (Bessembinder et al., 2005).

Water flow (m3/s) = water velocity (m/s) x width (m) x depth (m)….…………..... (1)

The total irrigation water used by the farmers then calculated by using the formula:

14

Total irrigation water used (m3) = time required to irrigate the land (s) x water flow (m3/s) x

number of irrigation multiplied………………………………….……………..... (2)

Crop Water Productivity (kg/m3) = yield (kg)/total water used (m3)……………… (3)

3.2.3 Data collection and analysis

Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, key informant interview and having

two parts. The first part deals with the socio - demographic structure of the participants. The

second part covered the whole value chain of cabbage production system such as cropping

system, cultivar used, time of planting, land preparation, planting method, fertilizer used,

disease control methods employed, harvesting methods, postharvest handling and marketing.

Interviewers were proceeding from house to house. They introduced them self and explained

the purpose of the interview and asked the questions using specific statements in a standard

procedure. Consent to participate were obtained from each interviewee. Before launching, the

actual survey questionnaires were pre tested and was improved accordingly.

Furthermore, secondary data was also collected from District Agriculture Office reports,

journals, publications of governmental and non-governmental organizations, statistical and

census reports.

At the end of each day, all questionnaires were checked for completeness, clarity and

consistency and recorded. The data were then coded and subjected to SPSS computer

software and descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, frequency, etc. were used

to analyze the collected data.

3.3 Response of Yield and Yield Components of Head Cabbage under NPS Fertilizer

Rates

3.3.1 Treatments and experimental design

The field experiment was conducted at Chira Ambezo Kebele on the farmer`s field in 2015

during off season with irrigation. The experiment was consisted of ten NPS fertilizer rates and

one without fertilizer as control, a total of eleven fertilizer rates (Table 3.1). The NPS fertilizer

rates were determined by adding and subtracting 25% from the blanket recommendations of

cabbage (ARARI, 2005; ANRSBoARD, 2013). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized

Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Eleven treatments including a control

were assigned randomly to the unit plot of 2.5 m × 2.5 m = 6.25 m2 in size. The experimental

area was divided into three blocks. The total area of the experimental plot was 282.625 m2

with 74.25 m2 net plot area. The net size of the main plot was 206.25 m2. The blocks and plots

15

were spaced at 1m and 0.5m respectively. The seedlings were planted at 50 cm between plants

and 50 cm between rows. There were five rows per plot and five plants per row with a total of

25 plants per plot.

Table 3.2 Treatment levels used in the study area

*Blanket Recommendation (ARARI, 2005)

Table 3.3 Field layout of the Experiment

Plot Block 1 Block 2 Block 3

1 T5 T11 T6

2 T2 T6 T7

3 T6 T7 T4

4 T1 T2 T11

5 T3 T5 T1

6 T10 T1 T9

7 T7 T3 T2

8 T8 T9 T5

9 T4 T10 T3

10 T9 T4 T8

11 T11 T8 T10

Treatments N: P2O5 : S

1 0: 0: 0

2* 82: 92: 0

3 61.5: 92: 16.95

4 61.5: 69: 12.71

5 61.5: 115: 21.18

6 82: 69: 12.71

7 82: 92:16.95

8 82: 115: 21.18

9 102.5: 69: 12.71

10 102.5: 92: 16.95

11 102.5: 115: 21.18

16

3.3.2 Management of the experimental plots

The variety, `Copenhagen market` was used in this study. It is an early head forming type with

compact, round and large head (Rail and Yadav, 2005). Land preparation was ploughed three

times. Soil sample was taken randomly from 9 spots diagonally from the experimental area at

the depth of 15 - 20 cm before planting and mixed to make as a composite. Some physical and

chemical properties of the composite soil; namely pH, organic matter content, Nitrogen,

Phosphorus and Potassium contents were determined in North Gondar Zone soil laboratory.

Soil of the experimental site was clay loam and PH (6.7) neutral based on the laboratory test.

The organic matter (2.185 %) and total nitrogen (0.15%) contents of the experimental field

was very low while others were above critical level (Available P / PPM (23.669418), CEC

Cmol (+) kg-1 (51.5526) and K (Cmol (+) kg-1 (0.575232) according to Tekalign Mamo et al.

(1991) and Hazelton and Murphy (2007).

The required quantity of phosphorous in the form of DAP, NPS and half of the quantity of

urea as a main source of nitrogen were applied at the time of planting and the remaining half

of urea was side dressed 30 days after planting (ARARI, 2005; MANRS, 2011). Other

management activities like weeding, irrigation, cultivation and plant protection measures were

done uniformly for all plots as recommended for head cabbage.

Healthy and uniform sized seedlings (10-12cm) with two paired of leaves were transplanted

in to the experimental plots with the spacing of 50 cm between plants and 50 cm between rows

as recommended by ARARI (2005). Watering was done uniformly based on climatic

condition using furrow irrigation once within four days interval. Hand weeding was done

frequently as per the emergence of the weeds. To control aphids, flea beetles and termites

Ethiosulfan 35% EC @ 2.5 liter ha-1 and Diazinon 60% EC 20 ml per mound were applied

uniformly for the experimental plots as recommended by Tadesse Amera and Asferachew

Abate (2008).

The crop was harvested at maturity when the head become compact. Therefore, before

harvesting, head compactness of the cabbage was tested by pressing with the thumb where

compact or mature heads feel comparatively hard. After uprooting, the heads were cutoff at

their base and weighed for gross yield. For marketable yield, the loose leaves, open leaves and

whitish colored leaves were removed and the heads were weighed as recommended by Rail

and Yadav (2005).

17

3.3.3 Methods of data collection and analysis

Both vegetative and yield parameters of cabbages were collected in the study. Data on plant

height, plant spread, and number of leaves per plant, volume and diameters of cabbage heads

were collected from randomly selected five plants from net plot area.

Plant height (cm):

Plant height was recorded from five randomly selected plants from net plot area by measuring

the height of the largest leaf from ground level to the tip using ruler at 40 days after

transplanting (DAT) and the mean values were computed and used for further analysis.

Plant spread (cm):

Plant spread is the diameter of the space covered by the leaves of cabbage and it is measured

in north-south direction. The data were recorded from five randomly selected plants from net

plot area at 40 DAT and mean values were counted and used for analysis.

Number of leaves per plant:

The numbers of leaves of five randomly selected plants were counted from net plot area at 40

DAT and the average number of leaves per plant was calculated.

Days to 50 % head initiation:

The plants were observed daily to evaluate the initiation of heads. The number of days elapsed

from the DAT up to 50% of the plants in the net plot area initiated heads was counted and the

average number of days was used for analysis.

Days to 75% maturity:

Cabbage heads are said to be matured when the heads are compact or firm when pressed with

fingers. Matured heads feel comparatively hard. Days to 75% maturity was assessed by

counting the number of days elapsed from DAT up to 75% of the heads in the net plot matured

and the number of days were used for analysis.

Volume per head (cc):

The volume of cabbage heads was recorded by measuring the displaced water which was

obtained by dipping cabbage heads in known volume of water. The mean volume of cabbage

18

heads was calculated from five randomly selected heads from net plot area using the above

mentioned method and used for further analysis.

Head diameter (cm):

To measure head diameter five randomly selected heads in each plot were cut vertically at

their middle position with a sharp knife. The diameters of the heads were then measured with

a meter scale horizontally from one side to another side of the selected heads and mean values

were recorded.

Head weight (kg):

The heads of five randomly selected plants from net plot area were harvested and weighed

using weighing scale and the mean values were calculated and used for further analysis.

Marketable and unmarketable yield (t ha-1):

Heads which were free from any damages and decay as well as those which haven’t loose and

open heads were considered as marketable. Heads which fulfilled these characteristics were

harvested from net plot area and expressed as tone per hectare and used for further analysis.

Those head which did not fulfill the above criterion including the wrapper leaves were

considered as unmarketable and expressed as tone per hectare. The total yield was then

obtained by adding the marketable and unmarketable yields.

The data collected from the experimental plots were subjected to analysis of variance

(ANOVA) using the procedures as described by Gomez and Gomez (1984) with the help of

Statistical Analysis Software (SAS) version 9.2. Least significant difference (LSD) test at 5%

or 1% probability was used for mean separation when the analysis of variance indicated the

presence of significant differences

Economic analysis was made following CIMMYT methodology (CIMMYT, 1988). The costs

of fertilizers and labor were considered as variable cost. Marginal rate of return was calculated

as change of net benefit divided by change of cost in the treatments.

19

CHAPTER 4: RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1 Assessment of Head Cabbage production practices

4.1.1 Demographic information

Majority of the respondents involved in head cabbage production fall with the age range of

greater than 48 (53.1 %) followed by the age range of 33 – 48 (28.1%). The least age range

among the respondents involved in cabbage production was 19-33 years which accounted

about 18.8% (Table 4.1).

The results of this study showed that aged farmers are involved in the production of cabbage

production. The reason for that is probably aged household heads mostly has big family size

that can be used as labor force for the production of cabbages. On the other hand young

household heads may not have enough land which may restrict their involvement in cabbage

production.

