Anthony Uhuomwan 1, Clifford Umeri 2,*, Eunice Belonwu 3 and Angwu Dennis Samuel1
1Department of Crop Science and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria; 2Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Delta, P.M.B 2090, Agbor, Delta State, Nigeria; 3Department of Agricultural Extension, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Delta, P.M.B 2090, Agbor, Delta State, Nigeria
*Corresponding author: Clifford.umeri@unidel.edu.ng
In order to determine how seeding rate affected the forage yield, mineral composition, and nutrient uptake of two local pearl millet (Pennisetum typhoides Burm. f.) varieties Gero Bida and Gero Badeggi, a field experiment was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, Emaudo Annex, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma. In a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates, the study used a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement. Two millet varieties and four seeding rates (1, 2, 3, and 4 seeds per hole) were used as treatments, which corresponded to 53,333, 106,666, 159,999, and 213,332 plants/ha. Growth parameters, dry matter and forage yield, mineral composition, and nutrient uptake were among the data gathered. There were notable variations between the treatments. One seed per hole produced the tallest plants (219.20cm), the most leaves (12.63) per plant, the largest total leaf area (10,806.50cm2), the highest forage yield (27.63t/ha), and the highest dry matter yield (4.49t/ha) among Gero Badeggi plants. It also showed the highest concentration of minerals and the most significant uptake of nutrients. On the other hand, the highest dry matter percentage (23.15%) was found in Gero Bida that was planted with four seeds per hole. According to the study, for optimal forage productivity and nutritional quality in humid conditions, Gero Badeggi should be planted with one seed per hole. The findings have important ramifications for agricultural extension since they offer evidence-based recommendations for sustainable forage production, variety selection, and seeding rate optimization. These results can enhance livestock feed quality, improve resource efficiency, and inform extension programming.