1.

Abstract
2. Introduction
o 1.1 Background
o 1.2 Objectives
 1.2.1 General Objective
 1.2.2 Specific Objectives
o 1.3 Problem Statement
o 1.4 Significance of the Research
o 1.5 Hypothesis
3. Literature Review
o 2.1 Importance of Phosphorus in Plant Growth
o 2.2 Sorghum Production and Nutrient Requirements
o 2.3 Effects of Phosphorus Fertilization on Sorghum
o 2.4 Phosphorus Use Efficiency in Sorghum Cultivation
o 2.5 Economic Implications of Phosphorus Fertilization
4. Methodology
o 3.1 Study Area Description
o 3.2 Experimental Design and Treatments
o 3.3 Data Collection and Analysis
5. Work Plan
6. Time and Budget Estimates
7. References

Certainly! Below is a comprehensive research proposal on the “Effect of Phosphorus Fertilizer

Level on Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.)”, structured according to your specified format.

Effect of Phosphorus Fertilizer Level on Sorghum (Sorghum

bicolor L.)
Abstract

Phosphorus (P) is a vital macronutrient influencing various physiological and biochemical

processes in plants, including energy transfer, photosynthesis, and nutrient movement within the
plant. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.), a staple cereal crop in many parts of the world, often faces
yield limitations due to phosphorus-deficient soils, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. This study
aims to evaluate the impact of varying phosphorus fertilizer levels on the growth, yield, and
phosphorus use efficiency of sorghum. A field experiment will be conducted using different
phosphorus application rates to determine the optimal level that maximizes sorghum productivity
while ensuring sustainable soil fertility management. The findings will provide insights for
farmers and policymakers to enhance sorghum production through efficient phosphorus
fertilization strategies.
1. Introduction

1.1 Background

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) is the fifth most important cereal crop globally and serves as a
primary food source in arid and semi-arid regions due to its drought tolerance and adaptability to
marginal soils. In Ethiopia, sorghum is a major staple crop, particularly in regions like Tigray,
where it contributes significantly to food security and livelihoods. However, sorghum yields in
these areas are often suboptimal, primarily due to soil nutrient deficiencies, with phosphorus
being one of the most limiting nutrients. Phosphorus plays a crucial role in root development,
energy transfer, and overall plant vigor. Its deficiency can lead to stunted growth, delayed
maturity, and reduced grain yield. Addressing phosphorus deficiency through appropriate
fertilization practices is essential to enhance sorghum productivity and ensure sustainable
agricultural development.

1.2 Objectives

1.2.1 General Objective

To assess the effect of different phosphorus fertilizer levels on the growth, yield, and phosphorus
use efficiency of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.).

1.2.2 Specific Objectives

 To evaluate the impact of varying phosphorus application rates on sorghum growth

parameters such as plant height, leaf area, and biomass accumulation.
 To determine the effect of phosphorus levels on sorghum yield components, including
grain yield, panicle length, and 1000-grain weight.
 To assess phosphorus use efficiency under different phosphorus fertilization regimes.

1.3 Problem Statement

In many sorghum-growing regions, particularly in Ethiopia, soils are inherently low in available
phosphorus, leading to poor crop performance and low yields. Farmers often lack access to site-
specific fertilizer recommendations and may apply suboptimal phosphorus rates, resulting in
inefficient nutrient use and economic losses. There is a pressing need to identify the optimal
phosphorus fertilizer levels that enhance sorghum growth and yield while promoting efficient
nutrient utilization.

1.4 Significance of the Research

This research will provide empirical data on the optimal phosphorus fertilizer rates for sorghum
production in phosphorus-deficient soils. The findings will aid in developing site-specific
fertilizer recommendations, improving sorghum yields, and promoting sustainable nutrient
management practices. Enhanced sorghum productivity will contribute to food security and the
livelihoods of smallholder farmers in regions like Tigray, Ethiopia.
1.5 Hypothesis

 Null Hypothesis (H₀): Phosphorus fertilizer levels have no significant effect on the
growth, yield, and phosphorus use efficiency of sorghum.
 Alternative Hypothesis (H₁): Phosphorus fertilizer levels significantly affect the
growth, yield, and phosphorus use efficiency of sorghum.

2. Literature Review

2.1 Importance of Phosphorus in Plant Growth

Phosphorus is a critical macronutrient involved in various plant processes, including energy

transfer through ATP, nucleic acid synthesis, and membrane formation. Its availability influences
root development, flowering, and seed formation. Phosphorus deficiency can lead to stunted
growth, dark green or purplish foliage, and delayed maturity.