There was gender disparity in the involvement of households headed. Overwhelming

percentages (93.8%) of the respondents were male headed while the remaining percentages

about 6.2 % were female headed. Majority of the household heads 93.8% had more than 4

family members while the remaining had less than four family members (Table 4.1).

The results of this study showed that household heads having more family members are

involved in the production of cabbage. This is probably due to the fact that cabbage production

is a labor intensive farming system that required more family members to be successful in the

sector. This shows that most of the households in the study area are male headed.

Table 4.1 Sex, age, and family size of the respondent household heads

Description

Kerkir

Bale'egziabher

(N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira

Ambezo

(N=10)

Total

(N=32)

Sex of household heads Percentage Percentage Percentage Percentage

Female 20 0 0 6.250

Male 80 100 100 93.750

Age of household head

19 -33 40 8.333 10 18.750

33-48 10 33.333 40 28.125

> 48 50 58.333 50 53.125

Family size

> 4 family member 90 100 90 93.750

< 4 family member 10 0 10 6.250

20

The educational status of the respondent household heads is presented in Table 4.2. The results

of this study indicated that about 50 % of the interviewed household heads have no formal

education. The remaining 40.6 and 9.4% of the respondents visited the formal education with

1-6 and 7–8 grades, respectively. The level of education may influence the adoption of new

crop production technology including cabbage. This can be expressed in low level of

production and productivity of vegetables including cabbage which was observed in this

study. In line to this, Oyekale and Idjesa, (2009) reported that extremely low level of

education affects the level of technology adoption and skills amongst farmers.

Table 4.2 Educational status of the household head in the study kebele

Description

Kerkir

Bale’egziabher

(N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira Ambezo

(N=10)

Total

(N = 32)

Educational status of

Household head Percentage Percentage Percentage Percentage

Illiterate 50 25 30 34.375

Literate 0 25 20 15.625

1-6 grade 30 50 40 40.625

7-8 grade 20 0 10 9.375

4.1.2 Farming practices

Total Landholding and land allocated for head cabbage production

The average landholdings of the sample respondents in selected kebeles varied from 1.3 -1.5

hectares with an average holding of 1.409 hectare (Table 4.3). The average size of land used

for cabbage production by household heads of the sample kebeles was about 0.036 hectares

which was on average about 2.56% of the total landholdings used for cabbage production in

sample kebeles. The results show that farmers in selected kebeles use relatively high

proportion of their landholding per holder compared to the national average which is about

1.10 ha as indicated by CSA (2014/2015). Especially, household heads in Chachkuna kebele

used much higher proportion (4.53%) of their crop land for cabbage production. That intern

indicates that the study area is obviously the major cabbage production area in the country

because they grow cabbage (0.036) more than the national average area which is about 0.012

ha as indicated by CSA (2014/2015).

21

Table 4.3 Total landholding and land allocated for cabbage production by household heads in

the study kebeles

Descriptions

Kerkir

Bale'egziabher

(N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira

Ambezo

(N=10)

Total

(N=32)

Mean Mean Mean Mean

Total land holding (ha) 1.5125 1.302 1.4125 1.409

Cabbage production area (ha) 0.03 0.059 0.02 0.036

% age of area allocated for cabbage 1.98 4.53 1.42 2.56

Cabbage production system in the study area

The interviewed household heads in the sample kebeles of the study area have different

experiences in cabbage growth (Table 4.4). Generally, more than 65% of the respondents in

the study area have a cabbage farming experience of greater than three years, while about 35%

of them have less than three years of experiences. Especially farmers in Chachkuna kebele are

more experienced in the production of cabbage. More than 83% of the respondents in this

kebele had more than six years of experience in the sector. The availability of such a long year

experiences can be considered as great potential for the development of vegetable production

including cabbage in the study area which eases the extension work in the sector.

The majority of respondents of the sample kebeles, about 65.6%, produced cabbage twice in a

year while about 31.2 % produced once a year and about 3.1% cultivated cabbage trice in a

year (Table 4.4). Due to the fact that, about 68.9% of the respondents cultivated cabbage more

than once in a year, the crop is available in most seasons of the year in the study area. 70 %,

83.33 % and 40 % of the respondents produced cabbage twice a year in Kerkir Bale’egziabher,

Chachkuna and Chira Ambezo, respectively, using irrigation. However, 30, 16.67 and 50 % of

the respondents in the same order produced cabbage one times in the year during rainy season

or using irrigation. The results of the study generally showed that cabbage production in the

study area is well established as the farmers are well experienced in the sector as indicated

above in this study.

22

Table 4.4 Experiences of household heads in the production of cabbage and frequency of

productionin the study kebeles

Description

Kerkir

Bale’egziabher

(N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira

Ambezo

(N=10)

Total (%)

(N=32)

Experience of household

heads Percentage Percentage Percentage Percentage

1-3 years 50 8.333 50 34.375

3-5 years 40 8.333 30 25

6 -10 years 10 41.667 20 25

Over 10 years 0 41.667 0 15.625

Frequency of production

Once in a year 30 16.667 50 31.25

Twice in a year 70 83.333 40 65.625

Trice in a year 0 0.000 10 3.125

According to the assessment results, cabbage is produced in main cropping season and during

off season using irrigation water. Although irrigated farming requires high investment

expense, farmers in the study area produced cabbage using irrigation water which improves

the sustainable supply of cabbage to consumers. Production of cabbage using irrigation lacks

mostly enough moisture which probably intensifies the occurrence of the most common insect

pest of cabbage namely aphids (Fereres et al., 1988). On the other hand however ARARI,

(2005) recommended that vegetables like cabbage are preferably produced during off season

using irrigation water than during main rainy season in the tropical areas because of the high

incidence of destructive diseases.

Varieties used and source of seeds

The use of improved varieties and other production inputs based on the recommendations is

crucial to increase production and productivity of any crops including cabbage. Farmers in the

study area used two improved cabbage varieties namely `Copenhagen Market` and

`Drumhead` (Table 4.5). According to the survey results the variety `Copenhagen Market` was

the most preferred variety in the study area. While 84.4 % of the respondents used the variety

`Copenhagen Market` about 15.6 % of them cultivated `Drumhead`. Especially in Chachkuna

kebele, all the respondents (100%) cultivated the former one. The preference of `Copenhagen

Market` variety by growers over `Drumhead`, can be probably due to its earliness. The variety

23

is ready for harvesting in 63-70 days after transplanting compared to Drumhead variety which

require about 105-115 days (ANRSBoA, 2014).

Availability of quality seed is an important prerequisite for vegetable enterprise including

cabbage. Different vegetable seed suppliers are present in the study area. According to the

assessment results, about 50% of the interviewed respondents obtained their cabbage seeds

from private vegetable seed suppliers (PVSS) while about 15.6% obtained the seeds from

Office of Agriculture in the kebeles. The remaining 34.4% of the respondents obtained their

seeds from both of them (Table 4.5).

Table 4.5. Varieties used and source of seeds of head cabbage in the study area

Description

Kerkir

Bale’egziabh

er (N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira

Ambezo

(N=10)

Total

(N = 32)

Seed Source Percentage Percentage Percentage Percentage

Private Vegetable Seed Suppliers 50 41.667 60 50

Office of Agriculture 40 0.000 10 15.625

PVSS and OoA 10 58.333 30 34.375

Variety Grown

Copenhagen market 60 100.000 90 84.375

Drumhead 40 0.000 10 15.625

Seedling production, spacing and transplanting

Cabbage is mostly transplanted. Cabbage seedlings are raised for about 30-45 days in nursery

until they achieved the desired stage. According to Bok et al. ( 2006), MANRS (2011) and

ANRSBoA (2014) cabbage seedlings are ready for transplanting when they attain two pairs of

true leaves or when they attain a height of 10-15cm which is commonly in 4-6 weeks after

sowing (Chadha, 2006; Singh, 2006).

Although all the respondents produced seedlings in nursery, most of them (87.5%)

transplanted seedlings at older stages (Table 4.6) which reduces the establishment of the

seedlings in the production field, that intern reduces the population and thus the yield of

cabbage. About 43.8 % of the respondents planted their cabbage seedlings late in the afternoon

when the sun losses its strong heat which is a suitable time for transplanting of most of the

vegetable crops including cabbage which in line with the report of Bok et al. (2006). However

24

about 50% of the respondents choose to transplant cabbage early in the morning that may

exposes the newly transplanted seedlings to the coming strong sunlight during the day time

while the rest transplant any time of the day.

Generally seedling production and transplanting practices employed by the respondents is not

in agreement with the recommendation for cabbage (ARARI, 2005; ANRSBoA, 2014).

Farmers lack proper seedling production and transplanting procedures required for cabbage

production.

Table 4.6. Practices of transplanting seedlings and production system

Description

Kerkir

Bale’egziabher

(N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira

Ambezo

(N=10)

Total

(N = 32)

Transplanting Stage Percentage Percentage Percentage Percentage

Two pair of leaves 30 0.000 10 12.5

Three pair of leaves 30 16.667 10 18.75

Four pair of leaves 20 75.000 70 56.25

Six pair of leaves 20 8.333 10 12.5

Total 100 100.000 100 100

Transplanting weeks

Four weeks 90 58.333 30 59.375

Five weeks 0 8.333 30 12.5

Six weeks 10 33.333 40 28.125

Total 100 100.000 100 100

Appropriate spacing between rows and within rows is crucial in vegetable production

including cabbage to avoid competition for nutrients, space and moisture among plants.

