Effect of N and NPSB Fertilizer Rates on Growth, Yield and Yield Components of tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.)Trotter) Varieties in Gechi District, Southwestern Ethiopia

Effect of N and NPSB Fertilizer Rates on Growth, Yield and Yield Components of tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.)Trotter) Varieties in Gechi District, Southwestern Ethiopia | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Effect of N and NPSB Fertilizer Rates on Growth, Yield and Yield Components of tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.)Trotter) Varieties in Gechi District, Southwestern Ethiopia Adisu Akalu, Solomon Tulu, Amsalu Nebiyu, Garome Shifaraw This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-6546186/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Background: Tef [Eragrostis tef (Zucc) Trotter] serves as a crucial staple meal for around 57.2 million individuals in Ethiopia, or over 64% of the nation's entire population, and is a significant source of sustenance and income. However, its growth and yield are mainly constrained by inappropriate soil fertility management and lack of site- and variety-specific fertilizer recommendations. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted during the 2020 main cropping season under rainfed conditions on a farmer's field in the Gechi district, southwestern Ethiopia. The study aimed to assess the impact of varying rates of N + NPSB fertilizer on the growth, yield, and yield components of tef varieties, as well as to determine the economically optimal amounts of N + NPSB fertilizer for enhanced yields of tef varieties in the testing environment. Methods: The treatment was laid out in a 3*6 factorial RCBD consisting of tef varieties and N + NPSB fertilizer rates with three replications. SAS versions 9.3 was used to record growth, yield, and yield component data and perform an analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: Except for days to 50% flowering (DF), days to 90% physiological maturity (DPM), and harvest index (HI), the results indicated that the main and interaction effects of variety and fertilizer rates were significant (p < 0.05) for all the variables examined. The highest grain yield (2565.4 kg ha -1 ), thousand seed weight (0.30 g), and harvest index (30.64%) were recorded from the Kora variety under an application rate of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer ha -1 . Based on partial budget analysis, the combination of Kora variety and 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻¹ gave the highest net benefit of 93,447.45 Birr ha⁻¹ with a marginal rate of return (MRR) of 1082.4% Birr ha⁻¹, which could be considered as profitable for the farmers in the study area.The Kora variety exhibited the maximum agronomic efficiency, applying 23 kg N + 150 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻¹. Conclusions: The study suggests that farmers in the study area can use 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB and Kora variety. However, since the data is obtained from only one season and location, it will be worth repeating the experiment under field conditions across different seasons and locations to draw sound conclusions and recommendations. Growth NPSB fertilizer Tef Yield Figures Figure 1 1. INTRODUCTION Tef [Eragrostis tef (Zucc) Trotter] is a cereal crop that belongs to the family Poaceae, subfamily Eragrostidae , tribe Eragrosteae and genus Eragrostis , which includes approximately 350 species. Tef ( Eragrostis tef /Zucc./Trotter) is a C4, self-pollinated and warm season annual grass that grows 40–80 cm tall [ 1 ]. It is thought to have originated between 4000 and 1000 BC in Ethiopia [ 2 ]. Tef is adaptable to a wide range of ecological conditions at altitudes ranging from near sea level to 3000 m.a.s.l., and it could even be grown in an environment too harsh for most cereals, with the best performance occurring in Ethiopia between 1100 and 2950 m.a.s.l [ 3 ].It is widely grown in a temperature range of 10–27°C is most suitable to avoid frost, annual rainfall of 750–850 mm and also mainly cultivated on sandy loam to black clay soils [ 4 ]. The tef crop responds well to warm temperatures and can be grown in areas experiencing moisture stress as well as in waterlogged areas [ 5 ]. Tef has cultural and economic significance for Ethiopian farmers, with over seven million households relying on tef production ([ 6 ]. It is a daily staple food for approximately 57.2 million Ethiopians, accounting for more than 64% of the country's total population [ 7 ]. Tef has a higher food value than the major grains, such as wheat, barley, and maize. This makes first in nutritional value than any other cereals in the country [ 8 ]. Tef is popular food in the national diet of the majority of Ethiopians chiefly for making injera . In addition to these, tef is used in preparation of local alcoholic drinks such as tela and katikala , as well as porridge [ 9 ]. Nutritionally, tef grain is rich in minerals and is an excellent source of protein, amino acids and carbohydrate. Tef is also being gluten-free, and is therefore considered as an admirable solution for the increasing gluten-sensitive population worldwide [ 10 ]. The farmers highly valued the straw of tef and used as a vital source of animal feed, especially during the dry season. Farmers feed tef straw preferentially to lactating cows and working oxen. Cattle choose tef straw over other cereal straw and for this motive, its price is greater than that of other cereal crops and also used to reinforce mud and plaster for the walls of the house and local grain storage facilities called “ Gotera” [ 11 ]. International demand for tef is also growing due to its high nutritional value and its potential as water efficient fodder for livestock. Tef covers the largest agricultural area of the country than any other types of grain, but its productivity is very low [ 12 ].Currently, in Ethiopia tef is cultivated in an area of about 3.1 million ha of land [ 6 ]. Tef and maize taking up about 24% and 17% of the total grain crop area, respectively [ 6 ]. This makes tef the first among cereals in the country in area coverage. However, out of the total cereal grain produced, maize and tef accounted for 28.7% (9.6 million tons) and 17.7% (5.7 million tons), respectively, and the average national yield of tef is only 1.85 ton ha-1 in 2020 main cropping season [ 6 ] which is very low as compared with tef yield produced at research station 2.53 to 3.2 tons ha-1 and its yield potential of 6 tons ha-1 [ 13 ]. The Oromia Regional State is suitable for tef production in Ethiopia. In the region, among the total land area of 4.9 million hectares planted by cereals, tef covered 1.48 million hectares, which is 30% of the production area covered by all cereals grown in the region. Among all the crops grown in the region, tef is the first major crop in area coverage [ 6 ].In the study area, tef is one of the dominant cereal crop produced for the purpose of both home consumption and income generation. In the study area, about 7,796 hectares were covered by tef, which occupies about 37.5% in terms of area coverage by cereals in 2020 main cropping season. However, its production and productivity is 13, 097.3 tons and 1.68 tons ha − 1 respectively. These figures indicated that the productivity of tef is very low as compared to the potential yield of the crop in the study area. In spite of its tremendous importance, tef production in the country, region as well as in the study area has faced immense production constraints such as a low soil fertility and suboptimal use of fertilizers, weeds, and erratic rainfall distribution, lack of high yielding cultivars, lack of appropriate management practices, and lodging [ 14 ]. Among these, soil fertility problems and lack of high yielding cultivars are one of the main factors that severely reduce the yield of tef [ 15 ]. Recently acquired soil inventory data revealed that the deficiencies of most of nutrients such as, nitrogen (86%), phosphorus (99%), sulfur (92%), boron (65%) and zinc (53%) are widespread in Ethiopian soils [ 16 ]. Of these nutrients, the study area is deficient to nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur and also boron due to poor soil fertility caused by topography, soil erosion, deforestation, population pressure, continuous cultivation of major stable crops for a long period of time, low fertilizer use and inadequate organic matter application. Besides to these, majority of the Ethiopians farmers largely depend on two fertilizers types alone to supplement unbalanced and sub-optimal fertilization of Ethiopian soils by DAP and Urea (P and N containing fertilizer) for a long period of time has led to severe soil nutrient depletion [ 17 ]. Those plant nutrient deficiencies are forced to the use of new brand of blended mineral fertilizers which contains both macro and micronutrients [ 18 ]. However, the amount of N in the blended NPSB fertilizer is insignificant in comparison to the tef nitrogen requirement. The nutrient requirement of tef is 40 kg N and 26 kg P on Nitisols soil type [ 19 ]. As result, there is a needed to test the NPSB fertilizer by supplementing it with N, which is used as a source of N fertilizer, in order to fulfill nutrient requirement of tef. Likewise, improved varieties are basic and essential agricultural inputs because; it is a key component of agricultural productivity, food security for human sustenance and sustainable economic. Almost all farmers in the study area used the low yielding local variety called " Gerawo " rather than improved tef varieties, which contributed to declined production and productivity of tef. Previous studies showed that several studies were conducted by various researchers in different organizations to explore fertility status of Ethiopian soils and concluded that, N and P nutrients were the only limiting nutrients in most Ethiopian soils [ 20 ]. Subsequently, crop response experiments to fertilizers conducted on-stations and on-farmers’ fields revealed that applications of these inputs have appreciably improved the yields of crops and thus the use of N and P fertilizers by farmers have been recommended. Application