EFFECTS OF BLENDED NPSB FERTILIZER RATES AND INTRA-

ROW SPACING ON YIELD AND YIELD RELATED TRAITS OF

POTATO (Solanum tuberosum L.) UNDER IRRIGATION IN DEBRE
LIBANOS DISTRICT, CENTRAL HIGHLANDS OF ETHIOPIA

MSc THESIS

ASNAKE MEKONEN

NOVEMBER 2019
HARAMAYA UNIVERSITY, HARAMAYA
Effects of Blended NPSB Fertilizer Rates and Intra-Row Spacing on Yield
and Yield Related Traits of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under Irrigation
in Debre Libanos District, Central Highlands of Ethiopia

A Thesis Submitted to School of Plant Sciences

Postgraduate Program Directorate
HARAMAYA UNIVERSITY

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURE
(AGRONOMY)

Asnake Mekonen

August 2019
Haramaya University, Haramaya
 HARAMAYA UNIVERSITY
POSTGRADUATE PROGRAM DIRECTORATE

We hereby certify that we have read and evaluated this thesis entitled “Effects of Blended
NPSB Fertilizer Rates and Intra-Row Spacing on Yield and Yield Related Traits of
Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Under Irrigation in Debre Libanos District, Central
Highlands of Ethiopia’’ prepared under our guidance by Asnake Mokenen. We recommend
that it be submitted as fulfilling the thesis requirement.

Dr. Wassuu Mohammed (PhD) ________________ ______________

Major advisor Signature Date

Prof. Tamado Tana (PhD) _________________ ______________

Co-advisor Signature Date

As members of the Board of Examiners of the MSc Thesis open defense examination, we
certify that we have read and evaluated the Thesis prepared by Asnake Mekonen and
examined him. We recommend that the Thesis be accepted as it fulfills the requirements for
the Degree of Master of Science in Agronomy.

__________________ __________________ _________________

Chairperson Signature Date

________________ __________________ _________________

Internal Examiner Signature Date

_____________________ ___________________ ________________

External Examiner Signature Date

Final approval and acceptance of the Thesis is contingent upon the submission of its final copy
to the Council of Graduate Studies (CGS) through the candidate’s School Graduate Committee
(SGC).

ii
 DEDICATION

This thesis is dedicated to my lovely wife Fikertemariyam Habtamu and my little son Beniyas
Asnake.

iii
 STATEMENT OF THE AUTHOR

By my signature below, I declare and affirm that this Thesis is a result of my own work. I have
followed all ethical and technical principles of scholarship in the preparation, data collection,
data analysis and compilation of this Thesis. Any scholarly matter that is included in the
Thesis has been given due recognition through citation. This Thesis is submitted in partial
fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science at Haramaya University.
The Thesis is deposited in the Haramaya University library and is made available to borrowers
under the rules of the library. I solemnly declare that this Thesis has not been submitted to any
other institution anywhere for the award of any academic degree, diploma or certificate. Brief
quotations from this Thesis may be made without requiring special permission provided that
an accurate and complete acknowledgement of the source is made. Requests for permission for
extended quotations from or reproduction of this Thesis in whole or in part may be granted by
the Head of the School or Department when in his or her judgment the proposed use of the
material is for a scholarly interest. In all other instances, however, permission must be
obtained from the author of the Thesis.

Name: Asnake Mekonen

Signature: _____________ Date: _____________
School: Plant Sciences

iv
 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

The author, Asnake Mekonen was born on September 21, 1988 at Seru District, Arsi Zone,
Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. He attended elementary education at Seru Primary School
from 1997 to 2004. He pursued secondary education at Robe Dedea Secondary School from
2005 to 2006. After successfully passing the Ethiopian General Secondary Education
Certificate (EGSEC) examination; he attended higher education at Robe Dedea Preparatory
School from 2007 to 2008. After passing the Ethiopian Higher Education Entrance Certificate
Examination (EHEECE), he joined Arba Minch University in February 2009 and graduated
with the Degree of Bachelor of Science in Plant Sciences on July 2011.

On March 2012, he was employed in Oromia Regional State in North Shoa Zone Debre
Libanos District Agriculture and Natural Recourse office as an expert of Agronomy. He
served up to September 2013.Then after; he was employed in Irrigation Development
Authority of Oromia Regional State in North Shoa Zone, Debre Libanos District as an expert
of Irrigation Agronomy up to 2017. In July 2017, he joined the Post-graduate Program
Directorate of Haramaya University to pursue a study leading to the Degree of Master of
Sciences in Agriculture (Agronomy).

v
 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation and special gratitude to all persons who, in
one way or another, contributed to the accomplishment of this study. Special appreciation and
deepest thanks go to the research advisors Dr. Wassu Mohammed and Prof. Tamado Tana for
their continued guidance, inspiration, encouragement and support throughout the study period
which made the compilation of this study smooth and successful. The constructive criticisms
and valuable suggestions they gave me during planning the research work as well at the time
of conducting the field research and writing up of the thesis were pivotal for my ultimate
success.

I would also like to express my special appreciation to all staff members of Debre Libanos
District Agriculture and Natural resource office especially, Mr. Tesfamikael, Mr. Muluken,
Mr.Birhanu, and Mr. Ashenafi for the valuable, consistent logistic support and advice they
gave me during my study. I would also like to thank support of all my friends at Debre Tsige
and other place, Mr. Shelema, Mr. Muluneh, Mr. Fikru, Mr. Ketema, Mr. Beruk and Mr.
Mesfin for their valuable help and moral support.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Oromia Water Work Design and Enterprise
soil laboratory service and Jije Laboglass Private Limited Company for their support in soil
analysis work.

I sincerely express my indebtedness to my family as a whole, especially to my beloved

mother, Werki Merga, my brothers Getachew Mekonen, Daniel Mekonen, Bekele Mekonen,
and my beloved wife Fikertemariyam Habtamu for their encouragement, moral support,
affection, and prayers which served me as a source of strength, inspiration and impetus
throughout the study period.

Above all, I would like to Praise and Glorify the Supreme Almighty God for providing me
with the strength and patience that I required to complete the study.

vi
 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

ANOVA Analysis of Variance

CEC Cation Exchange Capacity
CIMMYT International De Mesoramien to De Maiz Y Trigo (Spanish)
CIP International Potato Center
CSA Central Statistical Agency
CV Coefficient of Variance
DAP Diammonium Phosphate
DLDAO Debre Libanos District Agriculture Office
ETB Ethiopian Birr
EthioSIS Ethiopian Soil Information System
FAO Food and Agriculture Organization
FAOSTAT Food and Agricultural Organization Statistic
LSD Least Significant Difference
masl Meter above sea level
MoA Ministry of Agriculture
MoARD Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development
MRR Marginal Rate of Return
NPS Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Sulphur
NPSB Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Sulphur, Boron
RCBD Randomized Complete Block Design

vii
 TABLE OF CONTENT
DEDICATION iii
STATEMENT OF THE AUTHOR iv
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH v
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS vi
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS vii
TABLE OF CONTENT viii
LIST OF TABLES xi
LIST OF FIGURE xii
LISTS OF APPENDIX TABLE xiii
ABSTRACT xiv
1. INTRODUCUTION 1
2. LITERATURE REVIEW 4
2.1. Description and Distribution of Potato 4
2.2. Economic Importance of Potato in Ethiopia 5
2.3. Effect of NPSB Fertilizer on Yield and Yield Related Traits of Potato 6
2.3.1. Effect of nitrogen on yield and yield related traits of potato 6
2.3.2. Effect of phosphorous on yield and yield related traits of potato 8
2.3.3. Effect of sulphur on yield and yield related traits of potato 9
2.3.4. Effect of boron on yield and yield related traits of potato 10
2.4. Effects of NPSB Fertilizer on Potato Tuber Quality Parameter 10
2.4.1. Dry matter content 10
2.4.2. Tuber specific gravity 11
2.5. Effects of Spacing on Yield and Yield Related Traits of Potato 12
2.6. Effects of Irrigation Yield and Yield Related Traits of Potato 14
3. MATERIALS AND METHODS 15
3.1. Description of the Experimental Site 15

viii
TABLE OF CONTENT (Continued)
3.2. Experimental Materials 16
3.3. Soil Sampling and Analysis 16
3.4. Treatments and Experimental Design 17
3.5. Experimental Procedures and Field management 17
3.6. Data Collection and Measurements 18
3.6.1. Crop phenology 18
3.6.2. Growth parameters 18
3.6.3. Yield components and yield 19
3.6.4 Tuber quality parameter 20
3.7. Agronomic Efficiency 20
3.8. Data Analysis 20
3.9. Partial Budget Analysis 21
4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 23
4.1. Pre-Planting Physicochemical Properties of the Soil 23
4.2. Phenology and Growth of Potato 24
4.2.1. Phenology of potato 24
4.2.2. Growth of potato 26
4.2.2.1. Plant height 27
4.2.2.2. Number of main stems per hill 28
4.3. Yield Components of Potato 29
4.3.1 Average tuber mass and tuber weight 29
4.3.2. Marketable and unmarketable tuber number 31
4.3.3. Tubers size distribution 33
4.3.3.1. Small and very small tuber size 33
4.3.3.2. Large and medium tuber size 34
4.4. Tuber Yields of Potato 36
4.4.1 Marketable and unmarketable tuber yields 36
4.4.2. Total tuber yield 37

ix
TABLE OF CONTENT (Continued)
4.5. Dry Matter and Specific Gravity of Tubers 38
4.6. Agronomic Efficiency 40
4.7. Partial Budget Analysis 41
5. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION 43
6. REFRENCES 46
7. APPENDICS 61

x
 LIST OF TABLES

Table Page
1. Physical and chemical properties of soil of the study area before planting 24
2. Main effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing on phenology 26
of Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos District during 2019 off-season under
irrigation.
3. Maine effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra row spacing on plant 30
height of Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos District during 2019 off-season under
irrigation.
4. Interaction effect of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row on average tuber 33
mass and tuber weight of Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos District during 2019
off-season under irrigation.
5. Main effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing on number of 35
marketable and unmarketable tubers of Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos District
during 2019 off-season under irrigation.
6. Main effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing on tuber size 37
categories of Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos District during 2019 off-season
under irrigation.
7. Interaction effect of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing on tuber 37
yields of Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos District during 2019 off-season under
irrigation
8. Main effects of NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing on tuber quality related 39
parameters of Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos District during 2019 off-season
under irrigation.
9. Agronomic efficiency as ratio of tuber yield to NPSB fertilizer rates at three intra- 41
row spacing in potato at Debre-Lebanos District during 2019 off-season under
irrigation.
10. Partial budget Analysis of effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra row 42
spacing on yield related traits and tuber Yield of potato at Debre-Lebanos District
during 2019 off-season under irrigation.

xi
 LIST OF FIGURE

Figure Page
1 Location map of study area 15

xii
 LISTS OF APPENDIX TABLE

Table Page

1 Mean squares from analysis of variance for crop phenology, crop growth, and tuber yield 62
and quality related traits of potato as influenced by blended NPSB Fertilizer rates and
intra row spacing.
2 Analysis of variance for agronomic efficiency as ratio of tuber yield to NPSB fertilizer 62
rates at three intra-row spacing in potato at Debre Libanos District during 2019 off
season under irrigation.
3 Main effects of blended NPSB fertilizer and intra-row spacing on yield and yield 63
related traits of Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos District during 2019 off- season under
irrigation.

xiii
 Effects of Blended NPSB Fertilizer Rates and Intra-Row Spacing on Yield
and Yield Related Traits of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under Irrigation
in Debre Libanos District, Central Highlands of Ethiopia

ABSTRACT

Potato is one of food and cash crop in Debre Libaanos District of central highlands of
Ethiopia. However, the yield of the crop is low due to various constraints of which poor soil
fertility and lack of proper plant spacing recommendation specific to the District. Therefore, a
field experiment was conducted to asses’ effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-
row spacing on yield and yield related traits of potato and to estimate cost-benefit of NPSB
fertilizer for potato production in Debre Libaanos District during 2019 off-season under
irrigation. The treatments consists of five rates of blended NPSB fertilizer (0, 150, 200, 250
and 300 kg ha-1) and three intra-row spacing (20, 30 and 40 cm). The experiment was laid out
as a Randomized Complete Block Design in a 5 x 3 factorial arrangement and replicated three
times. The results of analysis of variance revealed that the main factors, intra-row spacing
and Blended NPSB fertilizer had significant effect on phenology, growth, yield components,
yield and tuber quality related traits except number of main stem hill-1 and Blended NPSB
fertilizer had non-significant effect on tuber dry matter content (%) and specific gravity of
tubers as well as proportion of medium size tubers did not significantly influenced by intra-
row spacing. Interaction of NPSB fertilizer and intra-row spacing significantly influenced
average tuber mass, average tuber weight, marketable tuber yield (t ha-1), unmarketable tuber
yield (t ha-1), and total tuber yield (t ha-1). The plants at intra-row spacing of 40 cm had
significantly delayed days to 50% flowering and days to 90% maturity at about 60 and 113
days after planting, respectively, while the application of highest rates of NPSB fertilizer (300
kg ha-1) significantly delayed 50% of plants flowering and 90% maturity at about 61 and 114
days after planting, respectively. The tallest plants were observed at wider intra-row spacing
(30 and 40 cm) and higher rates of NPSB fertilizer (250 and 300 kg ha -1). The highest tubers
dry matter and specific gravity of 27.04% and 1.095, respectively, were estimated from plants
at 40 cm intra-row spacing. The higher marketable tuber yield of 42.19 and 41.47 t ha-1
obtained from plants at 30 and 20 cm intra-row spacing, respectively, with the application of
250 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer and significantly higher total tuber yield of 44.6 and 43.32t ha-1
obtained at 20 and 30 cm intra-row spacing, respectively, with the application of 250 kg ha-1
NPSB fertilizer. The higher agronomic efficiency at ratio of 93.07:1 and 82.22:1 total tuber
yield to applied NPSB fertilizer were estimated from plants at 30 and 20 cm intra-row
spacing, respectively, with application of 250 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer. Moreover, the maximum
net benefit of (249291.50Birr ha-1) with highest marginal rate of return (7861.33%) was
obtained from the application of 250 kg ha-1 blended NPSB fertilizer rates and 30 cm intra-
row spacing. Therefore, it can be concluded that 250 kg ha-1 blended NPSB fertilizer rates and
30 cm intra-row spacing could be provisionally recommended for potato growers in study
area.