Moreover, using appropriate spacing enables to have the recommend population, thus

maximum possible yield of the crop in a given plot of land (Baloch at el., 2002). The

recommended spacing for cabbage in Ethiopian condition is 50 X 50cm between rows and

between plants within rows, respectively, as indicated by ARARI (2005). Accordingly, only

3.1% of the interviewed respondents in sample kebeles used the recommended spacing 50 x

50 cm (40,000 plants/ha) for the production of cabbage. The remaining 96.9% of the

respondents used either less or large spacing in producing cabbage (Figure 4.1). Among the

cultural practices, direct effect can be observed with increase or decrease in plant population

because cabbage plant bears a single head (Purushottam and Khatiwada, 2001; Panda, 2008).

25

Hence with altered plant spacing will be able to produce marketable size heads. Prabagar and

Srinivas (1990) recorded higher cabbage head yield with closer spacing (50x 30 cm

66,667plants/ha) than wider spacing 50 x 40 cm (50,000 plants/ha) and 50 x 50 cm (40,000

plants/ha).

Figure 4-1. Planting space for head cabbage in the study area

Cultural practices employed for the production of cabbage in the study area

Irrigation

Cabbage is shallow rooted crop and very sensitive to soil moisture, hence frequent light

watering is important especially in light soils than the clay or clay loam soils (Singh et al.,

2015). Moreover the soil moisture requirements of cabbage depend on its developmental

stages. Generally at early stages of development, it requires a frequent and light irrigation

particularly in dry season (Morrison et al., 2007). At late stages of development, excess

moisture cause cracking of cabbage heads especially at maturity stage (Rail and Yadav, 2005;

ARCoSA, 2013).

According to the assessment results of the study however, farmers irrigated their cabbage

farms based on the availability of water without considering the soil types and the

developmental stages of cabbages. Accordingly, 84.5% of the sample households applied

water once in less than seven days interval whereas about 15.5% of them irrigated the

cabbages once in greater than seven days (Table 4.7). Such irrigation schedule may result less

or over irrigation which is not suitable for cabbage production. Both of them may result

reduction of cabbage yield and thus reduction of water productivity. Most of the sample

26

farmers (87.5%) used furrow irrigation as water application method which is generally a

suitable method other than drip irrigation for leafy vegetables including cabbage.

These results are in agreement with (IWMI, 2006; Mloza-Banda, 2006; MANRS, 20011) who

indicated furrow irrigation as suitable method of irrigation water application for a wide range

of crops.

Table 4.7. Frequency and methods of irrigation water application for cabbage production in

the study area

Description

Kerkir

Bale’egziabher

(N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira Ambezo

(N=10)

Total

(N=32)

Method of Irrigation Percentage Percentage percentage Percentage

Watering can 10 0 0 3.125

Furrow irrigation 70 100 90 87.5

Watering can and Furrow

irrigation 20 0 10 9.375

Frequency of irrigation

Within 3 - 4 days 100 33.33 90 71.875

Within 5 - 6 days 0 33.33 0 12.5

Every week 0 33.33 10 15.625

Boreholes, rivers or springs water and rain feed are the main sources of irrigation water for

cabbage production in the study area (Table 4.8) which is also in agreement with the findings

of Osei et al. (2013) and Edossa Etissa et al. (2014) who observed that river diversion, springs

and boreholes as major sources of irrigation water for the production of vegetables.

27

Table 4.8. Source of irrigation water for the production of cabbage in the study area

Source of Water

Kerkir

Bale’egziabher

(N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira Ambezo

(N=10) Total (N=32)

Percentage Percentage Percentage Percentage

Rain 0 8.33 0 3.125

River/ Spring 50 16.67 50 37.5

Borehole 10 0 20 9.375

Rain And River 40 75 30 50

100 100 100 100

Cabbage and crop water productivity in the study area

The average cabbage production of the sample households was 9.52, 11.33 and 12.33 tons in

Kerkir Bale’egziabher, Chachkuna and Chira Ambezo, respectively. The average cabbage

productivity of the sample households in the study kebeles was about 11.1 t/ha (Table 4.9).

Generally cabbage productivity in the study kebeles was relatively high compared to the

national average in Ethiopia which is about 10.4 t ha-1 (CSA, 2014). However, compared to

the world average (29.23 t ha-1) (FAOSTAT, 2014), the productivity of cabbage in the study

area is low. This low productivity of cabbage is may be attributed by various reasons including

inappropriate agronomy practices and absence of proper disease and insect pest management

practices, and other which is in conformity with results of Tesdeke Abate and Gashawbeza

Ayalew (1994) and Melkamu Alemayehu et al.( 2015).

The average crop water productivity in the study kebeles was about 8.81 kg/m3 which is high

compared to the finding of Al-Said et al. (2012). They found that crop water productivity of

cabbage was about 7.8 kg / m3. The high crop water productivity of cabbage in the study area

may be partly attributed due to average high crop productivity (11.1 t/ha). According to

Seleshi Bekele et al. (2009) the recommended irrigation water for one session of cabbage

production is estimated between 3500 - 5000 m3ha-1. Generally this shows that respondents’

water application was below the recommendation or crop needs (1347.05m3 ha-1) (Table 4.9).

Use of the recommended quantity of water may further increase the productivity of cabbage in

the study area.

28

Table 4.9. Crop water productivity cabbage in the study area

Description

Kerkir

Bale’egziabher

(N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira

Ambezo(

N=10)

Total

(N=32)

Mean Mean Mean Mean

Area of head cabbage (hectare) 0.0344 0.0569 0.0177 0.036

Head cabbage yield (tones) 0.328 0.645 0.219 0.397

Head cabbage production (ton ha-1) 9.518 11.33 12.433 11.094

Total water used (m3) 54.91 52.51 26.89 44.77

Total water used (m3/ha) 1,595.4 922.29 1,523.45 1347.05

Crop water productivity (kg/m3) 5.97 12.29 8.16 8.807

Types, rates, times, and methods of fertilizers application in the study kebeles

The application of fertilizers is an important agronomic practice in vegetable production

including cabbage which helps to satisfy the nutrient needs of the crop required for the

production of high yield. About 93.7 percent of the interviewed sample farmers used DAPs as

well as urea (Appendix Table 1) for the production of cabbage whereas the rest not used.

However, only 43.75 % of them used inorganic fertilizers and compost whereas 56.25 % of

the interviewed sample farmers used inorganic fertilizers (DAPs and Urea) (Table 4.10).

Table 4.10. Fertilizer used for head cabbage

Description

Kerkir

Bale’egziabher

(N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira Ambezo

(N=10)

Total (N=32)

Percentage Percentage Percentage Percentage

Inorganic fertilizer 20 91.7 50 56.25 Compost 0 0.00 0 0 Both 80 8.3 5 43.75

The average rates of DAP and urea fertilizers applied by the sample farmers were 176 and 158

kg ha-1, respectively (Appendix Table 1). Accordingly, 26.7% of the sample farmers over

fertilized their cabbage while 56.7% of them used low rates of DAP compared to the

recommendation. Only 16.6% of the respondents used the recommended amount of DAP for

cabbage production (ARARI, 2005). On the other hand, about 73.3% of the sample farmers

over fertilized their cabbage farms with urea while 10% of them used low rates. Only 16.7%

the respondents used the recommended amount of urea for cabbage production. According to

29

ANRSBoA (2014) and ARARI (2005), the recommended rates of DAP and urea for cabbage

production are 200 and 100 kg ha-1, respectively. According to the results of this study, the use

of fertilizers especially that of DAP was not economical which could lead to pollution of the

environment such as runoff in to the water bodies and leaching in to the ground water.

Fertilizer application time should coincide with the developmental stages and thus the need of

the crop plants including cabbage. The survey results revealed that DAP and urea were applied

at different time (Table 4.11). About 21.8% of the respondents applied DAP one time within

10-45 days after transplanting while 53.1% of them applied DAP two times where the first

application was done at date of transplanting and the second application was 15-60 days after

transplanting. About 18.8% of the respondents split the quantity of DAP in to three and

applied three times in the growing season at different time.

Similarly, urea was also applied at different time. About 21.8 % of the respondents applied the

whole quantity of urea at one time within 7-45 days after transplanting while 59.3 % of them

applied two times where the first application was done at date of transplanting and the second

application was 15-60 days after transplanting. 12.5% of the respondents split the quantity of

urea in to three and applied three times in the growing season at different time (Table 4.11).

Farmers applied both DAP and urea as side-dressing whereas organic fertilizer (compost) was

broadcasted about 45 days before planting to give time for decomposition process before

planting of cabbage seedlings which is in agreement with Bok et al.(2006) who reported

composts should be applied in advance before planting to protect seedlings from heat

produced during decomposition process. However, only 43.8% of them used organic fertilizers

such as compost which unknown in quantity and quality (Table 4.11).

