Hydroponics Fodder Yield Characteristics of Selected Local Seeds in Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

This study aimed to produce hydroponic fodders from selected local seeds and characterize their subsequent growth. The research was conducted in two phases. The initial phase assessed the germination potential of seven local seeds: white and red sorghum (Sorghum bicolor), millet (Pennisetum glaucum), maize (Zea mays), fonio (Digitaria exilis), groundnut (Arachis hypogaea), and soybean (Gycine max). Forty-five seeds of each type were primed by soaking in water for 4 hours, then weighed and divided into three replicates (15 seeds/replicate) in a completely randomized design (CRD). Seeds were monitored every 24 hours for 96 hours, with 12-hourly moistening, to determine daily germination rate and weight changes. Based on superior germination, white sorghum, red sorghum, and millet were selected for the next phase.

The second phase involved the production of hydroponic fodder. For each selected seed type, 2.5 kg were divided into five 500 g groups (T 1  to T5 ). T 1 served as the control (unsprouted seeds), while T 2  to T 5 were sprouted. The seeds were activated by soaking, drained after 4 hours, and left for 24 hours to hasten germination. They were then transferred to 12 x 16 x 1 (depth) in plastic trays with drainage in a randomized complete block design (RCBD), resulting in 15 trays (5 per seed type). The setup was housed in a naturally lit and airy room and irrigated three times daily for eight days to produce the fodder. Fodder yield characteristics and growth data were recorded on days 1, 4, 6, and 8.

The results indicated that fodder weights were comparable up to the fifth day, after which the millet recorded a significantly higher (p<0.05) final weight than the sorghums. Millet fodder increased in weight by 280.8% of the initial 500 g seed weight, compared to 201.6% for white sorghum and 236.8% for red sorghum. Conversely, the sorghum seeds produced significantly taller (p<0.05) fodder than millet.

In conclusion, both sorghum and millet seeds are suitable for hydroponic fodder production in southeastern Nigeria. Millet may be preferred for heavier fodder yield, while sorghum is advantageous for taller fodder growth.