Keywords: Agronomic efficiency, Growth, Marginal rate of return, and Tuber

quality related traits.

xiv
 1. INTRODUCUTION

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) belongs to the family of Solanaceae and genus Solanum
(Haward, 1969). It is considered to be the third most important food crop after rice and wheat -
in terms of production and consumption in all over the world (FAO, 2015). The crop produces
much more dry matter in a shorter life cycle that results in large amounts of nutrients removed
per unit time compared with cereal crops (Singh et al,.1998), which generally most of the soils
are not able to supply sufficient nutrients to its production (Islam et al., 2013). Potato is an
important food and cash crop in eastern and central Africa, because it is playing a major role
in national food security and nutrition, poverty alleviation and income generation, and
provides employment in the production, processing and marketing sub-sectors (Lung’aho et
al., 2007). In Ethiopia, It is regarded as high-potential food security crop, because it provides
high yield of high-quality product per unit input with a shorter crop cycle (mostly < 120 days)
than major cereal crops such as maize (Adane et al., 2010; MoARD, 2011).

Potato is an important crop in many parts of Ethiopia since its introduction in the 19th century
by a German Botanist Schimper (Pankhurst, 1964). Potato ranks first among root and tuber
crops in volume of production followed by sweet potato, taro and onion. However, the
productivity of potato in the country is very low (13.92 t ha-1) (CSA, 2018) as compared to the
world’s average yield of 20.11t ha-1 (FAOSTAT, 2017). Oromia Regional state accounted
55.92% of the total area allocated for potato in the country during 2017/18 Meher season but
the share of the region to total potato yield was 50.04% and had lower average yield of 12.46 t
ha-1 than the national average yield of 13.92 t ha-1 (CSA, 2018).

The gap between the potential yield and actual average national yield per unit area of land
could be due to unavailability and high price of quality seed tubers, lack of improved varieties,
unbalanced fertilizations, low use of organic manures, and low market price at the time of
harvesting, diseases and post-harvest losses (Tesfaye, 2011). Lack of appropriate fertilizer
blends micronutrients in fertilizer blends is a national problem constituting a major constraint
to crop productivity (Bekabil et al., 2011).

The absence of recommended fertilizer types and rates best fit to the specific area and
production system is also production constraint of potato (Haverkort et al., 2012). It is
imperative to increase the productivity alone with desirable attributes through production
management practices and application of other sources of nutrients beyond the blanket
recommendation of urea and DAP, especially those that contain potassium, sulfur and other
micro nutrients (EthioSIS, 2015). Muluneh (2018) reported that Belete variety produced the
highest and economical marketable yield (34.24 t ha-1) at the application of 250 Blended
NPSB kg ha-1 and 165kg ha-1 urea fertilizer rate in Degem District, central high lands of
Ethiopia. Minwyelet (2017) also report that application of NPS fertilizer at the rate of 272 kg
ha-1 produced the highest total tuber yield (47.53 t ha-1) while potato plants without NPS
fertilizer produced the lowest total tuber yield (17.32 t ha.-1).

Plant density is also the main management area for potato tuber production because of its
effect on the seed cost, plant development, yield and quality of the crop (Bussan et al., 2007).
The potato yield can be maximized at higher plant populations or by regulating the number of
stems per unit area (Brien and Allen, 2009). Rahemi et al. (2005) also reported that the 20 cm
intra-row spacing showed 36.39% increase in yield in comparison with 30 cm spacing of
potato. As plant density increases, there is a marked decrease in plant size and yield per plant.
This effect is due to increased inter-plant competition for water, light and nutrients
(Masarirambi et al., 2012). Plant density in potato affects some important plant traits such as
total yield, tuber size distribution and tuber quality (Samuel et al., 2004). Research conducted
in central Ethiopia, North Shoa zone at Fiche indicated the maximum marketable tuber yield
(29.66t ha-1) and total tuber yield (40.33t ha-1) were obtained in response to seed tuber spacing
of 80cm × 30 cm (Abera et al., 20017).

The intra-row spacing of 20 cm was considered as recommendation for seed tubers production
of potato (Berga et al., 1994). There are still many farmers who grow potatoes frequently
giving less regard to optimal plant population density for production of ware and seed
potatoes. Moreover, tubers are often planted by smallholder farmers at narrower and erratic
spacing resulting in non-optimum plant population densities that may result in low and erratic
yields. Therefore, too low or too high plant population densities that are not determined
according to the specific morphological features of cultivars is one of the major problems
explaining low yields of the crop in the country. Neither 20 cm intra-row spacing nor the
national intra-row spacing of 30 cm was not practiced in Debre Libanos District.
The national recommendation of intra-row spacing and fertilizer types (DAP and Urea) and
rates in the past was both for main cropping (rain fed) and off season under irrigation. The
response of potato varieties for the applied intra-row spacing, fertilizer types and rates might
have differences at rain feed and off season under irrigation. The primary advantages of
production of irrigated potatoes over rain-fed potatoes are higher yields, early maturity and
drought protection (Scherer et al., 1994).

In North Shoa Zone and particularly in Debre Libanos District, potato is used as a food crop
and source of income for the community, However, the productivity of potato in the study area
is very low 10.9 t ha-1 (DLDAO, 2018) as compared to national yield of 13.92 t ha-1 (CSA,
2018).The production problems that account for low yields and tuber quality for this District
are similar to those identified in different areas of Ethiopia, such as of improper planting, low
fertilizer rates and types of fertilizers. This suggested the need to application of optimum rates
of fertilizers and proper plant density to overcome the production problems. In addition, soils
in Debre Libanos District were identified deficient in N,P, S and B, blended fertilizer (NPSB)
was recommended to substitute Diammonim Phosphate (DAP) fertilizer (EthioSIS, 2014) for
all crops not specific for potato. Potato is produced both under rain feed (main cropping
season) and off season under irrigation in Debre Libanos District, but there is no
recommendation of rates of fertilizers and intra-row spacing for irrigation potato production.
This showed the importance of conducting research on effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates
and intra-row spacing on yield and yield related traits of potato in Debre Libanos District
under irrigation to increase the potato tuber yield.

Therefore, this research was undertaken with the following objectives:

o to asses effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing on yield
and yield related traits of potato; and
o to evaluate the cost-benefit of NPSB fertilizer rates in potato production.
 2. LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1. Description and Distribution of Potato

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) was first domesticated in the area around Lake Titicaca, which
is located 3800 masl on the border of modern-day Bolivia and Peru, in the Andes mountain
range of South America (Hielke et al., 2011). There are two major species of Solanum
tuberosum; andigena or andian, and tuberosum or Chilean. The Andian potato is adapted to the
short day conditions prevalent in the mountainous equatorial and tropical regions where it was
originated whereas, the Chilean adapted to the long day conditions prevalent in the higher
latitude regions of southern Chile, especially on Chiloe Archipelago where it is thought to
have originated. Potato that we know as an important world crop is a single species Solanum
tuberosum, belonging to the family Solanaceae, genus Solanum, sub-genus pachstemonum,
and section tuberarium (Ewing, 1997).

Potato was introduced to Europe in the 17th Century (Sponner, 2010). Missionaries may have
played a crucial role in the distribution of Solanum tuberosum from Europe throughout the
world (Sauer, 1993). It is cultivated worldwide in over one hundred countries throughout
Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and North and South America and is native to South America
(Eskin and Michael, 1989). Currently, China is the leading potato producer (96.13 million
tons) while India (45.4 million tons t) and Russian (31.5 million tons) countries follows with
production in the world (FAOSTAT, 2017). It was introduced to Ethiopia in 1858 by the
German Botanist, Schimper (Pankhurst, 1964). In Ethiopia distribution of potato delineated
that Oromia, Amhara, South Nation and Nationality Peoples Region and Tigray with coverage
of 46%, 34%, 19% and 1%, respectively. Oromia is the major potato producing region due to
the ecological suitability of area like Arsi, the rift valley area, east and west Hararghe and
North and West Shewa Zone which are the major suppliers of potato (Bezabih and Mengistu,
2011).

Potato is a weather sensitive crop with a wide variation among cultivars. It is a crop of the
temperate climate and it is moderately tolerant to frost. Potato can be cultivated worldwide,
under various environmental and soil conditions. Potatoes generally require a high altitude of
about 1200 masl, cool temperatures ranging between 15 and 20°C and high rainfall ranging
between 1000 and 1500 mm per year (Gusha, 2014). Potatoes have relatively shallow root
zone and lower tolerance for water stress compared to other crops, therefore irrigation may be
required where rainfall is limited (Makani et al., 2013). Environmental factors such as
temperature, sunlight, moisture, nutrients and soil conditions, influence the growth and quality
of potato tubers (Parrot, 2010).

Soil temperature is also important for growth and development of potato. Optimum soil
temperatures for normal tuber growth are 15 to 18°C. Cool conditions at planting lead to slow
emergence of seed tubers which may extend the growing period of potato plant. Early varieties
bred for temperate climates require a day length of 15 to 17 hours while the late varieties
produce good yields under both long and short day conditions. For tropical climates, varieties
which tolerate short days condition are required (FAO, 2013).

Potato can be grown on any soils which are rich in organic matter and it requires a well-
drained, aerated and porous sandy loam or loamy sand soils with the pH range for potato
production of from 4.5-7.5 (MoA, 2011). Optimum potato growth and profitable production
depend on many management factors, one of which is ensuring a sufficient supply of nutrients.
Therefore, a comprehensive nutrient management program is essential for maintaining a
healthy potato crop, optimizing tuber yield and quality, and minimizing undesirable impacts
on the environment (Onder et al., 2005). Consequently, potatoes are often unable to exploit
nutrients and soil moisture fully within a soil profile and this result in their relatively high
demand for many nutrients. Nutrients uptake is at its greatest during tuber bulking stage; it is
important to supply the required plant nutrients during the tuber bulking stage in right N-P-K
ratio and in sufficient quantities (Haifa, 2014).

2.2. Economic Importance of Potato in Ethiopia

Potato is a very important food and cash crop in Ethiopia, especially in the highland and mid
altitude areas (Hussain, 2016). The potato crop can contribute to improving food and
nutritional security. It is regarded as a high potential food security crop for densely populated
highland regions because of its ability to provide a high yield per unit input with a short crop
cycle than major cereal crops (Adane et al., 2010). It provides considerable dry matter (20
g/100g) per unit area and time. It is a rich source of carbohydrates (22.6 g/100g), starch (16.3
g/100 g) and proteins (1.6 g/100g). Potatoes are also rich source of vitamins, especially C and
B and also minerals. Tubers contain 70-80% water, 20.6% carbohydrate, 2.1% protein, 0.3%
fat, 1.1% crude fiber and 0.9% ash (Banjare et al., 2014).

Potato tubers are not only rich in carbohydrates, but are a mineral resource for consumption as
well as the food needs of half a billion people in the world (FAO, 2015). The nutritional value
of potato tubers is a key factor for its progressive production, along with the economic benefits
that potato cultivation can bring to developing countries (Canali et al., 2010). The relatively
high carbohydrate and low fat content of potato makes it an excellent energy source for human
consumption. It is known to supply carbohydrate, high quality protein and a substantial
amount of essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements (MoARD, 2011). From agronomic
point of view, potato is considered as an important preceding crop in crop rotation for wheat,
maize and grain pulses that reduces the problem of weed and incidence of diseases (MoA,
2011).

2.3. Effect of NPSB Fertilizer on Yield and Yield Related Traits of Potato

2.3.1. Effect of nitrogen on yield and yield related traits of potato

Nitrogen is very important nutrient in potato production. Nitrogen is taken up from the soil in
the form of nitrate (NO3-) or ammonium (NH4+). A good supply of nitrogen stimulates root
growth and development as well as the uptake of other nutrients (Brady and Weil, 2002). It is
a very dynamic plant nutrient and its above recommendation application can considerably
raise the price of agricultural production, inefficient utilization by plants that may result in
environmental pollution (Moreno et al., 2003).