of fertilizers containing N and P [Urea and Diammonium phosphate (DAP)] as a blanket recommendation [(100 kg DAP (18-46-0) and 100 kg Urea (46-0-0)] began in the late 1960s [ 21 ] to improve the productivity of the soil. Those blanket recommendation brought generally, an increase in yield of improved varieties ranging from 1700 to 2200 kg ha [ 11 ]. However, this blanket fertilizer recommendation failed to take into consideration differences in resource endowment such as soil type, labor capacity and climate risk or make allowances for dramatic changes in input/output price ratio, thereby discouraging farmers from fertilizer application. Moreover, the nutrients in the blanket recommendation are not well balanced for agronomic improvement and its continued use gradually exhausted soil organic matter. To overwhelm the soil fertility and crop productivity problems, the use of site, soil and crop specific fertilizer recommendations very crucial [ 22 ]. While few studies have been conducted to overcome micronutrient deficiency problems in the study area [ 23 ]. Information on the use of appropriate type of blended fertilizers in relation to crop productivity and soil physico-chemical properties remains to be limited in Gechi district, South western Ethiopia. Hence, addressing soil nutrient deficiencies is essential to improve the growth and yield of tef in the study area. It is also quite important to address plant nutrient deficiency with respect to tef varieties, economic benefits and agro-ecologies. The present study was, therefore initiated with the following objectives: General objective To evaluate the effect of N + NPSB fertilizer rates on growth, yield and yield components of tef varieties at Gechi District Southwestern Ethiopia. Specific objectives To determine the optimum level of N + NPSB fertilizer rates on growth, yield and yield components of tef varieties. To identify the economically feasible level of N + NPSB fertilizer for tef production in the study area. 2. MATERIALS AND METHODS 2.1. Description of the study area During the 2020 main cropping season, the experiment was carried out on a farmer's field in Gito Kebele, Gechi District, Buno Bedele Zone, Oromia Regional National State. Geographically, the experimental site is located at 08° 18’39’’N latitude and 36° 26’29’’E longitude, at an altitude of 2132 m.a.s.l (Fig. 1 ). The experimental site receives an average annual rainfall and temperature of 1850 mm and 21 o C respectively during the main cropping season. The soil type of the site is Nitisols with a pH of 5.9 which is moderately acidic. The experimental site was under wheat cultivation during the previous growing season. Tef, maize, sorghum, wheat, and finger millet were the main crops cultivated in the regions. Both the crops and the region have been farmed for a very long time. 2.2. Experimental materials Two improved tef varieties, namely Dz-01-1880 (Guduru) and Dz-cross-438 (Kora), and one Local variety (Gerawo) were used for the experiment. Two improved varieties of tef were obtained from the Bako Agricultural Research Center. But, the remaining local variety is obtained from the selected farmer living around experimental area. These varieties were selected on the basis of their good adaptability and high yielding potential of the tef crop (Table 1 ). Table 1 Descriptions of the tef varieties used for the experiment No. Name Year of release Maturity Altitude m.a.s.l Productivity (t ha − 1 ) under rainfed On farmer At research 1 Dz-01-1880(Guduru) 2006 132 1850–2500 1.4-2.0 1.5–2.3 2 Dz-cross-438 (Kora) 2014 110–117 1650–2400 1.8–2.2 2.5–2.8 3 Local variety(Gerawo) - 90–105 - - 2.3. Treatments and experimental design The treatment included three varieties and six levels of combined N + NPSB fertilizer rates (0 kg N + 0 kg NPSB, 46 kg N + 100 kg NPSB, 11.5 kg N + 100 kg NPSB, 23 kg N + 150 kg NPSB, 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB, and 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB).In the study area the recommended rate of N and NPSB fertilizers were 46 kg N and 100kg NPSB fertilizer ha − 1 . The treatment set up was done on the basis of pre planting laboratory soil analysis for the purposes of identifying optimum rate of fertilizer rate and high yielding cultivars for the study area. The study was set up using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications and 6*3 factorial configurations. 2.4. Experimental procedures and crop management A field layout was created in compliance with the design specifications.. The total experimental area was 10m x 45.5m (455m2).The size of each gross and net experimental plot were 2m x 2m (4m2) and 1.6mx 1.6m (2.56m2). The blocks were separated by 1.0 m wide open spaces, whereas the plots within a block were 0.5 m apart from each other. Seeds were sown at a rate of 15 kg ha-1 rows of 20 cm spacing manually by drilling 2020 main cropping season. Each plot therefore had ten rows. This means 1/3 of N was applied after two weeks or after emergence and 2/3 of the rest N was applied before booting in all plots except the control. The outermost two rows from each side of a plot and 0.4 m on both ends of each row were considered as border and were not included in recorded data. Weeds were removed by hand when required. All other recommended cultural practices (site selection, land preparation, sowing, weeding, etc.) for the test crop were done as per the recommendation to the area. 2.5. Pre-planting soil sampling for laboratory analysis Soil samples (0–20 cm depth) were collected from the experimental field by Auger sampler using W-shaped pattern from the whole experimental plots for the purpose of obtaining a good representative sample from the whole field and composited into one sample before sowing the crop and bulked. After being air dried and pounded with a pestle and mortar, the samples were permitted to flow through a 2 mm sieve. Analyzed for selected physico-chemical properties mainly texture (Particle size), soil pH, cation exchangeable capacity (CEC), organic carbon, total N available P, S, and B at Bedele Soil Laboratory Research Center. Particle size distribution was determined using the Bouyoucos hydrometer method ([ 24 ]. Organic carbon was determined by Walkley and Black oxidation method ([ 25 ]. Total nitrogen was analyzed by Kjeldhal method [26]. The pH of the soil was determined at 1:2.5 (weight/ volume) soil to water dilution ratio using a glass electrode attached to a digital pH meter [ 27 ]. Cation exchange capacity was measured after saturating the soil with 1N ammonium acetate (NH4OAC) and displacing it with 1N NaOAC [ 28 ]. The Olsen method was used to determine the amount of phosphorus that was available [ 29 ]. KH2PO4 extraction was used to calculate the amount of available S[30]. Available B was determined using the hot water method [ 31 ]. 2.6. Data collection and measurements 2.6.1. Crop Phonological parameters Phonological data like Days to 50% flowering (DF), Days to 90% physiological maturity (DPM) was collected which determined by visual observation. 2.6.2. Growth parameters Growth related parameters like Plant height (PHT), Panicle length (PL), Total number of tillers plant − 1 (TNT), Number of productive tillers plant − 1 (NPT) were collect on plant base or plot base. Lodging percentage (LP) : Visual observation was used to determine the degree of lodging shortly before harvest. The scales were as follows: zero (0–15o) denoted no lodging, one (15–30o) 25% lodging, two (30–45o) 50% lodging, three (45–60o) 75% lodging, and four (60–90o) 100% lodging (Donald, 2004). 2.6.3. Yield and Yield Components Yield related data like Total above ground dry biomass yield (TAGDBY), 1000 seed weight (TSW), Grain yield (GY) were collected from plot area of (2.56 m 2 ) and converted into kg ha − 1 . Grains were cleaned following harvesting and threshing, weighed using electronic balance, and adjusted to 12.5% moisture content using the following formula [ 32 ] $$\:\text{G}\text{r}\text{a}\text{i}\text{n}\:\text{y}\text{i}\text{e}\text{l}\text{d}\:(\text{k}\text{g}/\text{h}\text{a})=\text{Y}\text{i}\text{e}\text{l}\text{d}\:\text{o}\text{b}\text{t}\text{a}\text{i}\text{n}\text{e}\text{d}\:(\text{k}\text{g}/\text{h}\text{a})*\frac{100-\%\:actual\:moisture\:content}{100-12.5}$$ Harvest index (HI) harvest index was calculated by dividing grain yield by the total aboveground biomass yield. $$\:\text{H}\text{a}\text{r}\text{v}\text{e}\text{s}\text{t}\:\text{i}\text{n}\text{d}\text{e}\text{x}\left(\text{%}\right)=\frac{Grain\:yield\:per\:plot}{Above\:ground\:dry\:biomass\:per\:plot}*100$$ Agronomic efficiency (kg kg − 1 ) It is defined as the economic production obtained per unit of fertilizer applied and was calculated as $$\:\text{A}\text{E}\:(\:\text{k}\text{g}/\text{h}\text{a})=1+\frac{Gf\left(kg)-Gu\right)\left(\text{k}\text{g}\right)}{Na\left(kg\right)}$$ Where, AE stands for agronomic efficiency, Gf and Gu for grain yield in fertilized and unfertilized plots, respectively, and Na for quantity of fertilizer applied. 