The time of fertilizer application practiced by respondents was generally not in agreement

with the recommendations as indicated by ARARI (2005). According to the recommendation,

DAP is generally applied at the time of planting whereas urea is applied with spilt application

method. One half of the quantity of urea is applied at the time of planting while the remaining

one half is applied 30 days after transplanting.

30

Table 4.11.Frequency of fertilizer application for head cabbage

Descriptions

Kerkir

Bale’egziabher

(N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira

Ambezo

(N=10)

Total

(N = 32)

Frequency and time of

application fertilizers Percentage

Percentage Percentage Percentage

Urea

Not used 10 0.00 10 6.25

One Times 7- 45 DAT 20 41.67 0 21.875

Two times DAT-60 DAT 30 58.33 90 59.375

Three times 7 -10 DAT, 25-

30 DAT and 45 -60 DAT 40 0.00 0

12.5

DAP

Not used 10 0.00 10 6.25

One times 10 - 45 DAT 20 33.33 10 21.875

Two times DAT- 60 DAT 30 50.00 80 53.125

Three times 7- 10 DAT, 25-

30 DAT and 45 - 60 DAT 40 16.67 0

18.75

Compost

Not used 20 91.67 50 56.25

One times 1DBT- 45 DBT 80 8.33 50 43.75

Pests and their control methods

Diseases and insect pests are serious concern in the production of cabbage in Ethiopia

including the study area. Failure in the management of pests could result in total crop failure.

Among others Downy Mildew, Cabbage Yellows (Fusarium oxysporium) and Black Rot of

Crucifers (Xanthomonas campestris) were the serious diseases observed in the study area.

Downy Mildew was observed in 90%, 100% and 100% of the sample households in Kerkir

Bale’egziabher, Chachkuna and Chira Ambezo, respectively. Cabbage Yellows (Fusarium

oxysporium) was also found in 60% (Kerkir Bale’egziabher), 83.3% (Chachkuna) and 50 %

(Chira Ambezo) of the sample households. Black Rot of Crucifers (Xanthomonas campestris)

was also found in 30 % (Kerkir Bale’egziabher), 50 % (Chachkuna) and 50 % (Chira Ambezo)

of the sample households. Generally 96.9%, 65.6% and 37.5% of the farms of the sample

households were infested by Downy Mildew, Cabbage Yellows (Fusarium oxysporium) and

Black Rot of Crucifers (Xanthomonas campestris), respectively. Water spraying on the plants,

31

rouging of affected plants and application of fungicides were the major methods employed by

sample households to manage cabbage diseases (Figures 4.2).

Figure 4-2. Disease occurrence and their measurements

Insect pests were also serious treat for cabbage production both in nursery and production field

in the study area. Aphids, cut worms and flea beetles were among the major insect pests

observed in the study area. Aphids were observed in all farms (100%) of the sample

households while cut worms were observed on average on 63.3% of the farms. The incidence

of flea beetle was relatively low (20%) in sample farms of the study area. Water and urea

spraying on plants, application of insecticides and hand picking and destruction were the

major methods employed by farmers in the management of cabbage insects in the study area

(Table 4.12).

32

Table 4.12. Insect occurrence and their measurement

Major insects

observed

Measurement of

insects control

Kerkir

Bale’egziabher

(N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira

Ambezo

(N=10)

Total

(N = 32)

Percentage Percentage Percentage Percentage

Cut worm

Hand picking

and destruction 40 100 50 65.625

Not observed 60 0 50 34.375

Aphids

Water spraying 80 58.33 80 71.875

Chemical 10 41.67 10 21.875

Urea spraying 10 0 10 6.25

Flea beetle

Not observed 60 100 80 84.375

Water spraying 40 0 0 12.5

Chemicals 0 0 20 6.25

Total 100 100 100 100

4.1.3 Harvesting and postharvest operations of cabbage in the study area

According to the assessment results cabbage was harvested 3-5 months after transplanting

(Table 4.13). Most of the interviewed farmers (65.6%) harvested cabbage 3- 4 months after

planting which is in line with the information of ARARI (2005). However, about 34.4% of the

respondents harvested cabbage after five months of transplanting which is not in line with the

recommendation. The maturity indices of cabbage were well known by farmers in the study

area. About 81.2% of the households said that cabbage is ready for harvest when the heads are

compact. The results are in agreement with Egyir et al. (2008) who indicated that the cabbage

plants are ready for harvest when the heads are compact.

33

Table 4.13. Length of time to harvest and harvesting stage

Description

Kerkir

Bale’egziabher

(N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira

Ambezo

(N=10)

Total

(N = 32)

Length of time to harvest

3 months 30 25.00 0 18.75

3 1/2 months 20 25.00 10 18.75

4 months 0 33.33 50 28.125

> 5 months 50 16.67 40 34.375

Maturity indices

Compactness of head 60 100 80 81.25

Compactness and color of the head 10 0 0 3.125

Compactness and size of head 30 0 20 15.625

Cabbage is normally harvested manually like any other vegetables in Ethiopia. Farmers

harvested cabbage either by cutting the stem below head using sickles or by pulling the whole

plants and cutting the stems below the heads. Harvesting methods and postharvest handling

practices employed by vegetable growers have a serious impact on the postharvest life and the

quality of the crops since it affects the degree of damages incurred during the processes as

indicated by Acedo (2010).

Not only the method but also the time of harvesting affects the quality and shelf life of

vegetables including cabbages. In this regard, about 87.5% of the respondents (Figure 4.3)

harvested their cabbages late in the evening or early in the morning when the cabbages are

cool which is in agreement with Thompson (1996) who reported that cabbages should be

harvested during the coolest time of the day.

34

Figure 4-3. Harvesting time of head cabbage

Harvested cabbages should be stored in clean and well ventilated storage either in container or

spread in floor or any other structure. Farmers in the study area store their cabbages in plastic

bags or spread loose on the ground floor. They store cabbages generally for short period of

time ranging from 2-36 hours. This is probably because of lack of storage infrastructures

which are suitable for long term storage of cabbage (cold storage).

Farmers transported their cabbages to nearby markets using pack animals, vehicles and on

foot, where pack animals were the dominant ways of transporting cabbage to the market

(62.5%) (Figure 4.4). This way of transporting cabbages increases the incidence of damages

that may enhance postharvest diseases and physiological damages which intern decrease the

quality and increase postharvest losses.

35

Figure 4-4. Transportation system

4.1.4 Major constraints and opportunities of cabbage production in the study area

Major constraints of cabbage production

According to the respondents the major constraints of cabbage production in the study kebeles

were lack of lack of training in the production of cabbage, occurrence of diseases and insect

pests, quality of cabbage seeds and shortage of short maturing varieties and market problems.

All of the respondents (100 %) replied that lack of lack of training was the first and the most

constraints by the respondents of head Cabbage growers. The next, in Kerkir Bale’egziabher

(100 %), Chira Ambezo (90%) and Chachkuna (91.7 %) of the interviewed was disease and

insect pest highly faced whereas the rest 10% of Chira Ambezo and 8.3 % of Chachkuna no

problem. On the other hand, in Chachkuna (33.3 %) and Chira Ambezo (10%) of the

interviewed were shortage of irrigation water whereas the rest 66.7 % and 90% no problem

respectively. Finally, only in Kerkir Bale’egziabher (20%), of the interviewed was market

problem faced whereas the rest 80% no market problem (Table 4.14).

36

Table 4.14. Major problems of head cabbage in the study area

Major problems Kerkir

Bale’egziabher

(N=10)

Chachkuna

(N=12)

Chira

Ambezo

(N=10)

Total

(N = 32)

Disease and insect pests Percentage Percentage Percentage Percentage

Yes 100 91.7 90 93.8

No 0 8.3 10 6.2

Shortage of irrigation water

Yes 0 33.3 10 15.6

No 100 66.7 90 84.4

Quality of seeds and shortage

of short maturing varieties

Yes 80 100 90 90.62

No 20 0 10 9.375

Market problem

Yes 20 0 0 6.25

No 80 100 100 93.75

lack of training

Yes 100 100 100 100

No 0 0 0 0

Cabbage production opportunities

There are a number of opportunities to develop the production of cabbage in the study area.

Among others the following are the major once according to the assessment results. The

governments of Ethiopia as well as Amhara Region give high emphasis for the production of

cash crops like cabbage by developing various irrigation schemes in various regions including

the study area. The farmers in the study area have some experience in the production of

vegetables including cabbage. It creates diversification in eating habit of the society

(nutrition), local market, income and an employment opportunity is a paramount importance.

Consequently, it offers not only opportunities for greater income to small-scale farmers and

low-income laborers but it is beneficial for providing employment opportunities for women

and the poor.

4.2 Effects of NPS fertilizer rates on growth and yield components of cabbage

The effects different rates of NPS fertilizer on vegetative growth and yield of cabbage are

presented and discussed in this chapter. The effects of NPS fertilizer on vegetative growth of

cabbage are presented under subtitle 4.2.1 while their effect on yield and yield components

cabbage is presented under subtitle 4.2.1. The cost-benefit analysis of the different rates of

NPS fertilizer is presented under subtitle 4.3 below.