Applications of N fertilizer can increase the yield and yield components of potato (Zelalem et.
al., 2009). The increase in average tuber weight of tubers in response to the increased supply
of fertilizer nutrients could be due to more luxuriant growth, more foliage and leaf area and
higher supply of photosynthesis which may have induced formation of bigger tubers thereby
resulting in higher yields (Patricia and Bansal, 1999). Nitrogen element is the nutrient that
most frequently limits yield and quality of potato crop (Güler, 2009).The main role of N is in
swift development of shoot and allows the plant to quickly complete its canopy and exploit the
growth period as much as possible.

Nitrogen fertilizer increases the nitrogen uptake and this increase has a positive effect on
chlorophyll concentration, plant height, photosynthetic rate, total number of leaves and dry
matter accumulation (Israel et al., 2012). According to Zelalem et al. (2009), application of
207 kg N/ha increased plant height, the above ground biomass by 224.5%, underground
biomass by 108%, marketable tuber yield by 175%, total tuber yield by 119%, marketable
tuber number by 95.6%, and total tuber number by 34% and average tuber weight by 82%
over the control. Potato is relatively a shallow rooted crop, it is a high input intensive crop
which requires an efficient crop management practice to ensure adequate nutrient uptake and
to attain optimum crop growth and yield (Sandhu et al., 2014). Potato is a short-cycle crop,
requiring sufficient macro- nutrients and micro-nutrients and irrigation at all stage of
development for optimum yield. Nitrogen plays an important role in the balance between
vegetative and reproductive growth of potato (Alva, 2004).

When nitrogen is applied in large amount, excess vegetative growth occurs, decreases the
quality and the plants fall over with the slightest wind. Crop maturity is delayed, and the plants
are more susceptible to disease and insect pests. On the other hand, shortage of nitrogen
restricts the growth of all plant organs such as roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits and finally
gives stunted plant architecture with yellow leaf appearance (Barker and Bryson, 2007).
Shortage of nitrogen also restricts tuber size due to reduced leaf area and early defoliation
(Goffart et al., 2008).

Moreover, application nitrogen fertilizer rates have been advised as optimal for potato
production. The recommended nitrogen fertilization rates vary from 70 to 330 kg ha-1, and the
most economically efficient rates from 147 to 201 kg N ha-1 (Fontes et al., 2010). Furthermore,
Zelalem et al. (2009); Israel et al. (2012) and Burtukan, (2016) recommended that application
of nitrogen fertilizer from 110 to 165 kg N ha-1 is required for optimum potato production to
obtain reasonable economic yield. Generally, potato is a crop that is highly responsive to
nitrogen fertilizer (Sincik et al., 2008).
2.3.2. Effect of phosphorous on yield and yield related traits of potato

Phosphorous is the other important nutrient in the fertilization of potato soil. Phosphorus plays
significant role in physiological and biochemical reactions such as photosynthesis, conversion
of sugar into starch (Taheri et al., 2011). Plants uptake phosphorous in the forms of H2PO4 -
and HPO42- (Tisdale et al., 1995). Plants provided with adequate amount of phosphorus had
been reported to form good root system, strong stem, mature early and give high yield.
Phosphorus deficiency leads to a general reduction in most metabolic processes, including cell
division, cell expansion, respiration and photosynthesis (Marschner, 1995).

Potato is highly responsive to soil applied nutrients, especially to phosphorus, due to its short
cycle and high yield potential (Fernandes and Soratto, 2012). The phosphorous requirement
for potato is frequently higher than the requirement for other field crops due to the high
nutrient demand of potato and its relatively shallow root system (Robert, 2006). Making
phosphorus available to plants is critical because the supply of phosphorus in most soils is low
and the phosphates in soils are not readily available for plant use. The total phosphorus in
average arable soli is approximately 0.05% by weight (400-2000 Kg ha-1), of which only an
infinitesimal part is available to the plant at any one time (Miller, 1995). Biochemically,
phosphorus deficiency causes changes in functions of the plant including accumulation of
sucrose and reducing sugars and sometimes of starch (Rending and Taylor, 1989).

Potato tuber yield increased with increasing P fertilizer (Jenkins and Ali, 1999). Sharma and
Arora (1987) observed the absence of strong association between tuber number and increased
application rates of applied phosphorous. Potato tuber yield is also known to be influenced by
phosphorous fertilizers through its effect on the number of tubers produced, the size of the
tubers and the time at which maximum yield is obtained (Sharma and Arora, 1987). Israel et
al. (2012) indicated that the highest total tuber yield (37. 6 t ha-1) was obtained at phosphorous
application of 60 kg ha-1, but the lowest yield (27.1 t ha-1) was obtained at no phosphorous
application. On other hand, Desalegn et al. (2016) indicated that the shortest plant height of
45.65 cm was recorded at 0 Kg ha-1 application of phosphorous and the longest height of 64.11
cm was recorded at 90 Kg P ha-1 rate application. Moreover, Zelalem et al. (2009); and Israel
et al. (2012) reported that application of phosphorous fertilizer from 46 to 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 is
required for optimum potato production to obtain reasonable economic yield.

2.3.3. Effect of sulphur on yield and yield related traits of potato

Sulphur is rated as fourth major nutrients after N, P and K and its importance is being
recognized in view of its role in improving crop quality and balance of anions in agricultural
crops including potato (Tandon, 1991). Sulfur plays an essential role in chlorophyll formation
and therefore helps to give plants their green color. Sulfur is known to take part in many
reactions in all living cells (Sharma, 2015).Thus, it is the key component of balanced nutrition
required for the production of potato where intensive cropping and use of high grade fertilizers
resulted in depletion of soil sulfur.Sulphur deficient plants had poor utilization of nitrogen,
phosphorus and potash and a significant reduction of catalyse activities at all age (Nasreen et
al., 2003).

Sulphur fertilization increased yield of potato tubers, improved tuber quality (increased
content of protein, starch, carotene, vitamin C, macro- and microelements) and resistance
against Streptomyces scabies and Rhizoctonia solani. In potato, sulphur is required in many
metabolic activities in the plant. Sulphur deficiency is similar to N in many ways. In case of N
deficiency, the yellowing of leaves starts from lower leaves while in case of S, it is upper
leaves which show chlorosis (Trehan et al., 2008). Symptoms of sulphur deficiency are
observed not only in the plant species with high sulphur requirements, but also in those which
require relatively less sulphur, including potato (Sharma et al., 2011). Its deficit decreases
crop yield and often leads to deterioration of the yield and quality, which is determined by the
content of minerals and their ratios (McGrath and Blake-Kalff, 2003).

Potato response to applied S depends upon the S status of the soils. There is a need to apply
sulphur along with its beneficial effects on yield and quality (Chettri et al., 2002). Singh et al.
(1995) reported that fertilization increases the sulphur content of dry matter in tubers and also
affects the increase in tubers, calcium, magnesium, sulphur, copper and iron. Sharma et al.
(2011) reported that there was increase in large size and medium size tuber yield in percent
with increase in sulphur level up to 45 kg ha-1, which showed reduction at further high level.
However, small size tuber yield recorded reverse trend and showed decrease in small size
tuber with increasing doses of sulphur up to 45 kg ha-1. Klikocka (2011) indicated that the
highest tuber yield was found when 25 kg ha-1 of sulphur was applied in sulphate form and 50
kg S ha-1 applied K2SO4 kind. On other side, Singh and Srivastava, (1995) reported that
sulphur fertilizer (20 kg S ha-1) increased stem and tuber, Fe contents and plant Fe uptake, but
tuber Fe concentration declined during growth from the dilution effect.

2.3.4. Effect of boron on yield and yield related traits of potato

Boron is an essential micronutrient for plants, and plant requirements for this nutrient are
lower than the requirements for all other nutrients except molybdenum and copper. Among
micronutrients, boron play several important physiological roles in plants such as, in cell
elongation, nucleic acid synthesis, hormone responses and membrane function (Jafar-Jood et
al., 2013). It is the only non-metal among the micronutrients and also the only micronutrient
present over a wide pH range as a neutral molecule rather than an ion (Epstein and Bloom,
2005). Bari et al. (2001) showed that application of 1.1 kg B ha-1 from borax increased potato
fresh haulm weight per hill, number of tubers per hill, and dry matter % of tubers and yield of
tuber ha-1. Similarly, Puzina (2004) reported that using boric acid in potato fertilization caused
an increased in tuber size and weight by increasing of cell diameter in the tuber perimedullary
zone.

Potatoes require widespread application of boron and other micronutrients on the low organic
matter content of soils and inefficient rooting system Tariq and Mott (2007). Furthermore,
Rashid et al. (2002) also reported the severity of boron deficiency with the advancement of
time and confirmed its necessity for plant fertilization. Hopkins et al. (2007) had studied the
role of boron on tuberization and yield in potato and reported a non-significant increase due to
soil or foliar application of boron. Boron does not have direct influence on yield or related
attributes; however it plays supplementary role when applied with sulphur (Bari et al., 2001).

2.4. Effects of NPSB Fertilizer on Potato Tuber Quality Parameter

2.4.1. Dry matter content

Dry matter content in potato tubers depends on the environmental condition and their changes.
However, the highest possible amount of dry matter is limited by genetic characteristics of the
potato variety (Tesfaye et al., 2012). Application of excess nitrogen fertilizer may influence
various growth and yield parameters of potato. According to Sebastiani et al. (2007) for
instance excessive nitrogen fertilization reduced starch, dry matter, and sugar contents in
potato tubers. Furthermore, excess nitrogen during production reduces the storability of potato
tubers. The fact that nitrogen promotes growth of potato vines and by the time of harvesting,
tubers may not have been able to mature completely and reach maximal dry matter content.
Similar results are reported by Zelalem et al. (2009) that increasing soil nitrogen content led to
decrease in dry matter content of potato tubers. Sebastiani et al. (2007) indicated that excess N
rates significantly reduced tuber dry matter content due to vigorous growth of the plants which
produced more above ground vegetative parts competing for photosynthesis necessary for
tuber development.

Kanzikwera et al. (2001) reported tuber dry matter decrease with increased N application.
This may be attributed to the fact that high rates of N stimulate top growth more than tuber
Growth there by delaying tuber formation and maturity. Balemi (2012) also reported that in a
controlled growth chamber on the effect of phosphorous supply on morphological and
physiological plant parameters of three potato genotypes grown under two phosphorous levels,
such as 100 mg P kg-1 soil (low phosphorous) and 700 mg P kg-1 of soil (high phosphorous)
obtained that low phosphorous supply reduced shoot dry matter yield, relative growth rate, and
leaf number, total leaf area per plant. Desta (2018) report that increasing application of
blended fertilizers of 100% NPSB to 200% NPSB with N adjustment increased underground
dry biomass yield linearly as compared to control treatment. Biruk (2018) also reported that
increasing the application of NPSB from 0 to 200 kg ha-1 increased the underground dry matter
yield from 212.3 to 241.8 g per hill.

2.4.2. Tuber specific gravity

Specific gravity is the measure of choice for estimating dry matter and starch content and
ultimately for determining the processing quality of potato varieties (Tesfaye et al., 2013).
Consequently, potato varieties with a dry matter content of 20% or higher, a starch content of
13% and above and/ or a specific gravity of 1.08 or higher are the most preferred for
processing products (Kirkman, 2007). Like any other quality attribute, genotype has a decisive
effect in determining the specific gravity of potato varieties (Rivero et al., 2009). Kabira and
Berga (2003) noted that potato tubers should have a specific gravity value of more than 1.080
and tubers with specific gravity value less than 1.070 are generally unacceptable for
processing.

Fertilizer application has important effects on the quality of potato (Westermann, 2005).
Excess usage of fertilizers reduces tuber quality. Kleinkopf et al. (1981) reported that the
specific gravity of tubers decreased with increasing rates of N fertilizer. This appears to be are
flections of the delay in maturity due to high nitrogen treatment. Sharma (2011) and Tesfaye,
et al. (2013) reported that significant increase of specific gravity of potato tubers with the
increased fertilizer rates. Contrary to this, Gautam et al. (2013) noted non-significant
difference in specific gravity of tubers due to N treatment. Similarly, Abo-Sedra and Shehata
(1994) reported that specific gravity of potato tubers is not affected by the application of
nitrogen at the rate of 180 kg N ha-1. On the other hand, Kara (2002) reported the positive
effects of nitrogen fertilization on specific gravity of potato tubers while phosphorus doses
have not affected this parameter. Melkamu et al. (2018) reported that the specific gravity of
potato was highly influenced by NPS fertilizer rates.

2.5. Effects of Spacing on Yield and Yield Related Traits of Potato

Plant density is very important aspect of potato production since it significantly affects
number of tubers per plant and per stem, mean tuber weight, tuber yield and size grading
(Haase et al., 2007). Too small seed tubers will have small number of stems, which will
produce only a few tubers, thereby reducing yield. On the other hand, too big seed tubers will
result in the production of too many stems and tubers, which will compete for growth factors
in the soil and become too small. Thus, such tubers will be unmarketable for use as either ware
or seed potato. Besides, too big tubers will be too bulky and uneconomical to use as seed or to
transport. Therefore, the best seed tubers are the ones that are medium-sized (39-75 g) Berga
et al. (1994).