2.7. Statistical Analysis The data was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) as per the design used in the experiment using statistical analysis software version 9.3 [ 33 ] and interpretation were made following the procedure of [ 34 ]. Mean separation was conducted using the least significant difference test (LSD) to evaluate the different N + NPSB fertilizer levels on tef varieties on Nitisols at 5% level of significance. Pearson correlation coefficient analysis was performed to determine the relations between phenological, growth parameter and yield and yield components as influenced by N + NPSB fertilizer application rates. For the analysis, the ANOVA model was: The linear additive model (L.A.M.) is as follows: Xikj = µ + Ai + Bj + (AB) ij + Rk + Eijk, where Xijk is the ith level of factor A and the jth level of factor B in the kth block; µ is the overall mean; Ai is the effect of N + NPSB blended fertilizer; Bj is the effect of tef variety; (AB) ij is the interaction effect of N + NPSB blended fertilizer and tef variety; Rk is the block's effect, In the kth block, Eijk is the error term linked to the ith level of factor A, the jth level of factor B, and (AB)ij. 3.8. Partial budget analysis According to the partial budget analysis, the profitability of N + blended NPSB fertilizers ha − 1 with the three tef varieties was illustrated in Table 8 . The average labor cost for fertilizer application, the local market cost for fertilizer and seed cost at sowing time, and for tef grain and straw yield at the time the crop was harvested. Thus, prices for tef grain (i.e. local variety = 30 Birr kg − 1 and for Guduru and Kora variety = 38 Birr kg − 1 ) and straw yield of the three variety are the same = 2.5 Birr kg − 1 ). The cost of N and NPSB fertilizer were 15.40 and 15.68 Birr kg − 1 respectively, and the seed cost of two improve variety is the same 60 Birr kg − 1 , but the cost of local variety is low = 30 Birr kg − 1 Labor cost for fertilizer application was estimated to be 2 person-days per one application time; each person day costing 50 Birr. Identify the economic optimum rate and economic analysis (dominance and the marginal rate of return) was done using the CIMMYT [ 35 ] partial budget methodology. The average grain and straw yields were adjusted downward by 10% to approximate yields farmers get [ 35 ]. Dominance analysis was used to screen treatments which have a higher variable cost and lower net return and dominated treatments were removed from further consideration. A treatment having a marginal rate of return (MRR) greater or equal to 100% is said to be economically profitable. Tef yields were adjusted downwards by 10% to more closely approximate yields. The cost benefit analysis was calculated as follows: TCV = the sum of cost input (labor + seed + N and NPSB fertilizer), AGY = grain yield x 10/100; GB = adjusted grain yield x variable cost of grain yield (price of yield), NB = gross benefit-total variable cost, MRR% = change of net benefit divided to change of total variable cost x 100. $$\:\text{M}\text{R}\text{R}\:\left(\text{b}\text{e}\text{t}\text{w}\text{e}\text{e}\text{n}\:\text{t}\text{r}\text{e}\text{a}\text{t}\text{m}\text{e}\text{n}\text{t},\:\text{a}\:\&\:\text{b}\right)=\frac{Change\:in\:NBa}{Change\:in\:TVC\left(TVCb-TVCa\right)}*100$$ 4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 4.1. Selected Physicochemical Properties of Experimental Soil before Sowing The soil texture of the experimental area was 15.20% sand, 29.50% silt and 55.30% clay showed in Table 2. The properties of soil texture affect water holding capacity, water intake rate, aeration, root penetration, and the fertility status of the soil. The Soil pH the soil, with 5.9 values was categorized as moderately acidic Nitisols as indicated in Table 2. Cation Exchange Capacity: is an important parameter of soil, because it gives an indication of the type of clay minerals present in the soil, soil texture, organic matter content of the soil and its capacity to retain nutrients against leaching [36]. The CEC of the site was 34.21cmol/kg as indicated in Table 2. Organic carbon: Accordingly the result obtained from soil laboratory indicated that, the value of OC was in medium range. According to Boix et al .[37] showed that a threshold of 3-3.5% soil organic carbon had to be attained to achieve increases in aggregate stability; no effects on aggregate stability were observed in soils below this threshold. Total Nitrogen: The total nitrogen content of the experimental soil was measured at 0.124% (see Table 2). The experimental site can be classified in low range. The optimum N level needed for crop production under most soils of Ethiopia is reported to be <0.2 % according to [16]. The low nitrogen content in the soil may be attributed to inadequate vegetation cover, frequent land cultivation, and limited crop residue returned to the fields. Available Phosphorus: The range of phosphorus in the Bray technique is 59, which correspond to very low, low, medium, high, and very high levels, respectively, according to Bray [38]. This indicates that the research area's phosphorus availability is extremely low and that phosphorous fertilizer has to be applied. Available Sulfur: Available sulfur value of the study area was 7.04 ppm (Table 3). The reported soil categorization for sulfur values falls into the very low range, according to EthioSIS [16]. " 80 mg kg-1 high" are the classifications. Therefore, adding sulfur-containing fertilizer is important. Accessible Boron: The research area's available boron was 0.67 parts per million (Table 2). For the majority of Ethiopian soils, the required B value is 0.8 ppm kg-1 [18]. This indicates that the study area's soils lack B, indicating the need for fertilizer containing B. The low B concentration of the soil was caused by intensive agriculture and the use of boron-free fertilizers in the region. Generally, the above indicated information is very important for the purpose of determining and adjusting treatment set up to be followed in the experiment and also significant for provision necessary information about the experimental site for the success of future work. Table 2: Selected physico-chemical properties of the soil of the experimental site before planting No. Soil Characters Values Rating References Sand (%) 15.20 - Clay (%) 55.30 - Silt (%) 29.50 - 1. Texture Class Clay Loam Bouyoucos (1962) 2. pH(H 2 O) 5.9 Mod/Acidic London (1991) 3. Organic C (%) 2.46 Medium EthioSIS (2013) 4. Total N (%) 0.124 Low EthioSIS (2013) 5. CEC (meq/100 g of soil) 34.21 High Hazeton & Murphy (2007) 6. Available P (mg kg -1 ) 5.54 Very Low EthioSIS (2013) 7. Sulfur (meq/100 g of soil) 7.04 Very Low Dung (2003) 8. Organic matter (%) 2.0 Low Olsen et al , (1954) 9. Available Boron (ppm) 0.67 low EthioSIS (20130 Where pH: power of hydrogen 4.2. Effect of N and NPSB fertilizer rates on phenological parameters of tef 4.2.1. Days to 50 % flowering The primary effect of N+ had a substantial (p 0.05 ). The Guduru variety had the longest days to 50% flowering (64 days), whereas the local variety had the shortest days to 50% flowering (52 days) (Table 3). When compared to the Kora and local cultivars, the Guduru variety took two and twelve days longer, respectively, to reach 50% blooming. Tef cultivars' varying days to 50% flowering may be caused by genetic variations as well as how each variety reacts to its environment. The earliest days to 50% flowering (57 days) were obtained at the application of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha⁻¹, which was statistically comparable to the treatment that received 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB (57 days), 23 kg N + 150 kg NPSB (58 days), and 11.5 kg N + 100 kg NPSB (59.44 days) fertilizer rates ha⁻¹. However, the longest days to 50% flowering (63 days) were obtained from an unfertilized plot, which was statistically similar to 46 kg N + 100 NPSB kg ha-1 and 11.5 kg N + 100 kg NPSB kg ha-1, with mean days to 50% flowering of 61 and 59 days, respectively. At higher rates of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB, 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB, and 23 kg N + 150 kg NPSB fertilizer application rates ha-1, respectively, the number of days to 50% flowering increased by 6, 6, and 5 days. This was demonstrated by the increasing tendency of days to 50% flowering with decreasing rates of N + NPSB fertilizer ha⁻¹. The greater rates of NPSB combined with N fertilizer may be the result of early establishment, rapid crop growth, and development, which could explain the increased days to 50% flowering. Because P has a function that speeds up the growth and development of the crop plant, its application accelerated the days until flowering. Yared et al. [40] found that applying N and blended NPS fertilizer accelerated the days to 50% flowering because the tef plants were able to absorb enough nutrients from the soil, which led to early establishment, rapid growth, and development of the crop. This result is consistent with their findings. Assefa [41] claims that the number of days to flowering reduced as the NP level rose. Consequently, the days were prolonged to 50% flowering in the unfertilized plots. 4.2.2. Days to 90 % physiological maturity Days to 90% physiological maturity were considerably (p0.05) impacted by their interaction. Similar to the days to 50% blooming, the Guduru variety had the highest value for days to 90% physiological maturity (98 days), while the Local variety had the lowest value (86 days) (Table 3). Compared to Kora and local types, the Guduru variety took 5 days (6%), and 12 days (14%), longer, to attain 90% physiological maturity. The genetic differences between the kinds and how each responds to the blended NPSB fertilizer with additional N fertilizer may be the cause of the observed variation in the number of days needed to reach 90% physiological maturity. On the other hand, the highest mean days to 90% physiological maturity (98 days) was obtained from the local variety in the control plots, which was statistically on par with the treatment that received 46 kg N + 100 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha⁻¹ (96 days). In contrast to all other treatments, the rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻¹ produced the shortest mean days to physiological maturity (85 days). When the amount of N + NPSB fertilizer level increases from an unfertilized plot to a combined application of 46 kg N and 250 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha⁻¹, the number of days to 90% physiological maturity was shown to reduce linearly. Due to this, the control treatment takes longer than the application rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha-1 to reach 90% physiological maturity, which is 13.18 days (15%). The presence of balanced fertilizer in the blended fertilizer may be the cause of the increased maturity following blended fertilizer application. Crops treated with P fertilizer typically show good root development to attain physiological maturity on schedule, while crops fertilized with N fertilizer typically display superior vegetative growth. Brady and Weil [42] showed that phosphorus application could possibly shorten days to physiological maturity; subsequently it promotes rapid cell division. Onasanya et al . [43] presented that phosphorus plays a significant role in various physiological processes that occur within