Investigating Factors Affecting Iron Levels in Sorghum in Rubanda District.
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2024
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kabale University
Abstract
This study investigated the factors affecting iron levels in sorghum in Rubanda District. The research aimed to: (a) determine baseline iron levels in sorghum, (b) investigate soil-sorghum iron relationships using titration, and (c) assess the impact of agricultural practices on iron absorption. A total of five sorghum samples from different agricultural fields were analyzed using titration methods. The results revealed a significant variation in baseline iron levels, ranging from 12.8 to 40.0 mg/kg, with a mean of 26.57 mg/kg. Correlation analysis showed a strong negative relationship between soil pH and sorghum iron content and a moderate positive correlation with organic matter content. Additionally, fields treated with chemical fertilizers and those that were irrigated generally exhibited higher iron content compared to fields with organic fertilizers and non-irrigated fields. The study concluded that soil pH and fertilizer type significantly influenced iron content in sorghum, highlighting the importance of managing soil acidity and choosing appropriate fertilizers to enhance micronutrient levels. Recommendations include implementing soil pH adjustment measures and considering the use of chemical fertilizers or optimized organic fertilizer blends to improve iron content in sorghum crops.
Description
Keywords
Investigating Factors Affecting, Iron Levels, Sorghum, Rubanda District
Citation
Mujuni, Livingstone (2024). Investigating Factors Affecting Iron Levels in Sorghum in Rubanda District. Kabale: Kabale University.