Number of tubers set per potato plant largely governs the total tuber yield as well as the size
categories of potato tubers. Number of tubers set by plants was determined by stem density,
spatial arrangement, variety, season and crop management (Wurr et al., 2001). Increase in the
stem density over the economical range (which varies with the soil type, climate, management
etc.) resulted in a reduction in the number of tubers set per stem. Increasing the stem density
by planting larger seed tubers resulted in increased tuber number per hill despite the reduction
in the number of tubers per stem (Zamil et al., 2010). The number of tuber set by plants is also
affected by cultivar and the growing season. Sufficient number of strong stems should develop
per seed tuber. Investigations on stem density levels have also provided an insight in to yield
and quality of harvested tubers. A comprehensive understanding of this concept can be used to
manipulate the production of ware and seed potatoes (Admire et al., 2014).

The effect of population density especially in relation to tuber category has been reported in
several research reports. Bikila et al. (2014) reported that increasing the spacing between
plants and rows from 60x30cm to 85x40cm resulted to a 53% decrease in number of under
sized (<20 mm) potato tubers from 81.66% to 38.66%. Similarly, number of small sized tubers
s (20-30 mm) was also decreased from 86 to 26% as the spacing increased from 60x30 cm to
75x30 cm. While the medium sized tubers (30-40 mm) was considered, relatively higher
proportion (88.33%) was found at the narrower spacing of 65x20 cm and the lowest
proportion (36%) was obtained at a spacing combination of 70x30 cm.

High plant population to be associated with low dry matter content because of high
competition for light and other important resources and this then led to a few resources being
channelled to each sink. They also reported that the dry matter content rise to a peak at 30 cm
but then fell with a further increase in plant spacing. The low dry matter content at the widest
plant spacing was due to high photosynthetic rate thus a relatively high vegetative growth at
the expense of the tubers formation Tesfaye et al. (2013). Similarly, many other studies
showed increased dry matter with decreasing plant population (Vander Zaag et al., 1990;
Tamiru, 2004).

The most appropriate planting density of potato is that in which each unit area have the
greatest assimilation surface, at the same time the plants are under adequate lighting and the
leaves maintains vital functions as long as possible (Kotikiv, 2011). The wider planting
distance in rows resulted in highest and lowest tuber yield per plant and per hectare,
respectively (Gulluoglu and Arıoglu, 2009). Increase plant density lead to a decrease in the
average weight of the tuber and an increase the outcome of the amount and weight of the
tubers per unit area (Jamaati et al., 2010). Sokoto et al. (2007) reported yield increase with
every increment in plant population and were highest at closest intra-row spacing (20 cm).
They observed that significant effect of intra-row spacing in all parameters measured. Close
intra-row spacing (20 cm) produced tubers of comparatively lower weight, while wide intra-
row spacing (50 cm) resulted in significantly bigger tubers.

2.6. Effects of Irrigation on Yield and Yield Related Traits of Potato

Potato is relatively sensitive crop under conditions of limited water supply, it should be
preferably directed towards maximizing yield per ha rather than spreading the limited water
over the larger area. Savings in water can be made mainly through timing and depth of
irrigation application. Compared to many other crop plants, potatoes close their stomata at
relatively small soil moisture deficits thus; soil moisture stress influences various
physiological activities that affect the tuber yield and quality (Shock et al., 2007). Potatoes are
shallow rooted vegetables and more sensitive to soil moisture stress than other deeper rooted
crops. Thus sufficient amount of water is required to ensure high yield in potatoes. Moisture
stress, depending on the crop growth stage, can reduce potato tuber yields, produce misshapen
tubers, and/or adversely affect the processing quality of the tubers (Abubaker et al., 2014).

Potato yield is reduced both by over- and under-irrigation. The reduction in yield with high
water quantity is due to poor aeration in the soil. Wet soil is conducive to pathogens that may
cause tuber rotting and decay of seed tubers that cause an erratic emergence. Moreover,
excessive irrigation can also erode hills, thus exposing shallow tuber set to greening or
sunscald. Furthermore excessive moisture may cause infection of potato by early and late
blight pathogens (Rowe and Secor, 1993). On the other hand Water stress, even for a short
period, often has a severe impact on potato tuber yield and quality as it affects the nutrient use
efficiency the plants. Inadequate water availability results in loss of yield, grade, internal
quality, and inefficient use of other production inputs (Alva, 2008). Podstawka and Malicki
(1997) recorded that average tubers yield was 40.1 t ha-1 without irrigation and 47.4 t ha-1 with
irrigation.
 3. MATERIALS AND METHODS

3.1. Description of the Experimental Site

The experiment was conducted in Debre Libanos District, North Shoa Zone of Oromia
regional state during the 2018/19 off- season from October to March under irrigation. The site
is found 24 km away from Zonal town (Fiche) South-Eastern direction and 90 km away from
Addis Ababa in northern direction. It is located between 3800 40’ 0” E and 3900 0’ 0” E
longitude and 900 36’ 0’’N and 900 40’ 0’’N latitude with altitude ranging from 1500 to
2700m masl. Debra libanos District is characterized by medium rainfall with a mean annual
rainfall of 1000 mm that ranges from 800-1200 mm. With mean annual minimum and
maximum temperature of 15 and 23 °C, respectively, this is characterized by cool and wet
climate with a relatively medium level of precipitation. Debre Libanos District has two rainy
seasons; that is, a short rainy season from February to March, and a main rainy season that
extends from June to September (Anonymous, 2018). The schematic repersentaion in study
area found in the following figure (Figure 1)

Figure 1. Location map of study area

3.2. Experimental Materials

The potato variety named Belete, which was developed and released by Holeta Agricultural
Research Centre in 2009, was used for the experiment. The potato variety, Belete (CIP-
393371.8) was recommended for the areas of 1600 to 2800 masl and produced 47.2 and 33.8 t
ha-1 total tuber yield at research centres and on farms, respectively (MoA, 2012). Blended
fertilizers of NPSB which constitutes 18.9% N, 37.7% P2O5, 6.95% S and 0.1% B and Urea
(46% N) were used as sources of inorganic fertilizers.

3.3. Soil Sampling and Analysis

Soil samples were collected from 0-30 cm depth by using an auger from 15 spots of the
experimental field in a zig-zag pattern before planting. The samples were mixed thoroughly to
produce 1 kg of a representative soil sample. The soil sample was put in polythene bag and
submitted to the soil laboratories for the analysis. Soil samples were analysed for particle size
distribution (soil texture), soil pH, Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) (Cmol (+) kg -1), organic
carbon (%), available phosphorus [mg/kg (ppm)] and total nitrogen (%) at Oromia Water
Work Design and Enterprise soil laboratory service, while available sulphur [mg/kg (ppm)]
and available boron [mg/kg (ppm)] were analysed at Jije Laboglass Private Limited Company
in Addis Ababa.

The soil pH was determined in 1:2.5 soils to water ratio using a glass electrode attached to a
digital pH meter (Page, 1982). Soil textural class was determined by Bouyoucos hydrometer
method (Bouyoucos, 1962). Organic carbon of the soil was determined by the volumetric
method based on the oxidation of organic carbon with acid potassium di-chromate (K2Cr2O7)
medium using the Walkley and Black (1934) method. Total nitrogen was determined
according to Modified Kjeldahl method with sulphuric acid (Dewis and Freitas, 1984).
Available phosphorus (ppm) was determined by the Olsen’s method (Olsen et al., 1954).
Available sulphur (meq/l SO4-2) was determined by mono-calcium phosphate extraction
method (Hoeft et al., 1973) and available boron was determined using hot water method
(Havlin et al., 1999). Cation Exchangeable Capacity (CEC) was determined titrimetrically by
distillation of ammonia that was displaced by Na (Sahlemedhin and Taye, 2000).
3.4. Treatments and Experimental Design

The treatments were arranged as factorial combinations of five levels of blended NPSB
fertilizer (0, 150, 200, 250 and 300 kg ha-1) and three intra-row spacing (20, 30, 40cm) with
uniform inter-row spacing of 75cm.The 200 kg NPSB ha-1 was taken as a substitute of blanket
recommendation of 200 kg ha-1 DAP (92 kg P2O5 ha-1), two levels below and above the
substitute of blanket recommendation, respectively, were included in the treatments
combinations. The blanket recommendation of 165 kg ha-1 Urea fertilizer or 75.9 kg N ha-1
was applied in all treatments including the control. A total of 15 treatments were obtained as
factorial combinations of five levels of blended NPSB fertilizer (0, 150, 200, 250, and 300 kg
ha-1) and three intra-row spacing (20, 30, 40cm) were used as treatments.

The experiment was laid out as Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three
replications in which each treatment was allocated randomly in a plot in each replication. Each
plot had six rows spaced 75 cm with 18, 12 and 9 plants of each row at intra-row spacing of
20, 30 and 40 cm, respectively. Thus, each plot had a gross size of 4.5 m wide x 3.6 m long
(16.2 m2) and net plot size of 9.6, 9 and 8.4 m2 for spacing of 20 cm, 30cm and 40cm
respectively. The spacing between plots and adjacent blocks were 1 and 1.5 m, respectively.
Data were collected from plants in the four central rows left the two border rows and plants
grown at most end of each row in both sides.

3.5. Experimental Procedures and Field management

The experimental field was ploughed four times to fine tilth by using oxen from November to
December 2018 to a depth of 30 cm and levelling and ridging were done manually. A total of
45 experimental plots were laid out and the required numbers of ridges were marked and
ridges were made manually in each plot with the spacing of 75 cm between ridges.

Well sprouted medium sized potato tubers with approximate weight of 39 to 75 g and with
sprout length of 1.5 to 2.5 cm (Lung’aho et al., 2007) were planted on the ridges at the spacing
of 75 cm between ridges and 20, 30, 40 cm between tubers at the depth of about 5-10 cm and
covered with soil.
Application of blended NPSB fertilizers at the specified rates was done by banding the
granules of the fertilizers at the depth of 5-10cm below and 5 cm away from the seed tuber at
planting. All blended NPSB fertilizer was applied at planting, while urea fertilizer was applied
to all plots equally in three splits (¼ at planting, ½ after full emergence and ¼ at the initiation
of tubers or at the start of flowering) as per the recommendation. The experimental plots were
irrigated a day before planting and after planting. Then after the application of irrigation water
was done every seven days to field capacity in all the experimental plots by furrow irrigation
method. Weeds were controlled by hand hoeing. Earthling up was done as required to prevent
exposure of tubers to direct sunlight and for promoting tuber bulking and for ease in
harvesting.

The haulms were mowed two weeks before harvesting when the plants reached physiological
maturity, when yellowing or senescence was apparent on the lower leaves. The haulms were
mowed to thicken tuber periderm to avoid bruising and skinning during harvesting and post-
harvest handling. The plants growing in the two border rows as well as those growing at both
ends of each row were not harvested as experimental materials to avoid edge effects.

3.6. Data Collection and Measurements

3.6.1. Crop phenology

Days to 50% flowering: It was recorded as the number of days from planting to when 50% of
the plants in each plot produced flowers for each net plot by counting.

Days to 90% maturity: it was registered as the numbers of days from planting to 90% of the
plants in each net plot when indicated by the senescence observed apparent on the lower
leaves by visual observation.

3.6.2. Growth parameters

Plant height (cm): the height of 10 randomly taken plants from the central rows were
measured by tape meter at physiological maturity stage from ground surface to the tip of the
main stems and averaged to get the mean plant height.
Number of main stems per hill: the total number of stems that arise from the ground was
counted in 10 randomly taken plants from the net plot to get the mean number of stems per hill
at flowering stage.

3.6.3. Yield components and yield

Average tuber mass per hill (kg): it obtained by weighing the total mass of tubers from
randomly sampled five hills from the net plot and then divided by five.

Average tuber weight (g/tuber): it was determined by dividing the total fresh tuber yield of
randomly sampled five plants to the respective total tubers number.

Marketable tuber number (per hill): The number of tubers which are free from diseases,
insect pests, with the mean weights of greater and equal 25 g were determined by counting the
total tubers harvested from five hills in the net plot and were divided by five at harvest.

Unmarketable tuber number (per hill): The number of tubers which are unhealthy, injured
by insect/diseases, and less than 25 g in weight were determined by counting from plants the
net plot at harvest.

Marketable tuber yield (ton ha-1): The average mass of tubers which are free from diseases,
insect pests and with the mean weights of greater and equal 25 g were recorded from net plot
and converted to ton ha-1.

Unmarketable tuber yield (ton ha-1): The average mass of tubers which are unhealthy,
injured by insect pests/diseases and less than 25 g size category from net plots tubers were
recorded and converted to ton ha-1.

Total tuber yield (ton ha-1): The total tuber yield per hectare was recorded by adding up the
weights of marketable and unmarketable tubers.

Tuber size distribution in number: this refers to the proportional number of tubers size
categories. All tubers from five randomly taken plants were categorized into very small (<25
g), small (25-39 g), medium (40-75 g) and large (>75 g) according to Lung’aho et al. (2007).
The proportion of the number of each tuber category was expressed in percentage.