37

4.2.1 Growth parameters of head cabbage

Plant height

Plant height is one of important growth parameters of cabbage. It depends on several factors

like genetic makeup, nutrient availability, climate, soil and etc. The analysis variance revealed

that plant height was significantly (p < 0.05) affected by different levels of NPS fertilizer rate

(Appendix Table 2).

The tallest plant height (22.36 cm) was obtained from the treatment T11 received

102.5:115.0:21.18 kg ha-1 of N:P2O5:S whereas the shortest plant height was recorded in T1

(16.84 cm) which was not supplied with NPS fertilizer (Table 4.15).

The results of the study are in agreement with the findings of Hossain (1998), kacjan Marsic

and Osvald (2004) and Pramanik (2007) obtained the maximum plant height of cabbages with

increased nitrogen rates. Moreover in the research results of Moniruzzaman et al. (2006)

increased plant height was obtained from cabbage and broccoli plants treated with 240 kg N,

100 kg P and 80 kg K per hectare. Similarly, Thapa and Prasad (2011) obtained the maximum

plant height (32.57 cm) using the combined application of 120 kg nitrogen and 100 kg

phosphorus ha-1. Similarly, Akand et al. (2015) also obtained the maximum plant height

(36.82 cm) at 60 DAT by the application of 200 kg ha-1 of nitrogen. Hossain et al. (2011) also

obtained significantly maximum plant height (37.5 cm) of cabbage by the application of

nitrogen, phosphorous potassium and sulfur with the rates of 240 kg, 45 kg, 180 kg and 45 kg

per hectare, respectively.

Spread of plant

In head cabbage, a spread of plant indicates growth and development and is directly related to

yield. Successive increase in fertility level progressively increases the spread of plant. The

analysis of variance revealed that plant spread was significantly (P<0.01) influenced by the

different NPS fertilizer rates (Appendix Table 3).

The maximum plant spread (32.51cm) measured at 40 days after transplanting was found from

the treatments T11 (102.5:115:21.18 of N:P2O5:S kg ha-1) fertility level which was statistically

similar with T8 (31.73 cm) and minimum plant spread (18.66 cm) was observed from control

T1 (Table 4.15).

38

The result of this study is agreement with Prasad et al. (2009) reported the increasing levels of

nitrogen and phosphorus increased plant spread (3458.78 cm2). Similarly Rathore (2012)

observed significance difference in plant spread due to different source sulfur level at 40 days

after transplanting. According to Rathore (2012), the maximum spread of cabbage plants

(26.7cm) was recorded with the application of 60 kg ha-1 of sulfur which was similar with

plant spread obtained from application of 30 kg ha-1 of sulfur.

Number of leaves per plant

The analysis of variance revealed that there was significant in different (p < 0.01) effect of

NPS fertilizer rates on the number of cabbage leaves (Appendix Table 4). In cabbage, leaves

play an important role for photosynthesis and the number of leaves per plant is major in head

of Cabbage. Number of leaves per plant is an important parameter considering the highest

performance of Cabbage yield.

However, cabbage plants in T7, T2, T12, T11 and T9 produced relatively high number of

leaves per plant with the mean values of 13.8, 13.7, 13.6, 13.6 and 13.5, respectively (Table

4.15). Generally, treatments with high rates nitrogen in the study resulted relatively high

number of cabbage leaves which is in good agreement with the findings of Moniruzzaman et

al. (2006) who reported that the maximum number of leaves in broccoli was produced when

nitrogen was applied at higher rates. Similarly, Akand et al. (2015) and Shahbazi (2005)

reported that maximum number of leaves in cabbage (14.3) was obtained by application of

200 kg ha-1 of nitrogen and the minimum number of leaves (12.7) was recorded from

treatments where nitrogen was not applied. Similar results were also observed by Shahbazi

(2005). However, Gulser (2005) also reported significantly the highest (17) number of leaves

at the combined application of 200 kg N ha-1 and 15 t ha-1 FYM. Hence, the application of

nitrogen fertilizer stimulated vegetative growth by increasing the number of leaves. Similarly,

Karic et al. (2005) found non-significant increment of leaves in leek and spinach with

increasing of nitrogen fertilizer rates.

39

Table 4.15 Effects of NPS fertilizer rate on Plant height, Plant spread and number of

leaves per plant of head Cabbage at 40 DAT

Treatment

(N:P2O5:S kg ha-1)

PH (cm) SP (cm) NLP

T1 (0: 0: 0) 16.84c 18.660c 10.333d

T2 (82:92: 0) 20.433ba 25.433 b 11.80 dc

T3 (61.5:92:16.95) 19.157bc 26.507ba 12.1333bdc

T4 (61.5: 69: 12.71) 19.23b 28.020 ba 13.4667 bac

T5 (61.5:115:21.18) 19.650b 30.933 ba 12.7333 bc

T6 (82:69:12.71) 21.023 ba 31.793a 13.8333 bac

T7 (82:92:16.95) 20.70ba 28.140 ba 12.7333bc

T8 (82:115:21.18) 21.043ba 31.733a 13.4667 bac

T9 (102.5:69:12.71) 20.767ba 28.273ba 13.3667bac

T10 (102.5:92:16.95) 20.450ba 28.673 ba 14.033ba

T11 (102.5:115:21.18) 22.357a 32.507a 15.30 a

Mean 20.1500 28.24303 13.01818

SE ± 0.734319 1.795301 0.689348

LSD 5% 2.3626 6.2839 2.0612

CV 6.884139 13.06335 9.296395

Sign .difference * ** **

Values in each column of the same letter are not significantly affected at (alpha = 0.05) **=

highly Significance LSD = least significant difference; SE ± = standard error of the means

PH= Plant height, SP = Spread of plant and NLP= Number of leaves per plant

Days to 50% head initiation

The analysis of variance revealed that different levels of NPS had highly significant (P<0.01)

effect on 50% head initiation of cabbage (Appendix Table 5). Relatively early head initiation

was observed in T10 followed by T9 and T11 with the mean values of 53.0, 53.7 and 54.3

days after transplanting, respectively, where the values were statistically similar (p< 0.01)

when compared each other. On the other hand plants which were not supplied (T1) with NPS

fertilizer required relatively longer time to initiate head (71.7 days) (Table 4.16). Generally

plants supplied with high quantity of nitrogen, phosphorous and sulfur started to initiate head

relatively in short period of time. The results are in agreement with the findings of Hossain et

al. (2011) who reported that the earliest head initiation (53 days) was observed on cabbage

40

plants which were supplied with nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and sulfur with the ratio of

240:45:180:45 kg ha-1, respectively. On the other hand plants with no fertilizer application

required longer time (77.0 days) to initiate heads received minimum days required report

relatively early. Similarly Hoque et al. (2002) found shorter head initiation time in cabbage

plants which received organic and inorganic fertilizers.

Days to 75% head maturity

The analysis of variance indicated that different NPS fertilizer rates had highly significant (P <

0.01) effect on days required for head maturity (Appendix Table 6). The earliest 75% head

maturity (91.3 days) was observed in T7, followed by T9, T11 and T10 with the mean values

of 94.3, 96.3 and 97.3 days, respectively, where the mean values were statistically similar

when compared each other (Table 4.16). Control plants without NPS fertilizer (T1) matured

relatively late, about122 days after transplanting.

These results are in agreement with; Fatema (2012) who observed a significant effect of

fertilization on maturity of cabbage heads where fertilizer application reduced the date of

maturity compared to without fertilization. Sisay Hailu et al. (2008) reported the shortest

duration of carrot to reach maturity at the highest level of N (309 kg ha-1) and P (68 kg ha-1) as

compared to the low levels of N.

41

Table 4.16. Effects of NPS fertilizer rates on 50% head initiation and 75% head maturity

Values in each column of the same letter are not significantly affected at (alpha = 0.05)

** = highly significance; LSD = least significant difference; SE± = standard error of the

means

Volume per head

The analysis of variance revealed that head volume was significantly (P< 0.01) influenced by

different levels of NPS fertilizer (Appendix Table 7). The maximum head volume (1124 cc or

ml) was obtained from cabbage plants which were received nitrogen, phosphorous, sulfur (T6)

with ratio of 82:69:12.71 of N: P2O5: S, respectively (Table 4.17). The mean head volume

obtained from T6 was however statistically similar with the mean head volume obtained from

T11 with the mean values of 1094.3 cc or ml, relatively. The minimum head volume (218.6 cc

or ml) was obtained from cabbage plants which were not supplied with NPS fertilizer (T1).

