The need for genetic and management solutions to limitations imposed by drought and low N on maize production in Tanzania
1997
Mduruma, Z.O. | Ngowi, P.S.
Important constraints limiting maize production in Tanzania include both biotic to abiotic factors. The former, which covers pests and diseases, have received much attention The latter, which includes drought and low soil nitrogen status, has received little attention. In most of the maize growing areas of Tanzania the maize crop is subjected to frequent drought due to erratic rainfall. Crop losses due to drought can be lop to 50 Per cent in some seasons. The National Maize Research Program (NMRP) aims to overcome some of these effects of drought by providing an escape mechanism through development of early-maturing varieties and hybrids. Early maturing maize populations have been developed, targeted for the drought prone areas in the low and mid-altitude zones, and varieties with grain yields of up to 4 t/ha have been released. However, the early maturing varieties have been found to be very sensitive to early season stress, resulting in smaller cob and grain sizes, and hence lower yields. Nutrient deficiency, especially N, is a widespread problem in Tanzania because of low use of purchased fertilizers and lack of suitable crop rotations. Breeding for drought resistance and low-N utility is a feasible route towards increasing and stabilizing maize yields in moisture-stressed areas. NMRP plans to collaborate with CIMMYT, IITA and other national programs in the evaluation of resistant germplasm, and in agronomic work on soil fertility, soil enriching rotations and water conservation methods.
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