Response of Two Pearl Millet Cultivars (Pennisetum glaucum) to Water Stress in the University Garden at Gadau, Bauchi State University

Abstract

The response of two pearl millet cultivars to water stress in the university garden at Gadau, Bauchi state university was investigated by the determination of number of leaves and height of shoot, biomass of roots and shoot. For the purpose of this study two pearl millet cultivars were selected (Gero and Maiwa). The plant seeds were collected from the local farmers in Gadau village of Bauchi state, Nigeria. Split plot experimental design was employed on the two treatments. The treatment that received water from the beginning of the experiment to the end served as the control, while the other treatment received water at an interval after 28 days for 14 days. Results recorded did not show major reduction in Gero and Maiwa biomass in the treatment that received water at interval. No significant difference (p<0.05) of root biomass, shoot biomass, height and number of leaves between the irrigated treatments and the water stressed.