Correlation Analysis between Yield and Agronomic Traits of Sorghum Genotypes Screened Under Low and High Soil Nitrogen Conditions

Sorghum is an important cereal crop in sub-Saharan Africa, but its production faces challenges due to poor soil fertility, particularly low nitrogen level. This study aimed to address the problem of low soil nitrogen as one of the factors limiting the production of sorghum in sub-Sahara Africa. Eighty-one sorghum genotypes were screened across two locations: Samaru and Minjibir in 2022. The experimental design included a low-N block and a high-N block at the two locations. A 9 x 9 lattice design with two replications was used for the experiment. Data collected on yield and agronomic traits, were subjected to Pearson correlation analysis confirmed significant positive association between yield and other agronomic traits, except for 100 seed weight, days to 50% flowering and days to maturity for both low soil and optimal soil nitrogen levels. Plant height had a significant (r= 0.43**) positive association with yield. Meanwhile panicle weight (r =0.33**), lodging rating (r = 0.38**), leaf death (r =0.36**) and desirability rating (r =0.61) also had significant positive association with yield. Making it possible to improve yield performance under low and high soil nitrogen conditions by improving these traits. Also, these traits serve as reliable indicators for selection of low soil nitrogen-tolerant genotypes. The findings hold practical significance for the development of more resilient and productive sorghum varieties, benefiting sub-Saharan African farmers grappling with nitrogen-deficient soils.

Agriculture (Plant Science)

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