3.6.4 Tuber quality parameter

Tuber dry matter: to determine, tuber dry matter percent, five tubers representing all size
categories were chopped into small 1-2 cm3, mixed thoroughly and two sub-samples each
weighing 200 g was weighed. The exact weight of each sub sample was determined and
recorded as fresh weight. Each sub sample was placed in a paper bag and was oven dried at a
temperature of 80 °C for 72 hours.
The dry matter content was calculated using the formula described by CIP (2006):
Weight of sample after drying (g)
Dry matter (%) =  100
Initial weight of sample (g)

Specific gravity of tubers: A 5 kg tuber of all shapes and size categories were randomly
taken from each plot and washed with water. The tubers were then weighted first in air then in
water. The specific gravity was calculated using the formula described by KleinKopf et al.
(1987).
Weight in air
Specific gravity (%) =
weight in air - weght in water

3.7. Agronomic Efficiency

The NPSB fertilizer agronomic efficiency was calculated using the procedure described by
Craswell and Godwin (1984) as:
Kg Gf(kg)−Gu (kg)
AE ( ) = ,
kg Na (kg)

Where; AE- stands for agronomic efficiency, Gf and Gu- for grain yield in fertilized and
unfertilized plots, respectively, and Na- for quantity of NPSB fertilizer applied.

3.8. Data Analysis

The data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using GenStat release 18 th Edition
software (GenStat, 2015). Interpretations of the results were made following the procedure of
Gomez and Gomez (1984) and means of significant treatment effects were separated using the
Fishers’ protected Least Significant Difference (LSD) test at 5% probability level of
significance.

3.9. Partial Budget Analysis

The partial budget analysis were carried out to determine the economic benefit of fertilizer
rates application at different intra-row spacing using marketable tuber yield data (CIMMYT,
1988). All costs and benefits were calculated on hectare basis in Birr. The mean marketable
tuber yield of each treatment were adjusted to lower by 10%, the gross benefit (GFB) ha-1 were
calculated from the adjusted mean marketable tuber yield for each treatment and the field price
of inputs (the costs of blended NPSB fertilizer and seed tubers of potato variety Belete).

Gross average tuber yield (t ha-1) (AvY): is an average yield of each treatment.

Adjusted yield (AjY): is the average yield adjusted downward by a 10% to reflect the
difference between the experimental yield and yield of farmers.
AjY = AvY- (AvY-0.1)

Gross field benefit (GFB): is computed by multiplying field/farm gate price that farmers
receive for the crop when they sale it as adjusted yield.
GFB = AjY x field/farm gate price for the crop.

Total variable cost (TVC): total cost is the cost of NPSB fertilizer and seed tubers of variety
and application cost of NPSB fertilizers. The costs of other inputs and production practices
such as labor cost of land preparation, planting, and earthling up, weeding, irrigating and
harvesting were considered the same or are insignificant among treatments.

Net benefit (NB): - was calculated as the amount of money left when the total variable costs
(TVC) deducted from gross field benefit (GFB).
NB = GFB– TVC

Marginal rate of return (MRR %): was calculated by dividing change in net benefit by
change in total variable cost.
 Change of Net Benefit (NB)
MRR (%) =  100
Change of Total Varaible Cost (TVC)
Finally, among the non-dominated treatments, the treatment which gives the highest net return
and a marginal rate of return greater than the minimum considered acceptable to farmers
(100%) were considered for recommendation.
 4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1. Pre-Planting Physicochemical Properties of the Soil

The soil sample analysis of the experimental site showed that the soil content of clay, silt and
sand is 36%, 40% and 24%, respectively (Table 1). According to Bouyoucos (1962)
classification, the texture of the soil is clay loam. The soil texture controls water contents,
water intake rates, aeration, root penetration and soil fertility. The pH of the soil was 6 which
are moderately acidic. According to the rating of EthioSIS (2014) Soil pH strongly acidic
<5.5, moderately acidic 5.6-6.5, Neutral 6.6-7.3, moderately alkaline 7.3-8.4 and strongly
alkaline >8.4. Potato requires a well-drained, aerated and porous sandy loam or loamy sand
soils with the pH range for potato production of from 4.5-7.5 (MoA, 2011).

The CEC of the experimental site was 59.7 cmol (+)/kg soils. According to Landon (1991),
top soils having CEC greater than 40 cmol (+)/kg are rated as very high and 25 - 40 cmol
(+)/kg as high. Those top soils with 15 - 25, 5 - 15 and < 5 cmol (+)/kg of soil are classified as
medium, low, and very low, respectively, in CEC. According to this classification, the soils of
the study area have very high CEC, soil which is indicated a good agricultural soil. The
organic carbon content (OC) of the experimental field was 2.27% which is medium.
According Tekalign (1991) total OC (%) of Very Low <0.5, Low 0.5-1.5, Optimum, 1.5-3.0
and High >3.0. this indicated the medium potential of the soil to supply nitrogen to plants
through mineralization of organic carbon. The total nitrogen experimental field was 0.18%.
EthioSIS (2014) classified soil N availability of <0.1 % as very low, 0.1-0.15 % as low, 0.15-
0.3 % as moderate, > 0.3-0.5 % as high and >0.5 as very high. Therefore, according to
EthioSIS (2014) the site has moderate nitrogen.

Moreover, According to the rating of EthioSIS (2014) soil P availability of 0-15 (mg/kg) very
low, 15-30 (mg/kg) low, 30-80 (mg/kg) medium, 80-150 (mg/kg) high and 150 (mg/kg) very
high .Therefore, the experimental soil has P content of 7.42 (mg/kg) which is very low. Potato
needs a good supply of readily available phosphorus, since the root system is not extensive
and does not readily utilize less available P forms. Because of low efficiency of uptake by
potato, phosphorus fertilizer application needs to be considerably higher than the 30 - 80 kg
ha-1of P2O5 taken up by the crop (MoA, 2011). The analysis for available sulphur indicated
that the experimental soil had value of 20.04 ppm, which is rated as optimum. According to
the rating of EthioSIS (2014) soil available sulphur is Low 10–20, optimum 20–80, High 80–
100, and Very high > 100. The analysis for available boron indicated that the experimental soil
had value of 0.86 ppm, which is rated as optimum. According to the rating of Horneck (2011)
soil available Boron, very Low <0.2, low 0.2-0.5, medeiam 0.5-1, high 1.2, >2 excessive
.Thus, according to the soil laboratory results, soil of the study area is suitable for the
production of potatoes and other crops, but may not be sufficient for optimum production of
potato, as potato demands high level of soil nutrients due to relatively poor developed and
shallow root system in relation to yield (Nigussie, 2001) and due to fast rapid early growth and
tuber formation (Ghannad et al., 2014).

Table 1. Physical and chemical properties of soil of the study area before planting

Soil properties Values Ratings References

A. Physical properties
Clay (%) 36
Silt (%) 40
Sand (%) 24
Textural class Clay loam Bouyoucos (1962)
B. Chemical Properties
pH (1:2.5 H2O) 6.0 Moderately acidic EthioSIS (2014)
CEC cmol (+)/kg 59.7 Very High London (1991)
Organic carbon (%) 2.27 Medium Tekalign (1991)
Total nitrogen (%) 0.18 Medium EthioSIS (2014)
Available P (mg/kg) 7.42 Very low EthioSIS (2014)
Available sulphur (ppm) 20.04 Medium EthioSIS (2014)
Available boron (ppm) 0.86 Medium Hornic (2011)

4.2. Phenology and Growth of Potato

4.2.1. Phenology of potato

The analysis of variance indicated that the main effect of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and
intra-row spacing had highly significant (p<0.01) effect on days to 50% flowering and days to
90% maturity. However, NPSB fertilizer and intra-row spacing did not interact significantly to
influence days to 50% flowering and days to 90% maturity (Appendix Table 1).
The plants which received 300 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer rates followed by 250 kg ha-1 NPSB
fertilizer rates had delayed days to 50% flowering and 90% maturity without significant
difference between the two fertilizer rates effects. Delayed days to 50% flowering and 90 %
maturity in plants was increased with increased blended NPSB fertilizer rates. Application of
300 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer delayed days to 50% flowers and 90 % maturity of plants by 6 and
7 days respectively, as compared to plants grown without fertilizer (Table 2). The increment in
days to 50% flower initiation and 90% of physiological maturity, with the increasing
application of blended fertilizer might be attributed to the positive effect of nitrogen that
stimulated growth and prolonged vegetative phase thus, delaying the reproductive phase of
plants (Khan et al., 2009). This is due to the fact that increased level of nitrogen increased the
leaf area which in turn increased the amount of solar radiation intercepted and consequently,
increases vegetative growth phase which increases days to physiological maturity. Therefore,
a crop with more nitrogen will mature later in the season than a crop with less nitrogen,
because later growth is related to excessive haulm development whereas early tuber growth to
less abundant haulm growth (Mulubrhan, 2004; Israel et al., 2012).

In agreement with this results Israel et al.(2012) reported that application of high rates of
nitrogen (165 kg ha-1) delayed flowering (7 days) and maturity (13 days) in potato and
increased phosphorus application (0-60 kg ha-1) prolonged the days to 50% flowering in potato
by 3 days. Similarly, Bruk (2018) also reported that increasing NPSB application from 0 to
200 kg ha-1 prolonged the days to 50% flowering and 90% maturity of plants by two and three
days respectively compared to the control (without fertilizers).

Plants spaced at 40 cm intra-row spacing delayed days to 50% flowering (59.67 days) and
90% maturity (113.3 days) while plants at 20 cm intra-row spacing showed early flowering
(55.87 days) and Plants spaced 20 cm and 30 cm showed early maturity (109.9 and 110.9
days) respectively with no significant difference between the two spacing. Growing of plants
at widest spacing (40 cm) only delayed flowering and maturity by about four days as
compared to the plants grown at narrowest (20 cm) intra-row spacing (Table 2). this early days
to 50% flowering and 90 % maturity at closer intra-row spacing might be attributed to the
presence of intense inter plant competition at the closer intra-row spacing that leads to
depletion of available nutrient and as a result plants stressed and tends to flower and mature
earlier.

In the agreement with the result of this study, Harnet (2011) concluded that closer intra-row
spacing (20 cm) shortened days to maturity of potato plants by two days and days to 50%
flowering by three days as compared to the wider intra row spacing of (35 cm). Similarly,
Tasfaye et al. (2012) reported that Days to 50% flowering and 90 % maturity was delayed by
about 3 days and 6.42 days respectively in the wider intra row spacing 40 cm as compared to
the closest intra row spacing of 10 cm.

Table 2. Main effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing on phenology of
Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos District during 2019 off-season under irrigation.

Treatment Crop phenology

Blended NPSB fertilizer rates (kg ha-1) Days to 50% flowering Days to 90% maturity
0 54.00d 107.3c
150 56.78c 111.3b
200 57.78bc 111.6b
ab
250 59.56 112.2ab
300 60.89a 114.3a
LSD (5%) 1.80 2.43
Intra-row spacing (cm)
20 55.87c 109.9b
b
30 57.87 110.9b
a
40 59.67 113.3a
LSD (5%) 1.40 1.88
CV (%) 3.2 2.3
Means within columns for each trait followed by the same letter(s) had non-significant
difference at 5% significance level. LSD (5%) = Least significant difference at 5% level of
significance; CV (%) = Coefficient of variation.

4.2.2. Growth of potato

The two main factors, NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing had highly significant (p<
0.01) effects on height of potato plants. However, the two factors did not interact significantly
to influence the height of potato plants. On the other hand, the number of main stems per plant
was not significantly affected by main effect and the interaction effect of the of blended NPSB
fertilizer rates and Intra-row spacing (Appendix Table 1).
4.2.2.1. Plant height

The tallest plants (67.13 cm) were observed in plots that received 300 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer
which was statically at par with 250 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer, while the shortest plants (54.21
cm) were observed in control plots (plants grown without fertilizer). The height of plants
increased as the rates of NPSB fertilizer increased and the highest difference of 12.92 cm was
observed between the plants grown with the highest rates of NPSB fertilizer (300 kg ha-1) and
without fertilizer application (Table 3). The increased plant height in response to the
application of the fertilizer rates may be attributed to the influence of the nutrients contained
on enhancing plant growth owing to their contribution to enhanced cell division, stem
elongation, promotes leaf expansion and vegetative growth of plants (Tisdale et al., 1995). In
agreement with this result, Minwyelet et al. (2017) reported that the tallest potato plants were
observed in response to increasing the rates of NPS application from 272 and 281.75 kg ha-1.
Similarly Firew et al. (2016) also reported that increasing nitrogen and phosphorus rates from
0 to 168 kg and 138 kg respectively increased the height of potato plants from 34 cm to 113.33
cm.

