| dc.description.abstract | n Uganda, okra production has largely been based on landraces but the productivity of these
landraces is poor, making the crop less profitable for farmers. In the recent past however,
improved okra varieties have been introduced on the market and farmers are urged to grow
them. However, little is known about their performance in Central Uganda. Therefore, the
objective of this study was to contribute to the improvement of Okra production in Uganda by
identifying superior okra varieties. Five Okra varieties (Pusa Suwani, Maha F1, Clemson 4,
Local 1 and Local 2) were planted on 14th May 2021, in a randomized complete block design
(RCBD) with three replications at Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute
Kabanyolo (MUARIK). The crops were weeded twice using a hand hoe and harvested by
hands at harvest maturity. Data were collected on ten (10) agronomic parameters and all were
significantly influenced by variety. Local 1 and Local 2 had superior agronomic traits
including fruit yield. Improved varieties had significantly lower leaf area index compared to
local varieties. It is therefore recommended that (i) the study be repeated for at least 2 more
seasons to ensure that findings are consistent, (ii) studies be done determine optimum plant
population for the improved varieties, and (iii) Local 1 and Local 2 varieties be recommended
in the meantime to farmers for production. | en_US |