developing and maturing plants. It is involved in enzymatic reactions in the plant and enhances the maturity time of plants. Sulfur enhanced the formation of chlorophyll and encouraged vegetative growth, and Boron is vital for normal development or growth of new cells [44]. However, a lack of necessary components could be the cause of the physiological maturity delay at control plots. According to Seifu [11] the application of 150 kg NPSB ha⁻¹ and 69 kg N ha⁻¹ resulted in the shortest days (95) to physiological maturity of tef, whereas the control group produced the longest days (106). According to Tilahun et al . [45], increasing P2O5 from 50 kg ha⁻¹ to 100 kg ha⁻¹ while increasing the compost rate from 0 to 7.5 t ha⁻¹ caused a decrease in the number of days to maturity and an increase in rice grain production. Table 3 : The main effect of Varieties and N + NPSB fertilizer rates on phenological traits of tef Tef varieties Days to 50% flowering Days to 90% physiological maturity Guduru 64 a 98 a Kora 62 b 93 b Local 52 c 86 c LSD (5%) 2.7 1.5 N + NPSB (Kg ha -1 ) 0+0 63 a 98 a 46+100 61 ab 97 ab 11.5+100 59abc 94 b 23+150 58 bc 91 c 34.5+200 57 c 88 d 11.5+100 57 c 85 e 11.5+100 63 a 98 a 23+150 61 ab 97 ab 34.5+200 59abc 94 b LSD (5%) 3.82 2.21 CV (%) 6.74 2.5 Means followed by the same letter within a column are not significantly different from each other at 5% level of significance. LSD (0.05) = Least Significant Difference at 5% level, and CV (%) = Coefficient of Variation in percent 4.3. Effect of N and NPSB fertilizer rates on growth parameters of tef 4.3.1. Plant height Plant height was significantly (p < 0.05) influenced by the main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer rates and varieties as well as by their interaction. The tallest plant height (123.08 cm) was obtained at the rate of 46 kg N + 250 NPSB kg fertilizers ha⁻¹ from the Kora variety, which was statistically at par with the treatment that received 200 kg NPSB along with a 34.5 kg N fertilizer rate ha⁻¹ (121.3 cm), while the shortest plant height (91.4 cm) was obtained from the control plot of the local variety, but other treatment combinations were statistically similar to 11.5 kg N + 100 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha⁻¹ (92.4 cm) and the treatment that received a zero fertilizer application rate ha⁻¹ (93.9 cm) along with the Guduru variety (Table 4). Increasing the combined application of NPSB and N from the control plot to 46 kg N + 250 kg ha⁻¹ with the Kora variety increased plant height by about 28% and 34.6%, compared to the recommended rate of N and NPSB fertilizer and the non-fertilized plot with local varieties, respectively. The fact that N in the blended fertilizer and in supplemental N favors vegetative growth of tef, which results in higher stature of plants through synthesis of macromolecules (proteins, enzymes, pigments, hormones, etc.), as well as the rate of processes like photosynthesis on cell division and cell elongation, and finally internode length, led to a significant increase in plant height with the increasing rate of N + NPSB fertilizer, according to the current result [46].Soil applied with increased rates of N increases internode length, which ultimately results in increased plant height; also, N application enhances the overall vegetative growth of plants [47]. P is used in energy transfer for cellular metabolism, enhancing the growth of roots and shoots of the plant; sulfur enhanced the formation of chlorophyll and encouraged vegetative growth, and boron enhanced the growth of new cells and N absorption [48]. Also, the plant height difference could be arisen from the variability of the genetic makeup of the cultivars response to external environmental conditions. Similar to the present result, Fissehaye et al. [49] and Haftom et al. [50] found that applying a large amount of nitrogen fertilizer to tef plants encouraged plant height (92 kg N ha⁻¹). [51] also found that using a blended fertilizer with a balanced N content improved maize plant height. In general, increased combined application of N and blended fertilizer showed a tendency to increment in plant height. In contrast to this result, Adera [52] stated that plant height of tef was not significantly affected by the rate and type of different blended [1] with the kora variety, which increased plant height by about 28 and 34.6% compared to the fertilizers. The lack of significance among the blended fertilizer treatments might be due to the constant amount of nitrogen they use (64 kg N ha -1 ) for all rates and types of treatments in which the increase in nitrogen rate increases the plant height. Bizuwork [53] also reported non-significant main and interaction effects of blended fertilizer rate on plant height of durum wheat. 4.3.2. Panicle length The main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer rates, varieties, and their interaction effect was significant (p < 0.05) and influenced panicle length. Similar to plant height, the panicle length also increased with increasing combined application from plots that received zero fertilizer to the highest application rates of blended fertilizer supplemented with N fertilizer ha⁻¹.The tallest mean panicle length (46.6 cm) was recorded at the highest rate of 46 kg N ha⁻¹ combined with 250 kg NPSB ha⁻¹ from the Kora variety, which was the only significantly different from all other treatments, although the shortest mean panicle length (34.6 cm) was recorded in the unfertilized plot from the local variety, which was statistically at par with nil application rate of N + NPSB fertilizer ha⁻¹ from the Guduru variety (35.6 cm) (Table 4). Kora variety with an application of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB gave 28% and 34.6% panicle length improvement over the recommended rate of N and NPSB fertilizer and control plots from the local variety, respectively. On the other hand, the significant increment of panicle length treated by N and NPSB fertilizer might be due to the fact that nitrogen is considered one of the major limiting nutrients in plant growth, and the adequate supply of nitrogen promotes the formation of chlorophyll, which in turn results in higher photosynthetic activity, vigorous vegetative growth, and taller panicle lengths. Phosphorus is required in large quantities in shoot and root tips where metabolism is high and cell division is rapid [54]. Similarly, sulfur promotes the formation of chlorophyll, higher photosynthetic activity, vigorous vegetative growth, and taller plants, contributing to the improvement of panicle length. The presence of boron in the blend also significantly increased panicle length due to its important role in cell division and nitrogen absorption from the soil, enhancing the growth of panicle length. Numerous studies have linked the effect of high N and P application on tef yield to the pivotal role of panicle length in grain yield [55]. The tallest plant height contributed to the formation of longer panicle lengths. This was also evident from the observed positive and significant (p < 0.05) correlation of panicle length with plant height (r = 0.99). This finding is consistent with the finding of Haftamu et al. [50], who found a positive and highly significant correlation between panicle length and plant height and grain yield. In line with this finding, Adera [52] reported that applying 150 kg ha⁻¹ of blended NPSKZnB fertilizer in addition to that containing 64 kg⁻¹ resulted in longer panicle length. According to Wakjira [56], increasing the application rate of blended fertilizer from 0 to 120 kg ha⁻¹ significantly increased the panicle length of the tef by about 61.6%. According to the results, Fayera et al . [57] reported that the longest panicle length (45.60 cm) was obtained from the use of 150 kg ha⁻¹ blended NPKSZnB with 23 kg N ha⁻¹, while the shortest (30.17 cm) was gained from the control plots. 4.3.3. Total number of tillers per plant The total number of tillers plant -1 was significantly (p < 0.05) influenced by the main effect of both N + NPSB blended fertilizer and tef varieties and their interaction. The Kora variety produced the highest number of total tillers plant -1 (9.9) at the application of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha -1 , which was significantly higher than the effect of other rates, while the minimum total number of tillers plant -1 (4.2) was attained at the control plot from the local variety, which was also statistically in par with nil application of fertilizers (4.6) from the Guduru variety (Table 4). The total number of tillers plant -1 was obtained from the Kora variety with 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer application rate ha-1, giving 59.6 and 134% total number of tillers advantage over the recommended rate of N and NPSB fertilizer and control plots with the local variety, respectively. The total number of tillers plant -1 variably responded to N + NPSB fertilizer rates and varieties. The highest number of tillers at the highest rates of NPSB supplemented with N could be attributed to the rapid conversion of synthesized carbohydrates into protein, which increased the number and size of growing cells, resulting in a higher number of tillers. In addition to this, nitrogen promotes activities essential for carbohydrate utilization and its most important function in plant promotion of rapid growth through the increasing total number of tillers plant -1 [47]. It might also be due to the positive role of P found in NPSB, which enhances the development of radicle and seminal roots during seedling establishment, which in turn promotes N uptake and N assimilation by growth points, triggering tillers, which subsequently results in overall plant growth and an increase in TT of plants [58]. Sulfur for the high number of tillering and boron for its higher cell division contributed to an increasing total number of tillers plant -1 [59]. In line with this result, Brhan [60], who reported that applying a blended fertilizer (69 kg N ha -1 + 46 kg P2O5 + 22 kg S ha -1 + 0.3 kg Zn ha -1 ) resulted in a significant increase in total tillers (15 tillers per plant) of tef as compared to 5 tillers plant hormone for cell division. Consistent with this finding, Seifu [11] and Haftamu et al . [50] reported a significantly higher number of total tillers in response to a high N rate on tef. The current finding is also consistent with the findings of Okubay et al. [61], who found that increasing N levels in tef from 0 to 69 kg ha -1 resulted in a significant increase in the number of total tillers. Similarly, Wakjira [56] reported that increasing the rate of blended NPS fertilizer from unfertilized plots to 120 kg ha⁻¹ increased the total number of tillers consistently and significantly. According to Seifu [11], the highest total number of tef tillers was obtained from the application of the highest rate, 150 kg ha⁻¹, of blended (NPSB) fertilizer, while the lowest numbers of tillers were obtained from the control plot. 4.3.4. Number of productive tillers per plant The number of productive tillers plant -1 was significantly (p < 0.05) influenced by the main effect of N + blended NPSB fertilizer rates and varieties. The interaction effect of the N + NPSB and varieties also significantly influenced this parameter. The number of productive tillers is one of the most vital yield-determining components and is directly related to the grain yield of tef. Accordingly, the Kora variety had better performance than Guduru and local varieties in growth, yield, and yield component parameters. The number of productive (fertile) tillers plant -1 (8.7) was produced from the Kora variety with a combined application of 34.5 kg N and 200 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha -1 , which was statistically similar to the Kora variety (8.5) with a combined application of 46 kg N and 250 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha-1, and also from the Kora variety (8.2) at a rate of 23 kg N + 150 kg NPSB fertilizer ha -1 , while the lowest number of productive tillers (4.16) was produced from the control plots from the local variety, which was statistically similar to the Guduru variety (4.4) from the unfertilized plot.(Table 4). The highest number of total tillers plant -1 was produced at the highest rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB ha -1 , but due to severe competition among the tillers, it caused a decreasing survival percentage of productive tillers. Due to this reason, the highest productive tillers were recorded from 34.5/200 kg N and NPSB fertilizers ha -1 . Moreover, the productive tillers of tef were more enhanced by the application of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB kg ha -1 with the Kora variety by 75% and 117% over the recommended rate of N and NPSB fertilizer and the control plot with the local variety, respectively. The enhanced productive tillers plant -1 at 34.5 kg N + 200 kg ha -1 fertilizer rates might be due to optimum supply and availability of balanced nutrients under blended NPSB and N fertilizers. Botella et al. [62] reported stimulation of tillers with optimal application of N and blended NPSB fertilizers was attributed to the positive effect of N on cytokinin synthesis, which is an important hormone for cell division and shoot growth. In addition, phosphorus encourages the growth of lateral roots and fibrous rootlets that facilitate nutrient uptake [44], and sulfur facilitates the uptake of other nutrients by the crop and boron for cell division [63]. Likewise, Haftamu et al. [50] and Tekalign et al. [19] found that increasing the N rate on tef resulted in a significantly higher number of tillers. Fayera [57] also discovered that increased light and N availability during the crop's vegetative growing period improves tillering. The combined application of 46 kg N and 92 kg P ha -1 produced the much more productive tillers plant -1 (4.14), which was statistically similar to other combined treatments, while the control treatment produced the fewest (3.18). This could be due to the application of N and P fertilizer, which promotes vigorous vegetative growth. In agreement with the findings of this study, Fayera et al. [57] discovered the most productive tef tillers when 200 kg ha⁻¹ (NPKSZnB) blended (14 N, 21 P₂O₅, 15 K₂O, 6.5 S, 1.3 Zn, and 0.5 B) + 23 kg N ha⁻¹ fertilizer was applied. 4.3.5 Lodging percentage Lodging is a serious problem in tef production that causes high yield reduction due to the country's use of high amounts and unbalanced rates of NP fertilizers. It accounts for approximately 11-22% of total grain yield losses on average [11]. The main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer application rates, varieties, and their interaction effect was significantly (p < 0.05) influenced by the lodging percentage of tef. The highest lodging percentage (52.1%) was obtained from the local variety with a combined application of 46 kg N and 250 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha⁻¹, which was significantly different from other treatments, whereas the lowest lodging percentage (24%) was recorded from the Kora variety at nil fertilizer application rate, which was statistically on par with the lodging percentage (26.7%) obtained from the Guduru variety at the control plot (Table 4). The increase in crop lodging with increased nitrogen fertilizer rate might be due to the profound effect of an excessive supply of nitrogen, which can cause the tender, succulent stem of tef, thereby leading to a weak stem of the plant. Heavy nitrogen application reported to reduce the strength of the stem base and anchorage system, stem diameter, and stem wall width [64]. The genetic factor might play a significant role in increasing or decreasing the lodging problems in the study area more than the management practices to be followed because the entire experimental area is uniformly managed except for the rate of fertilizer applied. However, there is a trade-off between fertilizer use and lodging, as fertilizer leads to an increase in the number of panicles and grains per panicle, which in turn increases the weight of the stem and the possibility of lodging. This result is consistent with that of Abraha [65], who revealed that lodging in cereals is deliberated to be caused by high doses of nitrogen fertilizer application. Similarly, Tekalign et al. [66] found significant differences in lodging percentage of tef due to N application rates of more than 60 kg ha⁻¹. This result is in agreement with the suggestion of Brady and Weil (2002) that excessive application of N causes high vegetative growth and extension of stem cells that consequently leads to weak stems and lodging. The maximum lodging index, 70.83%, was gained from 150 kg ha⁻¹ blended fertilizer, whereas the minimum, 31.25%, was from the non-fertilized plot. Table 4: The interaction effect of Varieties and N + NPSB fertilizer rates on growth parameters of tef Tef Varieties N + NPSB rates (kg ha -1 ) PH (cm) PL (cm) TNT (Plant -1 ) PT (Plant -1 ) LP (%) 0+0 93.9 ijk 35.6 jkl 4.6 j 4.4 kl 26.7 m 46+100 99.8 fgh 37.8 ghi 7.4 cde 6.8cdef 39.6 efg Guduru 11.5+100 97.7 ghi 37.0 hij 7.0 def 6.26 def 35.7hi 23+150 102.3 def 38.8 efg 7.6 cd 6.9 cde 41.1d ef 34.5+200 112.7 b 42.0 cd 7.8 c 7.0 cd 42.2 cde 46+250 106 cd 40.2 de 6.8efgh 6.1efgh 43.6 cd 0+0 96.2 hij 36.4 ijk 6.6 fgh 6.1fghi 24.0 m 46+100 103.5 def 39.2 efg 7.9 c 7.2 c 30.7 jk 11.5+100 99.6 fgh 37.7 ghi 6.9 efg 6.3defg 29.2 kl Kora 23+150 113.0 b 42.8 bc 9.0 b 8.2 a 33.7 ij 34.5+200 121.3 a 44.1 b 8.9 b 8.7 a 35.3 hi 46+250 123.0 a 46.6 a 9.9 a 8.5 a 37.9 gh 0+0 91.4 k 34.6 l 4.2 j 4.1 l 35.6 hi 46+100 96.2 hij 36.4 ijk 6.2 hi 5.5 hij 40.5 defg 11.5+100 92.4 jk 35.1 hi 5.5 i 5.1 jk 38.2 fgh Local 23+150 101.4 def 38.4 fgh 6.3 gh 5.1 jk 45.3 c 34.5+200 109.4 bc 41.4 cd 6.6 fgh 5.5ghij 48.9 b 46+250 105.0 de 39.8 def 6.2 hi 5.3 ij 52.1 a LSD (5%) 4.2 1.7 0.67 0.84 3.24 CV (%) 2.4 2.6 5.8 8.0 5.1 Means in the column followed by the same letter(s) are not significantly different at 5% level of significance. LSD (0.05) = Least Significant Difference at 5% level; and CV (%) = Coefficient of Variation in percent, PH=plant height, PL=Panicle length, TNT=Total number of tillers, PT=Productive tillers, LP=Lodging percentage 4.4. Effect of N + NPSB fertilizer rates on yield and yield components of tef 4.4.1. Grain yield The main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer application rates, varieties, and their interaction effect was significant (p < 0.05) and influenced the grain yield of tef. The highest mean grain yield (2565.4 kg ha-1) was obtained from the Kora variety at the rate of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha -1 , which was statistically at par with the grain yield of 2383.4 kg ha -1 obtained from the Kora variety with a combined rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha -1 , whereas the lowest mean grain yield of 704.9 kg ha -1 was obtained from the local variety at nil fertilizer ha -1 , which was statistically similar with the grain yield of 745.9 kg ha -1 obtained from the Guduru variety at the control plot and the grain yield of 890.2 kg ha -1 attained from the local variety at the application rate of 11.5 kg N + 100 kg blended NPSB fertilizer ha -1 (Table 5). The highest grain yield was attained from the Kora variety at the highest rate of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB, which gave the highest grain yield advantage over the recommended rate of N and NPSB fertilizer and the unfertilized treatment of the local variety. The grain yield ha⁻¹ was improved with the combined application of N and blended NPSB fertilizer compared to unfertilized treatments. The possible reasons for the maximum grain yield ha⁻¹ observed from the higher combined application of N and NPSB-blended fertilizer could be due to the contribution of balanced nutrients of both macro and micro plant nutrients present in fertilizers, which increased yield attributes through more uptakes of essential plant nutrients and increased translocation of photosynthetic materials from source to sink [67]. Additionally, the synergetic role of the combined use of blended NPSB fertilizer with supplementary N, thus the adequate supply of N promotes the formation of chlorophyll, which in turn resulted in higher photosynthetic activity, vigorous vegetative growth, and taller plants, P is an essential nutrient in the development of grains and also necessary for seed formation. B plays a vital role in grain setting and grain filling; sterility is declined, and the number of grains per spike or panicle is increased, and S facilitates absorption of other nutrients and enhances the formation of chlorophylls. This contributes to increased photosynthetic efficiency of a crop, stimulates seed production, and stimulates the enzymatic system of plants [68]. This was also evident from the observed positive and significant (p < 0.05) correlation of grain yield with plant height (r = 0.88 ** ), panicle length (r = 0.86**), total tillers (r = 0.93 ** ), productive tillers plant -1 (r = 0.91 ** ), thousand seed weight (r = 0.80**), and harvest index (r = 0.93**), except for lodging percentage, which was significantly and negatively correlated (r = -0.30*). This showed that the increment in plant height, panicle length, total tillers and productive tillers plant -1 , thousand seed weight, and harvest index increases the grain yield, except the lodging percentage was contributed to the observed reduction of tef yield. This result was supported by the recent findings of Teklay et al . [69], where a strong, significant, positive correlation of grain yield with plant height, panicle length, panicle seed weight, straw yield, and harvest index was observed. A similar result was also reported by Chanyalew [70] on 18 tef genotypes; grain yield was positively correlated with plant height, panicle length, thousand grain weight, and harvest index. 