The present result also show that Plants at wider intra-row spacing of 40 cm had highest plant
height (63.25 cm) which was statically the same with 30 cm intra row spacing, while shortest
plants (59.35 cm) were observed in plots where plants grown at closer intra-row spacing of 20
cm (Table 3). The plants at wider spacing of 40 and 30 cm were taller by 3.9 and 2.05 cm,
respectively, than plants grown at closer intra-row spacing of 20 cm. The increased plant
height at wider spacing might be due to availability of more growth resources under wider
spacing for better plant growth per hill than the closer spacing. Thus, plants that were grown at
wider spacing may have obtained sufficient nutrients, moisture and light due to less stiff
competition, which may have favored more vegetative growth compared to plants that were
spaced narrowly. In agreement with this result, Bikila et al. (2014) indicated that the tallest
plants were obtained at wider plant spacing possibly due to better availability of nutrients,
water and sun light since plants in wider spacing are subjected to les stiff completion.
Similarly, Zamil, et al. (2010) also reported that the widest spacing gave the tallest plant
which was significantly different from the closest spacing.
4.2.2.2. Number of main stems per hill

The non-significant effect of the two factors and the interaction of the two on number of main
stems per plant may show that number of main stems of potato is not influenced by the NPSB
fertilizer and intra-row spacing. This non-significant effect is due stem number is basically
determined by the number of eyes present on the tubers and the physiological age of the tuber
during the storage period rather than by manipulating the supply of plant nutrients (Lung’aho
et al., 2007). In agreement with this result, other workers also reported that the application of
mineral fertilizers like nitrogen and phosphorus did not significantly affect the number of main
stems of potato (Zelalem et al., 2009; Israel et al., 2012). In line with present study, Kifle et
al. (2017) also reported that Number of main stem or branch per plant was not influenced by
plant spacing. In contrast with this result Minwyelet et al. (2017) reported that increasing
application of NPS fertilizer rates from 0 to 272 kg NPS ha-1 was increased the main stem
number of potato from 5.47 to 9.8 hill-1. This might be due to the NPSB fertilizers facilitated
the production of main stem number and secondary branches which may contribute the
production of higher tuber yield.

Table 3. Main effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra row spacing on plant height of
Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos distrect during 2019 off-season under irrigation

Treatment Plant height (cm)

Blended NPSB fertilizer rates (kg ha-1)
0 54.21d
150 58.91c
200 61.54b
250 64.88a
300 67.13a
LSD (5%) 2.44
Intra-row spacing (cm)
20 59.35b
30 61.40a
40 63.25a
LSD (5%) 1.89
CV % 4.1
Means within columns for each trait followed by the same letter(s) had non-significant
difference at 5% significance level. LSD (5%) = Least significant difference at 5% level of
significance; CV (%) = Coefficient of variation
4.3. Yield Components of Potato

4.3.1 Average tuber mass and tuber weight

The analysis of variance showed that the main effect of blended NPSB fertilizer and intra-row
spacing were highly significant (p<0.01) and the interaction of the two factors significantly
(p<0.05) influenced average tuber mass (kg hill-1) and average tuber weight (g/tuber)
(Appendix Table 1).

The highest tubers mass (0.97 kg hill-1) was obtained from the combination of 250 kg ha-1
NPSB fertilizer with 30 cm intra-row spacing, which was statistically at par with 40 cm intra
row spacing from the rate of 250 and 300 kg NPSB ha-1 and also statistically same with the
same (30 cm) intra row spacing from the rate of 300 kg NPSB ha-1. Whereas the lowest tuber
mass (0.36 kg hill-1) was obtained from plants grown without application of fertilizer and
plants spaced at 20 cm intra row spacing which statistically at par with 30 cm intra row
spacing at the same rate of 0 kg NPSB ha-1.

On the other hand, the highest average weight (86.27 g/tuber) was produced at the
combination of 250 kg NPSB ha-1 fertilizer and 40 cm intra-row spacing, which is statistically
at par with the same (40 cm) intra row spacing at the rate of 300 kg NPSB ha-1 and also there
is no significant difference between the 30cm intra row spacing at the same rates (250 kg
NPSB ha-1) of fertilizers, while it produced tubers with lowest average weight (36.81 g/tuber )
from the treatments combination of 0 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer and 20 cm intra-row spacing
which statistically the same with 30cm intra row spacing at the same rate 0kg NPSB ha-1
(Table 4).

The variety Belete when received treatment combination of 250 kg ha-1NPSB and 30 cm intra-
row spacing had average tuber mass higher by about 169.44, 115.56 and 63.79% than plots
received treatment combination of 0 kg NPSB ha-1 and 20, 30 & 40 cm intra-row spacing,
respectively. The same treatment combination (250 kg ha-1 NPSB and 30 cm) had average
tuber mass higher by about 2.11 and 44.78% than treatment combination of 250 kg ha-1 NPSB
with 20 and 40 cm intra-row spacing, respectively. The treatment combination of 250 kg ha-1
NPSB and 40 cm intra-row spacing increased average tuber weight by about 134.37, 84..26
and 45.53% than treatment combination of 0 kg NPSB ha-1 and 20, 30 & 40 cm intra-row
spacing, respectively.

This indicated that application of a combination of plants wider spacing and higher rates of
NPSB fertilizer was an important factor to produce highest tuber weight (g/tuber) and tubers
mass per hill. The increment of average tuber mass and tuber weight with the supply of
fertilizer nutrients may be due to more growth, more foliage and leaf area which in turn
increases the amount of solar radiation intercepted, dry matter produced and higher supply of
photo assimilates which helped in producing larger size tubers and increase in plant density
probably causes the increase in computation between and within plants and hence, leads to
decrease in availability of nutrients to each plant and consequently, results in decline of mean
tuber weight and tuber mass. (Patricia and Bansal, (1999); Zabihi et al. (2010).

In agreement with this result, Biruk (2015) recorded the highest tubers mass (0.71 kg hill-1) in
response to the application of 120 kg N and 92 kg P2O5 ha-1; whereas the lowest tuber mass
(0.24 kg hill-1) was obtained without application of fertilizer. Similarly, Mulenh (2018) also
reported that increasing the rate blended NPSB fertilizer significantly increased average tuber
mass hill-1 of potato. In line with this result, Girma et al. (2017) reported that the highest tuber
weight was recorded from 115 kg/ha in the form of P2O5 and wider plant spacing (85 x 30 cm).
Similarly, Fayera (2015) also reported that average tuber weight is decreased due to increased
inter-plant competition with closer intra row spacing and low nitrogen application. he also
showed that the highest Average tuber weight (3.4 kg/plot) was recorded from combination of
150 kg nitrogen and 40 cm intra row spacing while the lowest (1.25 kg/plot) tuber weight were
recorded from 20 cm intra row spacing without fertilizer.
Table 4. Interaction effect of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing on average
tuber mass and tuber weight of Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos District during 2019 off-
season under irrigation

Blended NPSB Average tuber mass (kg hill-1) Average tuber weight (g/tuber)
fertilizer Intra-row spacing (cm) Intra-row spacing (cm)
(kg ha-1) 20 30 40 20 30 40
0 0.36h 0.45gh 0.58ef 36.81h 46.82gh 59.28ef
fg cd cd fg ef
150 0.52 0.72 0.75 54.99 58.83 61.45ef
200 0.60ef 0.79c 0.81bc 67.21cde 66.67de 69.13cde
de a a de abc
250 0.67 0.97 0.95 67.47 77.86 86.27a
ef ab ab fg bcd
300 0.58 0.90 0.90 53.99 73.56 80.34a
LSD (5%) 0.09 10.35
CV (%) 7.9 9.6
Means in rows and columns for each trait with the same letter(s) are not significantly different
at 5% probability level. LSD (5%) = Least significant difference at p= 0.05; and CV (%) =
Coefficient of variation in percent.

4.3.2. Marketable and unmarketable tuber number

The analysis of variance revealed that the main effect of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and
intra-row spacing were highly significant (p<0.01) on marketable and unmarketable tubers
number per hill while the interaction effect was not significant (Appendix Table 1).

The highest marketable tuber number (9.71 hill-1) were recorded from the application of 250
kg NPSB ha-1 fertilizer which is statically par with 300kg NPSB ha-1 and lowest marketable
tubers number (5.92hill-1) were recorded from the control (without fertilizer) treatment.
whereas, highest unmarketable tubers number (3.86 hiil-1) were recorded from control
treatment and lowest unmarketable tuber number (1.49 hill-1) were recorded from application
of 250 kg NPSB ha-1 which was statically at par with 300kg NPSB ha-1 (Table 5). Increase in
the number of marketable tubers with increased rate of NPSB fertilizer might be due to
application of boron and sulphur in soil increase the uptake of N and P which improves the N:
S and IAA: ABA and cytokinin: ABA ratio, which induces the formation and growth of stolen
mainly due to increase in gibberellin content of plant (Mohammad et al., 2017). This may be
due to the phenomenon that NPSB also increases aboveground biomass but not as much as
nitrogen. This was important for photosynthesis and net assimilation processes and no re-
absorption evidently took place from the tubers, leading to increased tuber size and weight so
that more tubers could be marketable (Boral and Milthorpe, 1962).
In line with this results, Burtukan (2016) reported that increasing rates of both N and P from
zero to the maximum increased marketable tuber number per hill by 94.6% over the control
and the highest unmarketable tuber number (8.63) per hill was obtained from the control plot
and the lowest unmarketable tuber number (3.9) was recorded for 110 kg N with 45 kg P ha-1.
Similarly, Bruk (2018) also reported that increasing the rate of NPSB application from 0 to
200 kg ha-1 linearly and significantly increased marketable tuber number from 13.47 to 22.68
but unmarketable tubers number per hill was decreased from 5.475 to 4.083.

The plants at 30 cm intra-row spacing had also the highest numbers of marketable tubers (9.29
hill-1) which was statically at par with 40 cm intra row spacing whereas lowest numbers of
marketable tubers (6.88 hill-1) was recorded at the spacing of 20 cm. The highest numbers of
unmarketable tubers number (2.95 hill-1) was recorded at the spacing of 20 cm and the lowest
numbers of unmarketable tubers number was recorded at the spacing of 40 cm (2.35 hill-1)
which is statically the same with 40cm intra row spacing (Table 5). The highest number of
unmarketable tubers at the narrowest spacing could be attributed to stiffer competitions for
growth factors which might have led to the production of undersized tubers, which are
unmarketable.

In agreement with this result, Masarirambi et al. (2012) reported that the highest plant density
having a lower number of marketable tubers per plant and the highest number of tubers was
found at wider plant space. Similarly, Zamil et al. (2010) also reported the widest spacing
gave the high tuber number of marketable tuber per hill which was significantly different from
the closest spacing. In agreement with this result this result, Tesfa (2012) also reported that
narrow plant spacing resulted in the production of large number of under sized unmarketable
tubers as compared to the wider plant spacing.
Table 5. Main effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing on number of
marketable and unmarketable tubers of Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos District during 2019
off-season under irrigation

Blended NPSB fertilizer Marketable tuber Unmarketable tuber

rates (kg ha-1) number (hill-1) number (hill-1)
0 5.92c 3.86a
150 7.97b 3.40b
b
200 8.44 2.4c
250 9.71a 1.49d
a
300 9.68 1.76d
LSD (5%) 0.70 0.4
Intra row spacing (cm)
20 6.88b 2.95a
a
30 9.29 2.44b
a
40 8.87 2.35b
LSD (5%) 0.54 0.31
CV (%) 8.6 16.1
Means in columns for each trait with the same letter(s) had non-significant difference at 5%
significance level. LSD (5%) = Least significant difference; CV (%) = Coefficient of
variation.

4.3.3. Tubers size distribution

The analysis of variance revealed that main effect of proportion of tubers with four sizes of
tubers (very small, small, medium and large size tubers) were significantly (p<0.01)
influenced by blended NPSB fertilizer and intra-row spacing except intra-row spacing of plant
did not significantly affect the medium size tuber (%). The interaction of blended NPSB
fertilizer and intra-row spacing had non-significant effect on all sizes of tubers (Appendix
Table 1).

4.3.3.1. Small and very small tuber size

The increased NPSB fertilizer rate from 0 to 250 kg ha-1 decreased the proportion of small and
very small sized tubers produced in the range between 19.96 to 7.86 % and 15.09 to 5.07%
respectively. The highest proportion of small size tubers (19.96%) and very small size tubers
(15.09%) were produced from control treatment and the lowest proportions of small size
tubers (7.86%) and very small size tubers (5.07%) were produced from application of 250 kg
NPSB ha-1 which was statically at par with 200 kg NPSB ha-1 and 300 kg NPSB ha-1.
Likewise, the highest proportion of small (15.42%) and very small-sized tubers (9.9%) were
produced from plants grown at 20 cm intra row spacing and the lowest proportions of small
(10.47%) and very small sized tubers (6.83%) were produced from plots plants grown at 40
cm which is statically par with 30cm intra row spacing (Table 6). The present result showed
that increasing the rate of NPSB fertilizer application decreases the proportion of very small
and small-size tubers. This could be due to the interaction of nutrients in blended fertilizer and
high number of plants produced per unit area at closer plant spacing that results strong
competition between plants for nutrients and growth factors and leads to the production of
high yield of small tuber size (Marschner, 1995; Tesfaye et al. 2013).

The present result also agrees with that of Nebiya (2017) who reported that increased P
application from 0 to 138 P2O5 kg ha-1 decreased the very small sized tuber % of potato from 6
to 2.27%. Similarly Biruk (2018) also reported that increased NPSB fertilizer rate application
from 0 to 200 kg ha-1 decreased the small sized tuber % of potato from 39.73 to 30.27 %. In
agreement with the present result Birhanu et al. (2014) also reported that increasing plant
density significantly increased the percentage of very small-sized tubers. The result of the
present result agreed with the findings of Ojala et al, (1990) who reported that to produce
smaller tubers, higher plant densities are needed than for the production of big tubers due to
increased interplant competition in closer spacing.

