Improving Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Productivity through Optimised Nitrogen and Phosphorus Application in Northwestern Ethiopia

Abstract

Nutrient management is a major challenge limiting sesame productivity in the lowland areas of Gondar. This study examined how nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilisers influence sesame growth and yield in Metema, West Armachiho, and Tegedie using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Five N rates (0, 46, 69, 92, 115 kg ha-1) and three P2O5 rates (0, 23, 46 kg ha-1) were applied, with P incorporated at sowing and N split between sowing and branching. Most growth and yield traits responded significantly to fertiliser application, except hundred seed weight. Both N and P2O5 had highly significant effects, and their interaction influenced branching, thousand seed weight, and grain yield. No three way interaction with location was observed. Although the maximum biological yield was achieved at the higher rate of 115 kg N and 46 kg P2O5 ha-1, economic analysis demonstrated that the application of 46 kg N and 23 kg P2O5 ha-1 provided the greatest net benefit and economic return across all districts. Overall, optimized rates of N and P nutrients are essential for improving sesame productivity, and the application of 46 kg N and 23 kg P2O5 ha-1 is recommended for sesame production in the lowland areas of North West Ethiopia and similar agro ecologies.