4.4.2. Straw yield The main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer application rates, varieties, and their interaction effect was significant (p < 0.05) and influenced the straw yield of tef. The Kora variety gave maximum production of straw yield of 5321.7 kg ha⁻¹ at the rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻¹, which was the only significantly different from other treatments (Table 5), whereas the lowest straw yield of 2923.2 kg ha⁻¹ was obtained from the local variety at control plots, which was statistically in parity with the Guduru variety (2977.7 kg ha⁻¹) from the control plot, the Kora variety (2989.2 kg ha⁻¹) also from nil fertilizer application ha⁻¹ , alike from the local variety (3158.6 kg ha⁻¹) and (3182.5 kg ha⁻¹) at application rates of 11.5 kg N + 100 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻¹ and 46 kg N + 100 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻¹, respectively(Table 5). The straw yield enhanced consistently and significantly in response to increasing the rate of NPSB along with N fertilizer from nil up to the highest application rate of combined fertilizers within the Kora variety. The straw yield was obtained from the Kora variety, and the application of 46 kg N + 250 NPSB kg ha -1 was exceeded by 68.5 and 82% straw yield advantages over the recommended rate and zero fertilizer application with the local variety, respectively. This might be due to the difference among the genetic make-up of the tef crops in response to external environmental conditions, and also the plants grown on plots treated with higher rates of NPSB fertilizer supplemented with N ha -1 were attributed to higher N for abundant vegetative growth, higher P phosphorus for their good root development, a higher level of sulfur for a high number of tillering, and b for its higher cell division; it also contributed to increasing the total number of tillers per plant and influenced the straw yield [59]. Straw yield was also directly related to growth parameters like plant height, panicle length, and number of total and productive tillers plant -1 , which enhanced straw yield. This was also evident from the observed positive and significant (p < 0.05) correlation of straw yield with plant height (r = 0.84 ** ), panicle length (r = 0.83 ** ), total number of tillers (r = 0.88**), and productive tillers plant -1 (r = 0.86) (Appendix Table 3). In line with this result, Dinkinesh et al. [71] reported that the straw yield and other crop growth parameters were enhanced in response to increasing rates of blended NPSB fertilizer, indicating the importance of the availability of balanced nutrients for better growth and development of crop plants. The more availability of N at the highest rates of NPSB might have played a positive role in cytokinin synthesis and cell division and thereby accelerated the vegetative growth of plants. Similarly, according to Abebe [72], straw yield increased with increasing the fertilizer rates, especially nitrogen, which increases vegetative growth of plants at higher doses. Besides, the significant increase in plant height, panicle length, and number of fertile tillers by N rate contributed to the significant increase in straw yield. Consistent with this finding, Melesse [73] reported that wheat cultivars produced higher straw yields in response to the combined application of higher rates of N and P. The increased straw yield might be due to the effect of high N application in the production of effective large numbers of tillers, increased plant height, and panicle length. Haftamu et al. [50] and Mitiku [55], who indicated that the highest straw yield was obtained in response to the application of higher rates of N application, which enhanced the production of significantly longer panicle sizes and taller plants, and as a result, greater biomass yield. 4.4.3. Total above ground dry biomass yield The main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer application rates, varieties, and their interaction effect was significant (p < 0.05) and influenced the total above-ground dry biomass yield of tef. The highest production of total above ground dry biomass yield in Kora varieties (7711.1 kg ha -1 ) was recorded from those plants fertilized with 250 kg NPSB ha -1 supplemented by 46 kg N fertilizer ha -1 which was statistically at par with TAGDBY of 7548.3 kg ha -1 at application rate of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer ha -1 and the lowest mean TAGDBY of 3628.1 kg ha -1 was obtained from the Local variety at nil fertilizer application ha -1 , which were statistically in parity with the nil application of fertilizer ha -1 for both varieties i.e. Guduru (3723.6 kg ha -1 ),and Kora (3968.8 kg ha -1 ) varieties and lastly at application rate of 11.5 kg N + 100 kg NPSB fertilizer ha -1 from Local variety (4048.7 kg ha 1 ) (Table 5). Total above-ground dry biomass yield was enhanced at the highest application rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻¹ with the Kora variety by 113% over control plots of the local variety. The total above-ground dry biomass yield kg ha -1 was improved with increased combined application of N and blended NPSB fertilizer rate ha -1 . The probable reason for the highest straw yield ha -1 was observed from the higher combined application of NPSB-blended fertilizer supplemented with N fertilizer, which could be due to increased leaf area index and protein synthesis that enable the plants to capture ample solar radiation, which may result in the corresponding increment of photosynthetic rate and also the enhancement of investment of assimilates to leaves and stems that finally increase dry matter yield [74]. Likewise, the increase in total above-ground dry biomass yield at the highest rates of blended fertilizer might have resulted from the improved root growth and increased uptake of nutrients favoring better growth of the crop due to the synergetic effect of the nutrients [59]. Tef growth parameters also positively and significantly increased the TAGDBY through improved plant height (r=0.87**), panicle length (r=0.86**), total number of tillers (r=0.92**), and productive tillers plant -1 (r=0.89**). In the case of Guduru and local varieties, TAGDBY was reduced at the highest application rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg blended fertilizer application rate; this might be due to the plant reaching its optimum rate of fertilizer requirements, i.e., 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB ha⁻¹. Beyond these rates, the plant growth and development are reduced, and this condition contributed to the low production of total above-ground dry biomass yield. The result was in conformity with the findings of Seifu [11], who revealed that total above-ground dry biomass yield was significantly affected by the application of blended fertilizer. Similarly, Wakjira [56] reported that application of blended NPS fertilizer shows a significant increment in aboveground biomass yield of tef from 841 to 1009 kg ha⁻¹ at 0 and 120 kg blended NPS ha⁻¹. TGADBY was also increased in significant amounts for different applications of blended fertilizers [57], which states that the increase in biomass yield is attributed to the proportional vegetative growth, especially plant height. This result agrees with the finding of Woubshet et al . [75], who found that application of 150 kg ha⁻¹ NPSB fertilizer increased the biomass yield of wheat by 11.5 t ha⁻¹. This might be due to Sulfur enhanced the formation of chlorophyll and encouraged vegetative growth, and B helps in N absorption. The result was also in conformity with the findings of Adera [52], which showed that total aboveground dry biomass yield was significantly affected by the application of blended fertilizer. Other authors also reported that application of 120 kg ha⁻¹ NPS fertilizer produced the maximum biomass yield of tef [56]. Higher total above-ground dry biomass yield obtained from larger amounts of nitrogen may be due to the increased investment of assimilates to leaves and stems that finally increase dry matter yield. Similar results were reported by Cassman et al. [76], in which the average maize stover yield increased for the N and green manure treatments, with yield increments of 2 to 75% and 6 to 68% over the control treatments, respectively, due to increased N application. 