4.3.3.2. Large and medium tuber size

The highest proportion of large size tubers (46.75%) were produced from the application of
300 kg NPSB ha-1 which is statically par with 250 kg NPSB ha-1 and the lowest proportions of
large-sized tubers (30.62%) were produced from control (without fertilizers) treatment.
likewise the highest proportion of medium size tubers (40.93%) were produced from the
application of 250 kg NPSB ha-1 which is statically par with 150,200,300 kg NPSB ha-1
fertilizers rate and the lowest proportions of medium size tubers (34.33%) were produced
from control (without fertilizers) treatment (Table 6). This is might be due to the availability of
macro and micro nutrient and temperature during tuber formation and also may be due to less
competition between plants for nutrients and growth factors. The maximum proportion of
large size tubers (44.24%) were produced from plants grown in 40cm intra row spacing and
the lowest proportions of large-sized tubers (37.22%) were produced from plants grown at 20
cm (Table 6). The increased proportion of large-sized tubers at wider intra-row spacing might
be due to wider plant spacing had slight competition between plants for nutrients and growth
factors than closer plant spacing which lead to produce high yield of large tuber and medium
tuber sizes.
This result is in agreement with Desta (2018) who reported that the proportion of large size
tuber was increased with the increasing application of blended fertilizers 100 kg NPSB per ha-
1
) and 200 kg ha-1 NPSB with adjusted N increased yield of large size tuber by 138 and 148%,
respectively, as compared to the control. This result is in line with the results reported by
Khalafala (2001) that produce large size tubers increased with spacing increase but closer
spacing produced more small size tubers. Similarly Lung’aho et al. (2007) also described that
narrower spacing resulted in the production of many stems with in many small-sized tubers
whereas wider spacing results in the production of a fewer stems per unit area resulting in the
production of fewer large-sized tubers. In contrast with this result, Zebenay et al. (2015)
reported that plant spacing had significantly influenced yield of medium tuber size.

Table 6. Main effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing on tuber size
categories of Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos District during 2019 off-season under irrigation

Treatment Tuber size categories

Blended NPSB fertilizer (kg ha-1) VSST% SST% MST% LST%
0 15.09a 19.96a 34.33b 30.62d
150 8.44b 13.72b 39.16a 38.68c
c
200 6.12 11.01bc 40.51a 42.36b
250 5.07c 7.86c 40.93a 46.14a
c
300 5.8 8.22c 39.23a 46.75a
LSD (5%) 2.06 3.41 1.77 3.43
Intra row spacing (cm)
20 9.90a 15.42a 37.46 37.22c
30 7.57b 10.58b 40.71 41.14b
40 6.83b 10.47b 38.46 44.24a
LSD (5%) 1.59 2.64 NS 2.86
CV (%) 26.3 29.1 9.7 8.7
Means in columns followed by the same letter(s) are not significantly different at 5% P level. LSD
(5%) = Least significant difference at P= 0.05 and CV (%) = Coefficient of variation in percent, LST=
Large size tuber, MST= Medium size tuber, SST= Small size tuber, VSST=Very Small size tuber, NS=
Non-Significant.
4.4. Tuber Yields of Potato
4.4.1 Marketable and unmarketable tuber yields

The analysis of variance revealed that, the main effects of blended NPSB fertilizer, intra-row
spacing highly significant (p<0.01) and the interaction of the two factors had significant
(p<0.05) effect on marketable and unmarketable tuber yields (Appendix Table1).

The higher marketable tuber yield of 42.19 and 41.47 t ha-1 obtained from plant spaced at 40
and 30 cm, respectively, with 250 kg ha-1NPSB fertilizer, however, had non-significant
difference with 38.93 t ha-1 obtained by the application of treatment combination of 30 cm
intra-row spacing and 300 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer. Whereas the highest unmarketable tuber
yield (4.17 t ha-1) was obtained from plants spaced at 20 cm intra-row spacing without NPSB
fertilizer application. In contrast, the lower marketable tuber yield of 16.5 and 16.7 t ha-1
obtained from plants spaced at 40 and 30 cm, respectively, without fertilizer application, while
the lower unmarketable tuber yield in the range between 1.03 and 1.17 t ha-1 obtained from
treatment combinations of 250 and 300 kg ha-1 with 30 and 40 cm, respectively (Table 7).

Increasing blended NPSB fertilizer rate from 0 to 250 kg ha-1 increased marketable tuber yield
to 21.55, 25.49 and 14.28 t ha-1 for intra row-spacing of 20, 30, and 40 cm, respectively .The
higher marketable tuber yield obtained from higher rates of fertilizer and wider spacing might
be due to the positive interaction and complementary effect the four nutrients (nitrogen,
phosphorus, sulphur and boron) and the lower competition between plants for growth,
photosynthesis and assimilation of carbohydrates to tubers at wider spacing. Decreasing
blended NPSB fertilizer rate from 250 to 0 kg ha-1 increase unmarketable tuber yield (Table 7).
The highest unmarketable tuber yield could be due to control treatments and narrower intra-
row spacing which resulted in significantly higher yield of small tubers sizes as the
consequence of higher competition for nutrients between plants.

This result agrees with the results reported by Girma et al, (2017) who reported that the
highest marketable tuber yield were obtained from application highest fertilizer rate (115 kg
ha-1 P2O5) and wider plan spacing (85cm) and the highest unmarketable tuber yield were
obtained from application 0 kgha-1 P2O5 and 65 cm plat spacing. Similarly Fayera et al (2015
) also reported that the highest marketable tuber yield (3.73 kg/plot) and the lowest
unmarketable tuber yield (0.97 kg/plot) were obtained from combination of 150 kgha-1 N and
30 cm intra row spacing however the lowest marketable tuber yield was obtained from
combination of 10cm intra row spacing and without fertilizer. In agreement with the present
result Frezgi (2007) reported that plants at closest spacing produced significantly higher yield
of small tubers as the consequence of higher competition between plants that reduced the
marketable tubers yield and increased marketable tubers yield.

Table 7. Interaction effect of blended NPSB fertilizer and intra-row spacing on tuber yields of
Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos during 2019 off-season under irrigation

Blended Marketable tuber Unmarketable tuber Total tuber

NPSB yield (t ha-1) yield (t ha-1) yield (t ha-1)
fertilizer
(kg ha-1)
Intra-row spacing (cm) Intra-row spacing Intra-row spacing (cm)
(cm)
20 30 40 20 30 40 20 30 40
0 19.88hi 16.70i 16.50i 4.17 a
3.33 b
2.93b 24.04gh 20.03hi 19.43i
150 31.79de 30.34de 23.13gh 3.10b 1.87c 1.77c 34.89cd 32.21de 24.90g
200 36.54bc 33.30cd 25.33fg 3.17b 1.77c 1.67c 39.71b 35.07cd 27.00fg
250 41.47a 42.19a 30.78de 3.13b 1.13d 1.03d 44.60a 43.32ab 31.81de
300 36.76bc 38.93ab 28.72ef 2.13c 1.14d 1.17d 38.89bc 40.06b 29.89ef
LSD(5%) 4.54 0.50 4.53
CV (%) 9.0 13.3 8.4
Means in table for each yield parameter followed by the same letter(s) are significantly not
different at 5% probability level. LSD (5%) = Least significant difference at P= 0.05; and CV
(%) = Coefficient of variation in percent.

4.4.2. Total tuber yield

The main effects of blended NPSB fertilizer, intra-row spacing highly significant (p<0.01) and
the interaction of blended NPSB fertilizer and intra-row spacing had significant (p<0.05)
effect on total tuber yield (Appendix Table 1).

The highest total tuber yield (44.6 t ha-1) was obtained from plants spaced at 20 cm intra-row
spacing followed by plants at 30 cm intra-row spacing (43.32 t ha-1) and received of 250 kg ha-
1
NPSB fertilizer. The lowest total tuber yield (19.03 t ha-1) was registered from plants at 40
cm intra-row spacing followed by plants spaced at 30 cm intra-row spacing (20.03 t ha-1) and
without fertilizer application. Increasing blended NPSB fertilizer rate from 0 to 250 kg ha-1
increased total tuber yield by about 20.56, 23.32, and 22.38 t ha-1 for intra row spacing of 20,
30, and 40cm, respectively (Table 7). The higher total yield obtained at narrower intra-row
spacing (20cm) and 250 kg ha-1 blended NPSB fertilizer might be due to the synergetic effect
of higher plant populations that supplied with sufficient amount of nutrients from the applied
fertilizer.

In agreement with the present result, Minwyelet et al. (2017) also reported that the application
of NPS fertilizer at the rate of 272 kg ha-1 produced the highest total tuber yield (47.53 t ha-1),
while potato plants without NPS fertilizer produced the lowest total tuber yield (17.32t ha-1).
The present result also agreed with that of results reported by Zabihi et al. (2011) that
increasing planting density of potato resulted in higher tuber yields due to more tubers being
harvested per unit area of land. Similarly, Fayera et al. (2017) also reported that the highest
total yield of tubers (10377.78 kg/ha) obtained from application of high nitrogen rate (150
kgN ha-1) and at the closest spacing 10 cm intra row spacing. Similarly Hokmalipour et al.
(2009) reported that the maximum potato total tuber was obtained from the combination of
high fertilizer rate and high planting density.

4.5. Dry Matter and Specific Gravity of Tubers

The results from analysis of variance revealed the main effect of intra-row spacing significant
(P<0.05) effect on tuber dry matter content and specific gravity of tubers. However, main
effect of blended NPSB fertilizer and interaction of NPSB fertilizer and intra row spacing did
not show significant effects on dry matter content and Specific Gravity (Appendix Table 1).

The highest tuber dry matter content (27.04%) and specific gravity of tubers (1.095 g cm-3) of
tubers were obtained from plants spaced at 40 cm intra-row spacing which was statically par
with 30 cm while the lowest tuber dry matter content (25.59%) and specific gravity of tubers
(1.089 gcm-3) were recorded from plants spaced at 20 cm intra-row spacing which was
statically at par with 30 cm (Table 8). This reduction in dry matter and specific gravity at the
narrowest intra-row spacing may be due to stiffer competition in the closer plant spacing for
light, nutrients and soil moisture which reduced the photosynthetic rate of plants and
ultimately the dry matter partitioning to the tuber and specific gravity of tubers may be
reduced.

In agreement with this result, Fayera et al. (2017) measured highest tuber dry matter
accumulation (27.17 kg) in plants grown at the wider intra row spacing (40 cm) and the lowest
tuber dry matter accumulation (1.13 kg) obtained from narrower intra row spacing (10 cm). In
line with the present result, Tamiru (2004) also reported highest dry matter accumulation was
obtained in plants grown at the wider plant spacing. Corroborating the results of this study,
Tafi et al. (2010) also indicated that in the closer plant spacing, competition for resources
among plants in the later growing period resulted in significant losses of tuber dry matter
contents. In lined with present result Birhanu et al. (2014) also reported that the highest
specific gravity(1.088 gcm-3) were obtained from wider spaced plants while the lowest
specific gravity of tubers (1.082 gcm-3) were registered from closer plant spacing. In contrast
with present result Minwyelet et al. (2017) reported that tuber dry matter and specific gravity
of potato was highly significantly influenced by NPS fertilizer rates. The increase in dry mater
content and specific gravity with increased NPS fertilizer rates may be improved growth and
development of plants and increased stored assimilates in potato tubers with higher rates of
NPS fertilizer.

Table 8.Main effects of NPSB fertilizer rate and intra-row spacing on tuber quality related
parameters of Belete variety at Debre-Lebanos during 2019 off-season under irrigation

Intra-row spacing (cm) Tuber dry matter (%) Specific gravity g/cm3)
20 25.59b 1.089b
30 26.57ab 1.093ab
40 27.04a 1.095a
LSD (5%) 1.37 0.0046
CV % 5.4 0.6
Means within column in each parameter followed by the same letter(s) had non-significant
difference at 5% significance level. LSD (5%) = Least significant difference at P<0.05 and CV
(%) = Coefficient of variation in percent.
4.6. Agronomic Efficiency

It was observed highly significantly (P<0.01) differences among the ratios of total tuber yield
to rates of NPSB fertilizer at three intra-row spacing in potato as estimate of agronomic
efficiency (Appendix Table 2).

The highest agronomic efficiency as ratio of total tuber yield to rates of NPSB fertilizer
(93.07:1) was observed in treatments combination of 250 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer and 30 cm
intra-row spacing. However, the treatments combination of 200 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer and 30
cm, and 250, 200 and 150 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer with 20 cm intra-row spacing had non-
significant agronomic efficiency as ratios with the earlier highest agronomic efficiency as
ratio. The lower agronomic efficiency as ratio of total tuber yield to rates of NPSB fertilizer
was estimated for treatments combinations of 300, 250, 200 and 150 kg ha-1NPSB fertilizer
with 40 cm intra-row spacing (Table 9).

The results of agronomic efficiency for rates of NPSB fertilizer showed that the efficiency was
reached maximum at the application of 250 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer and plants at 30 cm intra-
row spacing. The agronomic efficiency as ratios with non-significant difference with the
maximum efficiency obtained application of 250 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer with lowest intra-row
spacing of 20 cm, 150 and 200 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer with 20 and 30 cm intra-row spacing
indicated that the higher chance of attaining higher agronomic efficiency of NPSB fertilizer by
adjusting to the lower level of intra-row spacing to lower/higher levels of fertilizer rates. The
agronomic efficiency being low due to higher rates of NPSB fertilizer with plants at widest
intra-row spacing of 40 cm indicated that the luxury utilization of nutrients by dispersed plants
but with lower efficiency to convert the applied nutrients to higher economic yield.