Treatment

(N:P2O5:S kg ha-1) 50 % Head initiation 75% Head maturity

T1 (0: 0: 0) 71.667a 122a

T2 (82:92: 0) 61.667becd 100.667cb

T3 (61.5:92:16.95) 65.667ba 109.000b

T4 (61.5: 69: 12.71) 60.333bcd 102.667cb

T5 (61.5:115:21.18) 62.333bc 100.667cb

T6 (82:69:12.71) 56.333 fecd 99.000cb

T7 (82:92:16.95) 55.333fed 91.333c

T8 (82:115:21.18) 54.333 fed 97.667cb

T9 (102.5:69:12.71) 53.667fe 94.333c

T10 (102.5:92:16.95) 53.000f 97.333cb

T11 (102.5:115:21.18) 54.333fed 96.33 cb

Mean 58.78788 101

SE ± 2.533066 4.004006

LSD 5% 6.6409 12.76

CV 6.6325 7.417838

Sign .difference ** **

42

Head diameter

Head diameter is an important yield component of cabbage. The analysis of variance revealed

that head diameter was significantly (P< 0.01) influenced by different levels of NPS fertilizer

(Appendix Table 8). The maximum average head diameter (13.88 cm) was obtained in T11

who received 102.5:115:21.18 of N:P2O5:S kg ha-1. The average minimum head diameter

(6.99 cm) was recorded in control plants, without NPS fertilize (Table 4.17). The increase in

head diameter in this study is obviously associated with the increase in nitrogen, phosphorous

as well as sulfur which is in agreement with the findings of Hossain et al. (2011) who reported

the maximum average head diameter (17.2 cm) was found with the application of

240:45:180:45 kg ha-1 of N, P, K and S. The minimum head diameter (8.0 cm) was recorded

from control plants, without fertilizer application. Similarly, Din et al., (2007) reported

significant high head diameter was obtained from NPK fertilizer with the level of 120-90-60

kg ha-1.Similarly, Thapa and Prasad (2011) obtained the maximum head diameter (48.98 cm)

by the application 100 kg nitrogen and 100 kg phosphorus ha-1. Moreover, Akand et al., (2015)

reported maximum head diameter (12.43 cm) was observed in nitrogen fertilizer with the rate

of 200 kg ha-1 and the minimum (10.73 cm) was observed in plants without nitrogen fertilizer.

Head weight

Weight of head is an important yield component of head cabbage. The analysis of variance

revealed that head weight of cabbage was significantly (P < 0.01) affected by different rates of

NPS fertilizer (Appendix Table 9). The highest average weight of head (1.08 kg) was obtained

from plants in T10 who received 102.5:92:16.95 N:P2O5:S kg ha-1, followed by the heads

obtained from T11 (1.077 kg) which were statistically similar compared with each other. The

lowest average head weight (0.23 kg) was recorded from control plants (Table 4.17). Similar

results are observed by Prasad et al. (2009) who reported that the combined application of 120

kg and 100 kg ha-1 of nitrogen and phosphorous, respectively, gave the maximum plant height

(32.6 cm), leaf area (972.43 cm2) and head weight (1.63 kg) of cabbages. The application of

NPK at the rate of 470:222:371 kg ha-1, respectively, increased different yield parameters of

cabbage in Poonch Valley.

The combined application of 120 kg nitrogen and 100 kg phosphorus ha-1 recorded maximum

plant height (32.57 cm), leaf area (972.43 cm) and total head weight (1.63 kg).

43

Table 4.17. Effects of NPS fertilizer rate on Diameter of Head, Volume of Head and Head

Weight

Treatment

(N:P2O5:S kg ha-1)

Head diameter

(cm)

Head volume

(cm)

Head weight

(kg)

T1 (0: 0: 0) 6.99c 218.6c 0.23333f

T2 (82:92: 0) 12.8133ba 918.3ba 0.88000bdc

T3 (61.5:92:16.95) 11.35 b 632.6b 0.67333e

T4 (61.5: 69: 12.71) 12.7033ba 945.1a 0.78667 de

T5 (61.5:115:21.18) 12.4ba 991.2a 0.84000 dec

T6 (82:69:12.71) 13.0633a 1124.0a 1.00667bac

T7 (82:92:16.95) 13.1333a 992.7a 0.93333bdac

T8 (82:115:21.18) 13.2533a 981.7a 0.95000bdac

T9 (102.5:69:12.71) 13.21a 982.0a 0.95333bdac

T10 (102.5:92:16.95) 13.02a 983.9 a 1.08000a

T11 (102.5:115:21.18) 13.8767 c 1094.3a 1.07667ba

Mean 12.34667 896.7494 0.855758

SE ± 0.545172 108.1667 0.059699

LSD 5% 1.5929 301.37 0.1994

CV 7.575127 19.73184 13.68001

Sign .difference ** ** **

Values in each column of the same letter are not significantly affected at (alpha = 0.05) **=

highly significance; LSD = least significant difference; SE± = Standard error of the means

Yield of cabbage

Cabbage plants supplied with 102.5:115:21.18 kg ha-1 of N:P2O5:S (T11) produced

significantly (p < 0.01) the highest marketable yield (42.78 t ha-1) (Appendix Table 10).

Plants in T10, T6 and T9 produced the second highest marketable yield of cabbage with the

mean values of 40.7, 36.35 and 35.85 t ha-1, respectively, which were statistically similar (p <

0.01) when compared each other, On the other hand, the lowest marketable yield (2.34 t ha-1)

was obtained in control plants (T1), where no NPS fertilizer was applied (Table 4.18).

Cabbage plants supplied with no NPS fertilizer was applied (T1) produced significantly (p <

0.01) the highest unmarketable yield (5.41 t ha-1) (Appendix Table 11). The highest

unmarketable yield of cabbage was obtained from plants in T1 (5.41 t ha-1) followed by T9

44

(2.88 t ha-1) which was statistically similar (Table 4.18). The lowest unmarketable yield (1.21 t

ha-1) was obtained from plants in T6 supplied with 82:69:12.71 kg ha-1 of N:P2O5:S.

Cabbage plants supplied with 102.5:115:21.18 kg ha-1 (T11) of N:P2O5:S produced

significantly (p < 0.01) the highest total yield of head cabbage (44.93 t ha-1) (Appendix Table

12). Plants in T10, T6, T9 and T8 produced the second highest total yield of cabbage with the

mean values of 42.75, 38.03, 37.87 and 37.7 t ha-1, respectively, which were statistically

similar (p < 0.01) when compared each other, On the other hand, the lowest total yield of head

cabbage (7.75 t ha-1) was obtained in control plants (T1), where no NPS fertilizer was applied

(Table 4.18).

The results obtained from the experiment was in conformity with Hossain et al.(2011) who

reported that the maximum marketable yield (87.09 t ha-1) was recorded in treatment

receiving 240 kg N, 45 kg P, 180 kg K and 45 kg S ha-1 and the lowest marketable yield (24.67

t ha-1) was noted in control having no nutrients applied. Din et al. (2007) reported that the

maximum head yield was recorded in treatment receiving NPK level of 120-90-60 kg ha-1 in

cabbage. Akand et al. (2015) also reported that maximum (61.57 ton) yield per ha was

recorded from N2 (200 Kg ha-1) and the minimum (49.53 ton) was recorded from N0 (0 Kg ha-

1).

45

Table 4.18. Effects of NPS fertilizer rates on cabbage yield in the study area

Highly significance; CV= coefficient of variation; LSD = least significant difference; SE± =

standard error of the means; MYH= Marketable yield per hectare; UMYH = Unmarketable

yield per hectare; TYH= Total yield per hectare

4.3. Cost benefit analysis

Cost benefit analysis was done to determine the relative economic returns on the applied

treatments using the prevailing market prices. The yields were adjusted by 10% downwards

due to management level variability between a researcher and a farmer (CIMMYT, 1988). The

price of cabbage was obtained from personal communication with cabbage producers and

retailers around Gondar town and Lay Armachiho district town (Tkildegaye) which was the

nearest market to the study area.

The economic indicators used were: Gross benefit was estimated as the product of the

adjusted yield (t ha-1) and the sale prices (3.5 Birr kg -1) and calculated by multiplying the

yield in t ha-1 by the market price. Net benefit was calculated taking into account current

fertilizer current fertilizer prices ; Urea, DAP and NPS 10.24, 9.65 and 9.65 Birr kg -1

Treatment

(N:P2O5:S kg ha-1)

MYH (t ha-1) UMYH (t ha-1) TYH (t ha-1)

T1 (0: 0: 0) 2.340 e 5.4133a 7.753e

T2 (82:92: 0) 32.830c 2.1033cb 34.933c

T3 (61.5:92:16.95) 25.023 d 1.4733cb 26.497d

T4 (61.5: 69: 12.71) 29.370dc 1.6333cb 31.003dc

T5 (61.5:115:21.18) 31.167 dc 2.1200cb 33.287dc

T6 (82:69:12.71) 36.347bac 1.7167cb 38.063bac

T7 (82:92:16.95) 35.853bac 1.2133bc 37.067ac

T8 (82:115:21.18) 35.460bac 2.1967cb 37.657bac

T9 (102.5:69:12.71) 34.983bc 2.8833b 37.867bac

T10 (102.5:92:16.95) 40.730ba 2.0167cb 42.75ba

T11 (102.5:115:21.18) 42.787a 2.1467cb 44.933 a

Mean 31.53545 2.265152 33.80061

SE ± 2.22979 0.496681 2.337183

LSD 5% 7.6169 1.5105 7.8096

CV 14.18130 39.15148 13.56580

Sign .difference ** ** **

46

respectively, field price of cabbage was 3.50 Birr kg -1, cost of labor per day in the area is 45

Birr and the transportation cost for each 100 kg of fertilizer was 10 Birr. And also net benefit

was calculated by subtracting the total cost of production from the gross benefit. Marginal

analysis compares the net benefits with the total variable cost. The total variable cost was

determined for each treatment and was compared with the net benefit. Here also dominant

treatments were analyzed and arranged in terms of increasing variable costs. The

corresponding net benefits were also indicated. A treatment is dominant when it has a higher

cost but a lower net benefit than any preceding treatment. Finally, marginal rate of returns

were calculated (MRR), where the percentage change in benefit over change in total variable

cost in moving from a lower cost treatment to a higher one (Table 4.19). All the treatments

were arranged from the highest to the lowest in terms of profitability. This was achieved by

dividing the total variable cost by the net benefit multiplied by 100.