4.4.4. Thousand Seed weight The main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer application rates, varieties, and their interaction effect was significant (p < 0.05) and influenced the thousand seed weight of tef. The highest thousand seed weight (0.308 g) was produced by the application of 34.5 kg N + 200kg NPSB fertilizer ha -1 from Kora variety, which was statically in parity with the combined application rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha -1 (0.295 g) and 23 kg N + 150 kg NPSB fertilizer (0.294 g) from the same variety, while in the lowest TSW (0.208 g) was recorded from Local variety with unfertilized plot, which was statically at par with the same variety at rate of 11.5 kg N + 100 kg NPSB fertilizer ha -1 (0.224 g) (Table 5). The thousand seed weight obtained from the Kora variety at a combined application rate of 34.5 kg N and 200 kg NPSB ha -1 exceeded the recommended rates of N and NPSB and zero fertilizer application with the local variety by 24.2% and 48%, respectively. In other words, the thousand seed weight was increased significantly across the increased rates of NPSB fertilizer supplemented by N fertilizer ha-1. This might be due to the provision of adequate and balanced nutrients, which enhanced the accumulation of assimilate in the grains, resulting in good grain filling and improvement of grain seed size as compared to unfertilized or low-fertilized plants. Higher seed weight is a reflection of improved nutrient use efficiency as a result of increased application of nitrogen level and NPSB fertilizer. This is in line with Muhammad, et al . [77], who reported that applying boron is responsible for carbohydrate metabolism and sugar transport to different parts of plants and application of nitrogen is also positive impact on yield components of wheat crop especially on 1000 seed weight. Likely, thousand-seed weight is the most important yield determining component [78]. The increase in thousand kernel weight with increasing rate of NPSB from 0/0 to 32/23 N/P2O5 could be related to plant growth, the higher the plant growth the higher the photosynthetic area and so photosynthesis, the higher assimilate translocation to the sink. The thousand seed weight plays an important role in increasing the grain yield of cereal crops. The thousand seed weight of tef might be due to the better nutrition of the mother plant during growth up to physiological maturity. This suggestion is in agreement with the finding of Kaleem et al. [79], who reported that higher rates of fertilizer application produced heavy weight seeds. Gebrekidan, [80] has reported that the highest thousand seed weight was obtained from recommended N and NPKSZnB-blended fertilizer and NPSZnB-blended fertilizer; however, the lowest value was recorded for the control plots. AL-Abdul Salam [81] has also reported improvement in thousand seed weight due to fertilizer application. Debnath et al. [82] reported a significant effect of boron application on thousand kernel weight (g) of wheat. Table 5: The interaction effect of Varieties and N + NPSB fertilizer rates on yield and yield components of tef Tef Varieties N + NPSB rates (kg ha -1 ) GY (kg ha -1 ) SY (kg ha -1 ) TAGDBY (kg ha -1 ) TSW (gm) 0+0 745.9 kl 2977.7 j 3723.6 l 0.240 hi 46+100 1635.0 ef 4043.8 ef 5678.8 def 0.266ef 11.5+100 1377.1 g 3775.9 fg 5153.0 gh 0.258 fg Guduru 23+150 1738.6 de 4150.5 de 5889.0 cde 0.273 def 34.5+200 1939.5 cd 4265.0 cde 6204.5 c 0.290 bc 46+250 1640.1 ef 4406.7 cd 6046.8 cd 0.281 bcde 0+0 978.6 ij 2989.2 j 3968.8 kl 0.257 fg 46+100 1832.8 de 4476.9 c 6311.7 c 0.281 bcde 11.5+100 1473.4 fg 4047.6 ef 5524.0 efg 0.266 ef Kora 23+150 2171.6 bc 4821.7 b 6997.3 b 0.294 abc 34.5+200 2565.4 a 4977.9b 7548.3 a 0.308 a 46+250 2383.4 ab 5321.7 a 7711.1 a 0.295 a 0+0 704.9 k 2923.2 j 3628.1 l 0.208 j 46+100 1076.5 hi 3182.5 ij 4259.1 jk 0.248 hg Local 11.5+100 890.2 ijk 3158.6 ij 4048.7 kl 0.224 ij 23+150 1257.8 hg 3428.1 hi 4679.7 ij 0.269 def 34.5+200 1482.4 fgh 3775.7 fg 5258.1 fgh 0.284 bcd 46+250 1257.8 gh 3632.2 gh 4890.0 hi 0.281 bcde LSD(0.05) 238.9 312.6 488.3 0.017 CV (%) 9.54 4.8 5.4 3.8 Means in the column followed by the same letter(s) are not significantly different at 5% level of significance, LSD (0.05) = Least Significant Difference at 5% level; and CV (%) = Coefficient of Variation in percent, GY=Grain yield, SY=Straw yield, TAGDBY=above ground total biomass yield, TSW=Thousand seed weight 4.4.5. Harvest index Harvest index (HI) was calculated as the ratio of grain yield to total above-ground dry biomass yield. The harvest index (HI) of tef was significantly (p 0.05). The harvest index shows the efficiency of the distribution of photosynthetic materials between different plant organs. Variety Kora gave the highest HI of 29.3% as compared to the rest of the varieties, whereas the local varieties, which gave a significantly lower harvest index (24.5%) (Table 6). There was variation in the harvest index of tef varieties that might be due to their genetic variability of tef cultivars and their variation in resource acquisition and nutrient utilization efficiency. On another hand, the application of NPSB supplemented by N fertilizer has a significant effect on harvest index. The maximum harvest index (30.6%) was recorded from the application of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha⁻¹, and the lowest (21.3%) was obtained from the control or unfertilized plot. This low harvest index might be associated with a lack of essential plant nutrients in the soil, and plant nutrients in the soil were not found in easily available form for the crop to use. The reduction in harvest index at a lower rate of N + NPSB fertilizer might be due to the total biomass increasing more than the economic yield of the crop and the reduction of tef yield. This result is in harmony with Mohammed et al. [78], who reported that the application of B and Zn with NPK increases the yield components of wheat, especially the harvest index and grain yield. Tahir et al . [83] articulated that a higher transfer of assimilates to the grain would maximize the harvest index. The higher barley harvest index with increased fertilizer rates might be due to higher grain yield plant -1 at higher fertilizer rates. Similarly, Solomon et al. [13] reported a highly significant and positive relation between harvest index and grain yield in barley. Harvest index as a quantitative trait, an indicator of plant efficiency to distribute dry matter in grain [84]. Additionally, harvest index is the balance between the productive parts of the plant and the reserves, which form the economic yield. Greater improvement in grain yield compared to the corresponding increase in straw yield contributed to the increase in harvest index across the increasing levels of NPSB blended fertilizer [85]. This significant difference in harvesting index obtained from blended fertilizer might be attributed to the sufficient quantity of nutrients, particularly phosphorus, for translocation to sink. In line with the result of Gebrekidan and Seyoum [86], who reported that harvesting index increased with the application of P fertilizer rate in rice. This result is supported by the findings of Tagesse et al. [87], where harvest index was significantly affected by the interaction of blended NPS and supplemental N rates. Tahir et al. [83] articulated that a higher transfer of assimilates to the grain would maximize the harvest index and reduce the proportion of dry matter produced. The higher barley harvest index with increased fertilizer rate might be due to higher grain yield per plant at higher fertilizer rates. Table 6: The main effect of Varieties and N + NPSB fertilizer rates on Harvest index tef Tef varieties Harvest Index (%) Guduru 27.2 b Kora 29.3 a Gerawo 24.5 c LSD (5%) 1.02 N + NPSB (Kg ha -1 ) 0+0 21.3d 46+100 25.1 c 11.5+100 27.6 b 23+150 29.1 b 34.5+200 30.6 a 46+250 28.3 b LSD (5%) 1.44 CV (%) 5.5 Means in the column followed by the same letter(s) are not significantly different at 5% level of significance. LSD (0.05) = Least Significant Difference at 5% level; and CV (%) = Coefficient of Variation in percent 4.5. Agronomic Efficiency Agronomic nutrient use efficiency is the amount of additional yield obtained from each additional kg of nutrient applied [88]. The result revealed that the application of different levels of N + NPSB blended fertilizers had a significant effect on the agronomic efficiency of tef. The highest agronomic efficiency (13.7 kg kg −1 ) was observed from application rates of 23 kg N + 150 kg NPSB from the Kora variety, whereas the lowest agronomic efficiency (3.43) was observed at an application rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB ha⁻¹ Table 7: Effect of Varieties and N + NPSB fertilizer levels on Agronomic Efficiency of tef Tef Varieties N + NPSB (Kg ha -1 ) Nutrient applied (kg ha -1 ) Grain yield (kg ha -1 ) ANUE (kg kg -1 ) Guduru 0+0 0.00 745.9 0.00 46+100 88.64 1635.0 10.03 11.5+100 54.04 1377.1 11.68 23+150 86.80 1738.6 11.44 34.5+200 119.58 1939.5 9.98 46+250 152.34 1640.1 5.87 Mean 8.16 Kora 0+0 0.00 978.6 0.00 46+100 88.64 1832.8 9.64 11.5+100 54.04 1473.4 9.16 23+150 86.80 2171.6 13.7 34.5+200 119.58 2565.4 13.3 46+250 152.34 2383.4 9.22 Mean 9.00 Local 0+0 0.00 704.9 0.00 46+100 88.64 1076.5 4.19 11.5+100 54.04 890.2 3.43 23+150 86.80 1257.8 6.37 34.5+200 119.58 1482.4 6.50 46+250 152.34 1257.8 3.63 Mean 4.02 from Local variety (Table 7). This is because at increasing levels of fertilizer agronomic efficiency was decreased. Similar to this finding, Raun and Johnson [89] stated that with increasing fertilizer, there was a much larger average decline in agronomic efficiency. With this finding in line, Jones et al . [90] were stated matching appropriate essential macronutrients and micronutrients with crop nutrient uptake could optimize nutrient use efficiency and crop yield. 