Abstract

Low fertilizer use hampers the productivity and sustainability of many Ethiopian farming systems. To address this challenge, this study evaluated the performance of Green Farm Plus liquid fertilizer, an alternative to expensive chemical fertilizers, for improving bread wheat growth and yield. Field experiments were conducted in Humbo and Boloso Sore districts of Wolaita zone (Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region) in 2023. Treatments included Green Farm Plus, Eco Green liquid fertilizer, and a control (no fertilizer). The experiment used a randomized complete block design with four replications. Plant height, spike length, seeds per spike, thousand seed weight, and grain yield were measured. Both Green Farm Plus and Eco Green improved bread wheat performance compared to the control. Notably, Green Farm Plus significantly enhanced growth and yield parameters. This suggests its potential as a cost-effective and sustainable fertilizer option for Ethiopian farmers, particularly resource-poor ones facing rising chemical fertilizer costs. Further research is recommended to optimize application rates and integrate Green Farm Plus with other good field management practices for long-term soil fertility and food security in Ethiopia.

Keywords: Green farm plus; Yield advantage; Organic liquid fertilizer; Soil nutrient