2.2 Phosphorus Deficiency in Ethiopian Soils

Ethiopian soils, particularly in the highlands and semi-arid regions, are often characterized by
low available phosphorus due to factors like soil erosion, continuous cropping without adequate
fertilization, and fixation of phosphorus by iron and aluminum oxides. Studies have shown that
phosphorus deficiency is a major constraint to crop production in Ethiopia, necessitating
appropriate fertilization strategies to replenish soil phosphorus levels.

2.3 Response of Sorghum to Phosphorus Fertilization

Research indicates that sorghum responds positively to phosphorus fertilization, with

improvements in plant height, biomass accumulation, and grain yield. For instance, a study
conducted in the Kersa District of Ethiopia reported significant increases in sorghum grain yield
with the application of phosphorus fertilizers, highlighting the importance of phosphorus in
enhancing sorghum productivity.

2.4 Phosphorus Use Efficiency

Phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) refers to the ability of plants to absorb and utilize applied
phosphorus for growth and yield. Enhancing PUE is crucial for sustainable agriculture, as it
ensures maximum crop productivity with minimal fertilizer input, reducing environmental
impacts and production costs. Factors influencing PUE include phosphorus application rates, soil
properties, and crop management practices.

2.5 Optimal Phosphorus Application Rates

Determining the optimal phosphorus application rate is essential to maximize crop yield and
PUE. Excessive phosphorus application can lead to environmental issues like eutrophication,
while insufficient application results in poor crop performance. Site-specific studies are
necessary to establish appropriate phosphorus rates tailored to local soil and climatic conditions.
3. Methodology

3.1 Description of the Study Area

The study will be conducted in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia, characterized by semi-
arid climate conditions, with annual rainfall ranging between 400-600 mm and average
temperatures of 20-25°C. The soils in the area are predominantly Vertisols and Cambisols,
known for their low phosphorus availability.

3.2 Experimental Design

A field experiment will be laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three
replications. The treatments will consist of five phosphorus fertilizer levels: 0, 23, 46, 69, and 92
kg P₂O₅ ha⁻¹, applied as triple superphosphate (TSP). Each plot will measure 4 m x 5 m, with
appropriate spacing between plots and blocks to minimize edge effects.

3.3 Agronomic Practices

 Land Preparation: The experimental field will be plowed and harrowed to achieve a
fine tilth.
 Sowing: Certified sorghum seeds will be sown at a recommended seeding rate, with
appropriate spacing between rows and plants.
 Fertilizer Application: Phosphorus fertilizers will be applied at planting, incorporating
them into the soil. Nitrogen fertilizer will be applied uniformly across all treatments to
eliminate nitrogen as a limiting factor.
 Weed and Pest Management: Regular weeding and pest control measures will be
implemented to ensure optimal crop growth.

3.4 Data Collection

 Growth Parameters: Plant height, number of leaves, and leaf area will be measured at
different growth stages.
 Yield Components: Panicle length, number of grains per panicle, 1000-grain weight, and
grain yield per plot will be recorded at harvest.
 Phosphorus Use Efficiency: PUE will be calculated using the formula: PUE = (Grain
yield in fertilized plot - Grain yield in control plot) / Amount of phosphorus applied.

3.5 Soil and Plant Tissue Analysis

Soil samples will be collected before planting and after harvest to determine available
phosphorus levels using the Olsen method. Plant tissue samples will be analyzed for phosphorus
content to assess uptake and utilization.

3.6 Data Analysis

Collected data will be subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using statistical software like
SAS or R. Treatment means will be compared using the least significant difference (LSD) test at
a 5% significance level.

4. Work Plan

Activity Months
Site selection and land preparation Month 1
Procurement of inputs Month 1
Sowing and fertilizer application Month 2
Crop management Months 2 - 5
Data collection Months 2 - 5
Harvesting Month 6
Laboratory analysis Months 6 - 7
Data analysis and interpretation Month 8
Report writing Months 9 - 10

5. Time and Budget

5.1 Time Schedule

The study is planned over a 10-month period, aligning with the sorghum growing season in the
Tigray region.

5.2 Budget Estimate

Item Estimated Cost (ETB)

Land preparation 5,000
Seeds and fertilizers 10,000
Labor (sowing, weeding, harvesting) 15,000
Laboratory analysis 8,000
Data analysis and software 2,000
Report writing and printing 3,000
Miscellaneous 2,000
Total 45,000

6. References

1. Marschner, H. (2011