Evaluation of the productivity of maize (ATP) under different sowing dates in the western highlands of Cameroon

This study aims to assess the effects of three sowing dates on the growth and yield of maize. The trial was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Dschang in Bansoa (Penka-Michel) over two growth cycles: 2020 and 2021. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design. Treatments, replicated three times, included a control (T) and three levels of fertilizer input: mineral fertilizer (E), organic fertilizer (F), and organo-mineral fertilizer (EF). The maize variety used was the Acid Tolerable Population (ATP). Sowing occurred sequentially on March 30, April 10, and April 20. Daily rainfall data were collected using a graduated cylinder rain gauge. Observations focused on growth and yield parameters at different sowing dates. The results obtained indicate that maize responded significantly to different sowing dates (p < 0.05). Fertilizer application also positively influenced growth compared to the control. The tallest plants were observed in the F treatment sown during the first date (300 cm). Similarly, the collar diameter followed the same trend, with the F treatment measuring 3.43 cm compared to 2.14 cm for the control, indicating significant differences. Yield results showed the first sowing date > second date > third date. The highest yield was achieved with the EF treatment during the first period (6985 kg/ha), compared to the control during the third period (2009 kg/ha). Within each period, the yield results followed the order: EF > E > F > T. Organic fertilizers alone also produced favorable results compared to the control. Given the current climatic conditions and the results obtained, maize sowing conducted in the first sowing period (March 30) with organo-mineral fertilizer would likely result in optimal grain yield.