MRR (%) = x100

Only the adjusted marketable yields were considered for sale. The marketable yields, sales,

costs incurred due to use of the N:P2O5:S fertilizer, labor cost and the net benefit relative to the

benefits obtained from untreated control plots were calculated.

The marginal rate of returns, which determines the acceptability of any treatment showed that

treatments (T6) that received 82:69:12.71 kg ha-1 of N: P2O5: S gave the highest marginal rate

of return of 11156 % indicating that for every 1.00 birr invested for 82:69:12.71 kg ha-1 of

N:P2O5:S input and its application in the field, farmers can obtain an additional 111.56 Birr.

The second most promising result with marginal rate of returns 4748 % with net benefit of

124594.08 Birr ha-1 treatment that received 102.5:92:16.95 of kg ha-1 N: P2O5: S (Table 4.20).

47

Table 4.19. Cost gross income and net profit of cabbage as influenced by NPS fertilizer rates in Lay Armachiho District

Key: - LC: = Labor Cost, TVC: = Total Variable Cost, MY: = Marketable Yield, GI: = Gross income

Treatment

(N:P2O5:S kg ha-1)

Variable cost per ha Eth-Birr Income per ha

Fertilizer cost per ha

LC TVC MY

(t ha-1

Adjusted

yield (t ha-1) GI

GI -TVC

(Net Benefit) NPS UREA DAP

T1 (0: 0: 0) 0 0 0 0 0 2.34 2.106 7371 7371

T2 (82:92: 0) 1024 1930 418 3372 32.83 29.547 103415 100043

T3 (61.5:92:16.95) 1752.25 276.48 662 2690.73 25.023 22.5207 78822 76131.27

T4 (61.5: 69: 12.71) 2336.36 158.72 577 3072.08 29.37 26.433 92516 89443.92

T5 (61.5:115:21.18) 2920.38 40.96 747 3708.34 31.167 28.0503 98176 94467.66

T6 (82:69:12.71) 1752.25 486.4 769 3007.65 36.347 32.7123 114493 111485.35

T7 (82:92:16.95) 2336.36 368.64 684 3389 35.853 32.2677 112937 109548

T8 (82:115:21.18) 2920.38 250.88 854 4025.26 35.46 31.914 111699 107673.74

T9 (102.5:69:12.71) 1752.25 696.32 876 3324.57 34.983 31.4847 110196 106871.43

T10 (102.5:92:16.95) 2336.36 578.56 791 3705.92 40.73 36.657 128300 124594.08

T11 (102.5:115:21.18) 2920.38 460.8 961 4342.18 42.787 38.5083 134779 130436.82

48

Table 4.20. Marginal rate of return (MRR) of NPS fertilizer rates in Lay Armachiho District

Treatment

(N:P2O5:S kg ha-1) TVC

GI -TVC

(Net Benefit) MRR % Rank

T1 (0: 0: 0) 0 7371

T3 (61.5:92:16.95) 2690.73 76131.27 2555.00 4

T6 (82:69:12.71) 3007.65 111485.35 11156.00 1

T10 (102.5:92:16.95) 3705.92 124594.08 4748.00 2

T11 (102.5:115:21.18) 4342.18 130436.82 7183.00 3

Key: - MRR = Marginal Rate of Returns, TVC: = Total Variable Cost

49

CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENADTIONS

5.1 Conclusion

Head Cabbage is increasingly becoming important vegetable produced for domestic markets.

Farmers in the study area have relatively enough experience in the production of cabbage.

However, improving their skills and knowledge in agronomic practices and postharvest

handling techniques of cabbage may contribute to further increment of production and

productivity of cabbage in the area. Moreover most of the farmers used improved cabbage

varieties. However they plant them with alter plant spacing is be able to produce marketable

size heads.

Although the fertilizer rates used by most of the interviewed farmers are not in line with the

recommended rates, the productivity of cabbage in the study area is relatively above the

national average. This shows that the study area is suitable has high potential for the

production of the crop.

According to the respondents the major constraints of cabbage production in the study kebeles

were lack of training in the production of cabbage, occurrence of diseases and insect pests,

poor quality of cabbage seeds and shortage of short maturing varieties, and market problems.

All of the respondents (100 %) replied that lack of lack of training was the first and the most

constraints by the respondents of head Cabbage growers. The next, in Kerkir Bale’egziabher

(100 %), Chira Ambezo (90%) and Chachkuna (91.7 %) of the interviewed was disease and

insect pest highly faced whereas the rest 10% of Chira Ambezo and 8.3 % of Chachkuna no

problem.

The application of NPS fertilizer in this study affected almost all the growth and yield

parameters of cabbage. Among other the plant spread, number of leaves, diameter, weight and

volume of cabbage heads, marketable and total yield were maximal on plants treated with NPS

fertilizer at the rate of 102.5:115:21.18 kg ha-1 of N:P2O5:S. The highest marginal rate of

return however was obtained from cabbage plants supplied with N:P2O5:S. fertilizer rate of

82:69:12.71 kg ha-1 kg ha-1. Cabbage plants without NPS fertilizers were inferior in all

parameters considered in this study.

5.2 Recommendations

The above findings indicated that lay Armachiho district has a huge potential in the production

of cabbage production. Therefore production the crop in the study should be intensified and

50

diversified. However, cabbage producers in the area do not implement the recommended

agronomic practices such as fertilizer rates, plant spacing and required water quantity in the

production of cabbage which are necessary to increase the productivity of cabbage. Therefore

continuous training and extension services should be given by the respective stakeholders such

as Agricultural Offices, Universities and concerned Non-Governmental Organizations.

Moreover, the supply of inputs such as seeds of short maturing cabbage varieties and

pesticides should be improved. For this purpose it is necessary to support the private and

cooperative input suppliers and create a strong institutional linkage between input suppliers

and farmers.

Furthermore, the yield of cabbage at Lay Armachiho district can be increased by application

of N:P2O5:S fertilizer at the rate of 102: 115:21.18kg ha-1 whereas the highest marginal rate of

return however was obtained from cabbage plants supplied with NPS fertilizer rate of

82:69:12.71 kg ha-1 of N:P2O5:S. To develop forceful recommendation however, it is advised

to repeat the experiment on other kebeles of the district using different varieties of cabbage.

51

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60

APPENDIX

Appendix Table 1. Types and rates of fertilizers used for the production of cabbage in the

study area

Fertilizer DAP (kg ha-1) Percent Valid percent Total (%)

Used

50 3.13 3.33

56.667

75 3.13 3.33

100 9.38 10

125 3.13 3.33

133.33 3.13 3.33

138.89 6.25 6.67

142.86 3.13 3.33

150 6.25 6.67

166.67 6.25 6.67

166.7 3.13 3.33

168 3.13 3.33

187.5 3.13 3.33

200 15.63 16.67 16.667

222.22 6.25 6.67

26.667

240 3.13 3.33

250 9.38 10

280 3.13 3.33

300 3.13 3.33

Total 93.75 100 100

Grand total 100

61

Types and rates of fertilizers used for the production of cabbage in the study area

(Continued)

Fertilizer DAP (kg ha-1) Percent Valid percent Total (%)