The higher tuber yields with higher fertilizer efficiency obtained from 150, 200 and 250 kg ha-
1
NPSB fertilizer in combination of 20 and 30 cm intra-row spacing might be due to the
attaining of appropriate levels of macronutrients and micronutrients and plant populations.
This result is in line with Fayera et al. (2014) who indicated that matching appropriate
essential macronutrients and micronutrients with crop nutrient uptake could optimize nutrient
use efficiency and crop yield. Fageria et al. (2008) also reported that an efficient plant is one
that produces higher economic yield with optimum quantity of applied or absorbed nutrient.
This result is also supported by the results reported by Desta (2017) that the lowest agronomic
efficiency (32.53) was obtained from application of 200% NPSZnB with adjusted N kg ha -1
while the highest agronomic efficiency (78.11) was obtained from treatment that received
100% NPSB with adjusted N of blended fertilizer.

Table 9. Agronomic efficiency as ratio of tuber yield to NPSB fertilizer rates at three intra-
row spacing in potato at Debre Libanos District during 2019 off season under irrigation

Intra-row spacing (cm)

-1
NPSB rate (kg ha ) 20 30 40
abc ab
150 72.3 81.04 36.44d
200 78.33ab 75.07ab 37.83d
250 82.22ab 93.07a 49.52cd
cd bc
300 49.48 66.69 39.81d
LSD (5%) 24.869
CV (%) 23.1
Means in table followed by the same letter(s) are significantly not different at 5% probability
level. LSD (5%) = Least significant difference at P= 0.05; and CV (%) = Coefficient of
variation in percent.

4.7. Partial Budget Analysis

The partial budget analysis revealed that the maximum net benefit of Birr 249291.50 ha-1 with
marginal rate of returns (MRR) of 7861.33% was estimated for plants that received 250 kg ha-
1
blended NPSB fertilizer and 30 cm intra-row spacing. The lowest net benefit of Birr
1
93210.00 ha was obtained from plants that did not receive blended NPSB fertilizer and
spaced at 30 cm intra-row spacing (Table 10).

Partial budget analysis was done using procedure described by CIMMYT Economics Program
(1988) recommendations stated that application of fertilizer with the marginal rate of return
above the minimum level (100%) is economical. The application of 250 kg blended NPSB and
30 cm intra row spacing which gave the highest net benefit and marginal rates of return greater
than the minimum considered acceptable to farmers (100%). The identification of a
recommendation is based on a change from one treatment to another if the marginal rate of
return of that change is greater than the minimum rate of return. Based on this result, 250 kg
 blended NPSB ha-1 and 30 cm intra row spacing resulted highest adjustable marketable tuber
yield 37.97 (t ha-1) is profitable to the farmers in the study area.

Table 10. Partial budget Analysis of effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra row
spacing on yield related traits and tuber Yield of potato Debre Libanos District under irrigation
during 2019 off season.

Treatment Cost of Labor

NPSB Intra-row AMT fertilizer cost TVC
( kg ha-1) spacing Y and seed (ETB (ETB ha- GB (ETB NB MRR
-1 - -1 1 -1 -1
(cm) (tha ) (ETB ha ha ) ) ha ) (ETB ha ) (%)
1
)
0 20 17.89 20238 0 18000.00 125230.00 107236.00
150 20 28.61 22346.1 985 21093.10 200270.00 179182.90 2326.05
200 20 32.89 23048.8 985 21795.80 230230.00 208440.90 4167.81
250 20 37.29 23751.5 985 22498.50 261030.00 238537.50 4278.73
300 20 33.08 24454.2 985 23201.20 231560.00 208364.80 D
0 30 15.03 14238 0 12000.00 105210.00 93210.00 1385.06
150 30 27.31 16346.1 985 15093.10 191170.00 176076.90 2679.09
200 30 29.97 17048.8 985 15795.80 209790.00 193994.90 2552.42
250 30 37.97 17751.5 985 16498.50 265790.00 249291.50 7861.33
300 30 35.04 18454.2 985 17201.20 245280.00 228078.80 D
0 40 14.85 11238 0 9000.00 103950.00 94956.00 2056.57
150 40 20.82 13346.1 985 12093.10 145740.00 133652.90 1251.07
200 40 22.80 14040.8 985 12795.80 159600.00 146810.90 1874.36
250 40 27.70 14751.5 985 13498.50 193900.00 180407.50 4776.32
300 40 25.85 15454.2 985 14201.20 180950.00 166754.80 D
-1 -1
Where: Cost of fertilizer NPSB = 14.054 Birr kg , Cost of tuber seed= 6 Birr kg ; Fertilizer
application cost = 985 Birr ha-1, potato tuber local selling price = 7 Birr kg-1, AMTY= Adjusted
Marketable Tuber Yield, TVC= Total Variable Cost, GB=Gross benefit, NB= Net Benefit,
MRR= Marginal Rate of return, ETB= Ethiopian Birr. D= Dominated Treatment.
 5. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

Potato is a crop of the world’s major economic importance and number one non-grain food. It
is an important crop in Ethiopia and plays a major role in national food and nutritional
security, poverty alleviation, and income generation. It is successfully produced under rain fed
as well as under irrigated conditions in different climatic regions of the country for tuber by
farmers and commercial growers in Ethiopia including in Debre Libaanos District of central
highlands of Ethiopia.

Oromia Regional State accounted more than half of the total area allocated for potato in the
country during, However, the share of the region from total potato yield of potato is produce
lower than the share of the land due to the lower average yield of potato in the region than the
national average yield.The low productivity of potato is due to low soil fertility as a result of
over exploitation, poor soil fertility managements and improper agronomic practices including
plant spacing. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted to asses effects of blended NPSB
fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing on yield related traits and tuber yield of potato, and to
estimate cost-benefit of NPSB fertilizer for potato production in Debre Libaanos District of
central highlands of Ethiopia in Oromia Regional State during 2019 off-season under
irrigation. The treatments consists of five rates of blended NPSB fertilizer (0, 150, 200, 250
and 300 kg ha-1) and three intra-row spacing (20, 30 and 40 cm). The experiment was laid out
as a Randomized Complete Block Design in a 5 x 3 factorial arrangement and replicated three
times.

The research results showed that most of the phenology, growth, yield components, yield and
quality related traits were significantly influenced by the two main factors. The main factors,
intra-spacing and NPSB fertilizer had significant effect on phenology (days to 50% flowering
and 90% physiological maturity), growth (plant height), yield components (average tuber mass
kg hill-1, average tuber weight g/tuber, marketable tuber number hill-1, unmarketable tuber
number hill-1, proportion of very small size tubers, small size tubers and large size tubers) and
tuber yields (marketable, unmarketable and total tuber yields). Tuber dry matter content (%)
and specific gravity of tubers(g/cm-3), proportion of medium size tuber was affected by NPSB
fertilizer but not intra-row spacing and number of main stem hill-1 not influenced by the two
main factors, intra-spacing and NPSB fertilizer. Interaction of intra-row spacing and NPSB
fertilizer significantly influenced average tuber mass, average tuber weight, marketable tuber
yield, unmarketable tuber yield, and total tuber yield. The agronomic efficiency showed
significant differences among the treatment combinations of the five rates of NPSB fertilizer
application and the three intra-row spacing. The results of the research suggested the
importance of considering the rates of NPSB fertilizer and intra-row spacing to increase the
tuber yield and to identify rates of appropriate rate(s) of fertilizer with highest agronomic
efficiency in the study area.

Day t50% flowering and 90% maturity delayed at widest intra-row spacing of 40 cm and
highest rates of NPSB fertilizer (300 kg ha-1). The height of plants reached at maximum at
wider intra-row spacing (30 and 40 cm) and higher rates of NPSB fertilizer (250 and 300 kg
ha-1). The higher and lower marketable and unmarketable tuber number (hill-1), respectively,
obtained by the application of 250 and 300 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer while lower and higher
marketable and unmarketable tuber number (hill-1) at the spacing of 30 and 20 cm,
respectively. Average tuber mass (kg hill-1) were higher at wider spacing (30 and 40 cm intra-
row spacing) with the application of higher rates of 250 and 300 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer while
higher average tuber weight (g/tuber) was obtained at widest intra-row spacing (40 cm) and
application of higher rates of 250 and 300 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer. The higher proportion of
medium and large size tubers was obtained from higher rates of fertilizer application while the
higher proportion of very small and small size tubers without fertilizer application. The higher
proportion of very small and small size tubers was obtained from plants at lowest intra-row
spacing of 20 cm while the higher proportion of large size tubers from plants at widest intra-
row spacing of 40 cm. This showed that the wider intra-row spacing and higher rates of NPSB
fertilizer either separately or/and together or the interaction of the wider intra-row spacing and
higher rates of NPSB fertilizer had significant and positive influence to increase the mean
values of potato variety (Belete) for phenology, growth and yield components.

The highest tubers dry matter and specific gravity were estimated from plants at the widest
intra-row spacing of 40 cm while the lowest dry matter and specific gravity were estimated
from plants at the lowest intra-row spacing of 20 cm. The higher marketable tuber yield of
42.19 and 41.47 t ha-1 obtained from plants at 30 and 20 cm intra-row spacing, respectively,
with the application of 250 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer and significantly higher total tuber yield of
44.6 and 43.32 t ha-1 obtained at 20 and 30 cm intra-row spacing, respectively, with the
application of 250 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer. The highest agronomic efficiency as ratio of total
tuber yield to rates of NPSB fertilizer (93.07:1) was observed in treatments combination of
250 kg ha-1NPSB fertilizer and 30 cm intra-row spacing.

Furthermore, the partial budget analysis revealed that the maximum net benefit of 249291.50
Birr ha-1 with marginal rate of returns (7861.33%) was estimated the treatment that received
the application of blended 250 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer and 30 cm intra-row spacing. Therefore,
it can be concluded that 250 kg ha-1 blended NPSB fertilizer rates and 30cm intra-row spacing
can be provisionally recommended for potato growers in study area. However, it is hardly
possible to make this combination of treatments as a final recommendation, because the
research was conducted at one location in the District and under irrigation during off-season
not representing the main season production, and only one variety popular in central highlands
of Ethiopia. Thus it is recommended to conduct further study considering both seasons at more
than one location and considering other recently released potato varieties to make sound
recommendation to increase the yield of the crop.
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7. APPENDICS
 Appendix Table 1. Mean squares from analysis of variance for tuber yield, yield related traits,
and tuber quality of potato as influenced by blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row
spacing
NPSB Intra-row
Replication Error CV
Source of variation fertilizer spacing a x b (8)
(2) (28) (%)
(a) (4) (b)(2)
Days to 50% flowering 8.6 63.244** 54.2** 1.64NS 3.48 3.2
Days to 90% maturity 9.689 58.13** 44.356** 2.133NS 6.308 2.3
Plant height(cm) 6.648 231.392** 57.08** 1.596NS 6.36 4.1
-1 NS NS NS
Number of main stem hill 0.068 0.038 0.065 0.057 0.029 2.9
Average tuber mass (kg hill-1) 0.0021 0.21** 0.28* 0.007* 0.0031 7.9
Average tuber weight (g/tuber) 64.46 1159.43** 864.58** 94.86* 38.41 9.7
Marketable tuber number hill-1 0.634 21.77** 24.82** 1.15NS 0.52 8.6
Unmarketable tuber number hill-1 0.131 9.42** 1.564** 0.287NS 0.17 16.1
Marketable tuber yield(t ha-1) 1.99 553.65** 315.042** 17.214* 7.37 9
Unmarketable tuber yield(t ha-1) 0.0298 5.241** 9.41** 0.216* 0.091 13.3
Total tuber yield(t ha-1) 2.277 456.58** 395.895** 17.23* 7.342 8.4
Very small size tuber (%) 3.986 151.579** 38.709** 6.568NS 4.541 26.3
Small size tuber (%) 156.07 221.77** 119.89** 23.83NS 12.48 29.1
Medium size tuber (% 24.64 64.23** 41.72NS 25.19NS 14.21 9.7
NS
Large size tuber (%) 92.2 392.49** 178.79** 13.90 12.63 8.7
Tuber dry matter content (%) 3.848 5.353NS 8.22* 2.243NS 2.014 5.4
Specific gravity of tubers(g/cm3) 0.000074 0.000103NS 0.00016* 0.000043NS 3.905 0.6
NS, * and **, non-significant, significant at P=0.05 and P=0.01, respectively, and CV (%)
=Coefficient of variation in percent. Number in parenthesis represents degree of freedom to
the respective source of variation.

Appendix Table 2. Analysis of variance for agronomic efficiency as ratio of tuber yield to
NPSB fertilizer rates at three intra-row spacing in potato at Debre Libanos during 2018 off
season under irrigation
Degree of Mean
Source of variation freedom Sum squares squares
Replication 2 592.5 296.3
Treatment com 11 12953.4 1177.6**
Error 22 4745.5 215.7
CV (%) 23.1
**, highly significant at P<0.01, and CV (%) = coefficient of variation in percent.