Used

50 3.13 3.33

10

75 3.13 3.33

83.33 3.13 3.33

100 15.63 16.67 16.67

115 3.13 3.33

73.33

120 3.13 3.33

125 3.13 3.33

138.89 6.25 6.67

142.86 3.13 3.33

150 3.13 3.33

166.67 6.25 6.67

177.78 3.13 3.33

187.5 3.13 3.33

200 18.75 20

232 6.25 6.67

240 3.13 3.33

250 6.25 6.67

Total 93.75 100 100

Not used 0 6.25

Appendix Table 2. ANOVA Table for plant height

Source of variation Df SS MS F value Pr >value

Trt 10 60.9672 6.09672000 3.17 0.0135

Rep 2 3.32227273 1.66113636 0.86 0.4369

Error 20

Total 32

CV (%) 6.884139

R2 (%) 0.625546

LSD 2.3626

62

Appendix Table 3. ANOVA Table for plant spread

Source of variation Df SS MS F value Pr > value

Trt 10 459.5803636 45.9580364 3.38 0.0099

Rep 2 4.3470788 2.1735394 0.16 0.8535

Error 20

Total 32

CV (%) 13.06335

R2 (%) 0.630187

LSD 6.2839

Appendix Table 4. ANOVA Table for number of leaves per plant

Source of

variation

Df SS MS F value Pr>value

Trt 10 51.18909091 5.11890909 3.50 0.0083

Rep 2 8.94727273 4.47363636 3.05 0.0696

Error 20

Total 32

CV (%) 9.296395

R2 (%) 0.672447

LSD 2.0612

Appendix Table 5. ANOVA Table for 50 % Head initiation

Source of variation Df SS MS F value Pr>value

Trt 10 1038.848485 103.884848 6.83 0.0001

Rep 2 218.606061 109.303030 7.19 0.0044

Error 20

Total 32

CV (%) 6.632500

R2 (%) 0.805278

LSD 6.6409

63

Appendix Table 6. ANOVA Table for 75 % Head Maturity

Source of

variation

Df SS MS F value Pr>value

Trt 10 2088.666667 208.866667 3.72 0.0060

Rep 2 264.727273 132.363636 2.36 0.1204

Error 20

Total 32

CV (%) 7.417838

R2 (%) 0.677041

LSD 12.76

Appendix Table 7. ANOVA Table for Volume of Head

Source of variation Df SS MS F value Pr>value

Trt 10 1990064.715 199006.472 6.36 0.0002

Rep 2 270058.868 135029.434 4.31 0.0277

Error 20

Total 32

CV (%) 19.73184

R2 (%) 0.783048

LSD 301.37

Appendix Table 8. ANOVA Table for Diameter of Head

Source of

variation

Df SS MS F value Pr>value

Trt 10 106.5875333 10.6587533 12.19 <.0001

Rep 2 4.9355879 2.4677939 2.82 0.0833

Error 20

Total 32

CV (%) 7.575127

R2 (%) 0.864400

LSD 1.5929

64

Appendix Table 9. ANOVA Table for Weight of Head

Source of

variation

Df SS MS F value Pr>value

Trt 11 1.71773939 0.17177394 12.53 <.0001

Rep 2 0.04276970 0.02138485 1.56 0.2346

Error 22

Total 35

CV (%) 13.68001

R2 (%) 0.865283

LSD 0.1994

Appendix Table 10. ANOVA Table for Marketable Yield per Hectare

Source of

variation

Df SS MS F

value

Pr>value

Trt 10 3544.483618 354.448362 17.72 <.0001

Rep 2 45.163109 22.581555 1.13 0.3431

Error 20

Total 32

CV (%) 14.18130

R2 (%) 0.899740

LSD 7.6169

Appendix Table 11. ANOVA Table for Unmarketable Yield per Hectare

Source of

variation

Df SS MS F value Pr>value

Trt 10 38.56275758 3.85627576 4.90 0.0012

Rep 2 4.76375152 2.38187576 3.03 0.0710

Error 20

Total 32

CV (%) 39.15148

R2 (%) 0.733648

LSD 7.6169

65

Appendix Table 12. ANOVA Table for Total Yield per Hectare

Source of

variation

Df SS MS F value Pr>value

Trt 10 3016.168655 301.616865 14.35 <.0001

Rep 2 78.891315 39.445658 1.88 0.1792

Error 20

Total 32

CV (%) 13.56580

R2 (%) 0.880388

LSD 7.8096

66

ANNEX

Questionnaires for assessment of production and marketing of Cabbage

Part I. Demographic information

1. Name of farmer/Code: --------------------------------------

2. Sex of Household head a). Female b). Male

3. Age of Household head in Years

a) < 18 b) 19 -33 c) 33 - 48 d) > 48

4. Family size a) > 4 family member b) < 4 family member

5. Educational status of Household head

a) Literate b) Illiterate c) 1-6 grade d) 8-10 grade d). Others

6. District--------------------- Kebele /PA----------------------------

Part II. Farm practices

1. What is your total land holding?

a) < 0.25 b ) < 0.50ha c) 0.50 -1.0ha d) 1.0-1.50ha e) >1.50ha

2. What size of your land is dedicated for Cabbage production?

a) < 0.125 ha b) < 0.25ha c). 0.25-0.50 ha d).0.50-0.75ha e).1.0 ha

3. How long is your experience in Cabbage production?

a. 1-3 years b. 3 - 5 years c. 5-10 years d. Over 10 years

4. Where do you get your seeds from?

a) Private Vegetable Seed Suppliers (PVSS)

b) BoA c). Own Seed d) Colleague e) Others

5. Have you ever produced seeds of vegetables/Cabbage before?

a. Yes b. No

6. Which variety of Cabbage do you grow?

a) Copenhagen market b). Drum-head c). Others

7. When do you grow Cabbages?

a. Cropping season b. off season with irrigation c. Both

8. How many times in a year do you produce Cabbage?

a. Once b. Twice c. Trice

9. If you are producing Cabbages with irrigation, what is your source of water for

cultivation?

a. Rain b. River/springs c. Borehole d. Rain and River e. Others

67

10. If you are using irrigation, which method do you use?

a. Watering can b. Furrow Irrigation c. Flooding d Others

11. How frequently do you irrigate your Cabbages?

a) Every day b) within 3 – 4 days b. Every week c. Every two weeks d.

Others

12. Which method of planting do you follow for Cabbage?

a. Direct sowing b. Transplanting c. Both

13. If you are transplanting seedlings, at what stage do you do it?

a) Two pair of leaves stage b) Three pair of leaves stage c) four pair leaves stage d)

Six pair of leaves stage. e) Others

14. How long do you wait for seedlings to transplant?

a) Three weeks b. four weeks c. five weeks d. six weeks e. Others

15. Do you transplant your Cabbage seedlings in rows?

a. Yes b. No

16. What spacing do you follow when raising seedling?

a) 60 cm x 40cm b) 60 cm x 50cm c) 50 cm x50 cm d) Others

17. What time in the day do you transplant seedlings?

a) Early morning b) noon time c) late evening d) Others

18. Please provide details on the types of fertilizers, method and rate of their application

Practice

Urea

(kg/ha)

DAP

(kg/ha)

Compost

(kg/ha)

How much do you apply?

When do you apply?

How do you apply?

Who does apply fertilizers?

19. Do you grow Cabbages on the same piece of land every year?

a. Yes b. No

20. What kinds of diseases did you observe on your Cabbages plants?

A) Cabbage Yellows (Fusarium oxysporium) B) Black Rot of Crucifers

(Xanthomonas campestris) C) Downy Mildew D) others….

21. What measures did you take?

---------------------------------------------------

22. Which insect pest are causing serious problem at nursery and field level?

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a) Cut worm b) Thrips c) Wire Stem d) Aphids e) flea beetles f) Others

23. What measures did you take?

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Part III. Harvest and postharvest operation

1. How long does Cabbage take to reach harvesting?

a. 3months b. 3 ½ months c. 4 months d. 5 Months d. > 5months

2. How do you know when your Cabbage is ready for harvesting?

a) Number of day’s

b) Compactness of head (Firm head)

c) Head Size

d) Color of the head

e) Compactness of the head and color of the head

3. What time of the day are you harvesting your Cabbages?

a. Early morning b. Mid Noon c. late evening d. Any time of the day e.

Others--

4. What is the average productivity (kg/ha) of head Cabbages in your area? ----

5. Whom do you sell your Cabbages to?

a. Consumers b. Hotels/restaurants c. Brokers d. Whole sellers e.

Retailers

6. If you have to sale you Cabbages, how far do you travel?

a. 1 hour b. 2hours c. 3 hours d. 4 hours e. Others

7. How do you take your Cabbage to the market?

a. On foot b. By Pack animals c. By Vehicle d Others

8. How do you store your Cabbage?

a. Boxes b. sacks c. Ground floor d. Basket e. Others

9. If there is no good price for your Cabbage, what do you do with them?

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

10. For how long can you store your Cabbage?

a) 1week b) 2 weeks c) 3weeks d) 1month e) Others

Part V. What are the general problems in the production of head cabbage?

a) Lack of training

b) Quality of seed and shortage of short

maturity varieties

c) Shortage of irrigation water

d) Disease and insect pests

e) Market problems

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BIOGRAPHICAL SCKETCH

The author, Demoz Kidanie, was born in Gondar Town, North Gondar Zone of Amhara

National Regional state, Northern Ethiopia in November 19, 1981. He attended his elementary

school at the Tsadiku Yohannes and junior secondary school Atse Bekafa. He also attended

his high-school education at Ashewameda and Fasiledes Gondar senior secondary. After

passing the Ethiopian School Leaving Certificate Examination (ESLCE), he joined Jimma

University College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine graduated with Diploma in

General Agriculture and BSc in Horticulture in 2000 and 2007, respectively.

The author has served in Governmental Organization such as Tegede Armachiho and Merabe

Armachiho district more than ten years. He assigned to work as different market development

expert, extension team leader, root and vegetable expert, irrigation development team leader

and Horticultural expert. He also served in Non Governmental Organization in USAID

(FINTRAC CAMPANY) as oil seed and pulse crops extension agronomist in Tsehay union

multipurpose farmer cooperatives (Gondar town) for one and half years.

In April 2011, he joined North Gondar Zone Agriculture office as agronomist and now

working as a Horticultural expert. In 2014 he joined the school of graduate study at Bahir Dar

University Collage Agriculture and Environmental Sciences to pursue his M.Sc. degree in

horticulture. He is married and a father of two boys.