4.6. Partial budget analysis As indicated in Table 8, the partial budget analysis revealed that the highest net benefit, 93,447.45 Birr ha-1, with a marginal rate of return of 1082.4% and a value-to-cost ratio of 18 ETB per unit of investment, was obtained from a combination of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer ha -1 and the Kora variety. However, the lowest net benefit, 25,159.25 Birr ha-1, was obtained from the local variety without the application of N + NPSB fertilizer rates ha -1 (Table 8). Thus, applications of 34.5 N kg + 200 kg NPSB rate are economically beneficial as compared to the other treatments in the study area because the highest net benefit and the marginal rate of return were above the minimum level (100%). Table 8: Partial budget analysis for combined use of N + NPSB fertilizer rates and tef varieties on straw and grain yield of tef Variety N+NPSB (ha -1 ) AGY (kg ha -1 ) ASY (kg ha -1 ) TGB (Birr ha -1 ) TVC (Birr ha -1 ) NB (Birr ha -1 ) MRR (%) Guduru 0+0 671.3 2,679.90 32,209.15 900 31,309.15 - 46+100 1,471.5 3,639.40 65,015.50 4,305 60,710.50 863.5 11.5+100 1,239.4 3,398.30 55,592.95 3,150 52,442.95 D 23+150 1,564.7 3,735.50 68,797.35 4,322 64,475.35 1,029.3 34.5+200 1,745.6 3,838.50 75,929.05 5,491 70,438.05 510.1 46+250 1,476.1 3,966.00 66,006.80 6,660 59,346.80 D Kora 0+0 880.7 2,690.30 40,192.35 900 39,292.35 - 46+100 1,649.5 4,029.20 72,754.00 4,305 68,449.00 856.3 11.5+100 1,326.1 3,642.80 59,498.80 3,150 56,348.80 D 23+150 1,954.4 4,339.50 85,115.95 4,322 80,793.95 2,085.8 34.5+200 2,308.9 4,480.10 98,938.45 5,491 93,447.45 1,082.4 46+250 2,145.1 4,789.50 93,487.55 6,660 86,827.55 D Local 0+0 634.4 2,630.90 25,609.25 450 25,159.25 - 46+100 968.9 2,864.30 36,227.75 3,855 32,372.75 211.9 11.5+100 801.2 2,842.70 31,142.75 2,700 28,442.75 D 23+150 1,132.0 3,085.30 41,673.25 3,872 37,801.25 798.5 34.5+200 1,334.2 3,398.10 48,521.25 5,041 43,480.25 485.8 46+250 1,132.0 3,269.00 42,132.50 6,210 35,922.50 D Where, AGY= Adjusted grain yield, ASY=Adjusted straw yield, TGB=Total gross benefit, TVC=Total variable cost, NB=Net benefit, MRR (%) =Marginal rate of return, D= Dominated treatment 5. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS Tef is the only member of the cereal crop family among the around 350 species in the genus Eragrostis and tribe Eragrostidae. The Poaceae family of grasses includes the C4 self-pollinating annual grass known as tef (Eragrostis tef/Zucc./Trotter), which reaches a height of 40 to 80 cm. However, due to low soil fertility, inadequate fertilizer use, weeds, irregular rainfall distribution, a lack of high-yielding cultivars, improper management techniques, and lodging, both the national average and the study area yield of tef are extremely low. The two main problems limiting production are inadequate soil fertility and the absence of high-yielding enhanced tef cultivars. This study's goal was to assess how N and NPSB fertilizer affected the tef varieties' growth, yield, and yield components in the Gechi District, South West Ethiopia. The field experiment was set as 3*6 factorial arrangements in a RCBD with three replications. The result showed that the main effect of N + NPSB rate and, tef variety had a significant effect on 50% days of flowering, days to 90% physiological maturity and harvesting index of tef. Besides of this, the result indicated that the main effect of N + NPSB rates, varieties and their interaction had a significant effect on plant height, panicle length, total number of tillers and productive tillers pant − 1 , lodging percentage, grain yield, straw yield, total above ground dry biomass yield, and thousand seed weight. The highest plant height 123.08cm, panicle length 46.6 cm, and total number of tillers plant − 1 9.9 were recorded from Kora variety at rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha − 1 , but the highest grain yield of 2565.4 kg ha − 1 , productive tillers plant − 1 of 8.7 and TSW of 0.308 g were recorded from Kora variety at application rate of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha − 1 . Similarly, the economic analysis showed that the highest net benefit of 93,447.45birr ha − 1 with marginal rate of return of 1082.4% was obtained from Kora variety with application of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha − 1 , while the lowest net benefit of 25,159.25 birr ha − 1 with lowest marginal rate of return was obtained from Local variety with nil fertilizer application rate ha − 1 . The highest AE was recorded from Kora variety with application rate of 23/150 kg N/NPSB fertilizer ha − 1 , while the lowest was from Local variety with application rate of 11.5/100 kg NPSB ha − 1 . However, since the data is conducted only for one season and one location so, for providing sound recommendation worth repeating the experiment across different seasons and locations using different N + NPSB fertilizer rates and different tef varieties was very crucial. Abbreviations pH : Power of hydrogen NPSB: Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Sulfur, Boron blended fertilizer CEC: Cation exchange capacity ANOVA: Analysis of variance RCBD: Randomized complete block design CIMMYT :International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center EIAR: Ethiopian Institute Agricultural Research CSA: Central Statistical Agency CV: Coefficient of variation LSD: List significance difference Declarations Funding Not applicable. Data availability All data generated or analysed during the study are included in this manuscript and supplementary materials Declarations Ethics approval and consent to participate Not applicable Competing interests The authors declare there was no competing of interests. Author contributions Adisu Akalu develop the research concept note, wrote the draft manuscript and interpretation of the result. 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International Journal of Plant, Animal and Environmental Science, 6(11), 2224– 3186. Melesse Harfe. 2007. Response of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties to N and P fertilizer rates in Ofla district, Southern Tigray, Ethiopia. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 12(19): 1646-1660. Hurder K .L. 2012. MSc thesis on nitrogen rate and source effects on biomass yield of tef grown for livestock feed in the mid-Atlantic Region. Crop and soil departments. Woubshet D., Selamyihun K. and Cherukuri V. (2017). Effect of integrated use of lime, blended fertilizer, and compost on productivity, nutrient removal and economics of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) on acid soils of high lands in West Showa Zone of Ethiopia. Int. J. of Life Sciences, 2017, Vol. 5 (3): 311-322. Cassman, K.G., Dobermann, A., Walters, D.T. and Yang, H., 2003. Meeting cereal demand while protecting natural resources and improving environmental quality. Annual Review of Environment and Resources , 28 (1), pp.315-358. Muhammed T,Asefa T,Tajamol H,wasoya A (2009) Yield response of wheat to Boron application.PakJ Life Soc Sci 7(1):39-42. Ashraf, M.A., A. Ghafoor, N.A. Khan and M. Yousaf. 1999. Path coefficient in wheat under rain fed conditions. Pakistan J. Agric. Res., 17:1-6. Kaleem, S., Ansarm Ali M., Sher A. and Rashid M., 2009. Effect of Phosphorus on the Yield an Yield Components of Wheat Variety Inqlab-91 under Rainfed Conditions SarhadJournal of Agriculture , 25(1): 1989–1992. Gebrekidan,LH.,Gebreslase S.M and Hiluf.M.H.,2015.Effect of Blended Fertilizer Application on Teff( Eragrostis tef [Zucc./Toller) and Yield, Yield Components and Nutrients uptake by grain Grown on retools and Vertisols. North Ethiopia. Journal of Natural science research, (21 );13-22 Al-Abdulsalam, M.A., 1997. Influence of nitrogen fertilization rates and residual effect of organic manure rates on the growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Arab Gulf Journal of Scientific Research, 15(3), pp.647-660. Debnath, M.R., Jahiruddin, M., Rahman, M.M. and Haque, M.A., 2011. Determining optimum rate of boron application for higher yield of wheat in Old Brahmaputra Floodplain soil. Journal of the Bangladesh Agricultural University , 9 (2), pp.205-210. Tahir, M., Tanveer, A., Shah, T.H., Fiaz, N. and Wasaya, A., 2009. Yield response of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to boron application at different growth stages. Pak. J. Life Soc. Sci , 7 (1), pp.39-42. Shahryari, R. and Mollasadeghi, V., 2011. Increasing of wheat grain yield by use of a humic fertilizer. Adv. Environ. Biol , 5 (3), pp.516-518. Berhe, T., Girmay, G. and Kidanemariam, A., 2020. Validation of blended NPSB fertilizer rates on yield, yield components of Teff [Eragrostis tef (Zuccagni) Trotter] at vertisols of Hatsebo, Central Tigray, Ethiopia. Journal of Soil Science and Environmental Management , 11 (2), pp.75-86. Gebrekidan, H. and Seyoum, M., 2006. Effects of mineral N and P fertilizers on yield and yield components of flooded lowland rice on vertisols of Fogera Plain, Ethiopia. Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS) , 107 (2), pp.161-176. Tagesse A. and Alemayehu A. 2020. Effect of blended nps fertilizer supplemented with nitrogen on yield components and yield of maize (zea mays l.) In kachabirra district, kembata tambaro zone, southern Ethiopia. International Journal of Research in Agricultural Sciences Volume 7, Issue 3, ISSN (Online): 2348 – 3997. Mengel, K. and Kirkby, E. A. 1996. Principles of Plant Nutrition, Panimo Publishing Corporation, New Delhi, India Raun, W.R. and Johnson, G.V. (1999) Improving nitrogen use efficiency for cereal production. Agronomy Journal, 91: 357–363. Johnson, G.V. and Raun, W.R. (2003) Nitrogen response index as a guide to fertilizer management. Journal of Plant Nutrition, 26: 249–262. Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-6546186","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":467705143,"identity":"f2d893b0-804a-4c34-a22a-01f7ffd85935","order_by":0,"name":"Adisu Akalu","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Adisu","middleName":"","lastName":"Akalu","suffix":""},{"id":467705144,"identity":"02135ed1-7952-4ed5-8c66-a68a6cefe9dd","order_by":1,"name":"Solomon Tulu","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Solomon","middleName":"","lastName":"Tulu","suffix":""},{"id":467705145,"identity":"44e260b1-a224-4e7a-a96e-4b6648675596","order_by":2,"name":"Amsalu Nebiyu","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Amsalu","middleName":"","lastName":"Nebiyu","suffix":""},{"id":467705146,"identity":"a492ba3f-12cb-4008-97b7-8106e89a953d","order_by":3,"name":"Garome Shifaraw","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAABBklEQVRIiWNgGAWjYDACCcaGD0hcGyBmbDxAQEvjDCRuGkhLAwEtDIzIWg6DSbxa5Gc3Nzb83GOXON/97MNHNyrO261tPwy0pcYmGpcWgzsHGxt7niUnbjyTbmycc+Z28rYziUAtx9JyG3BpkUhsf8BzgDl3Y0Mam3Ru2+1kswNALYwNh3FqkZ+R2Nj450B97sb+Z0At/84lm51/iF8Lw43ExmaeA4dz50uAbGk4YGd2g4AtBiAtMgeO12+QeMZsnHMsOcHsBtCWBDx+kZ+R/rDxzYFqY/n+NMbHOTV29mbn0x8++FBjg9thcOsOQOhEsMoEQsrB1kENtSdG8SgYBaNgFIwsAAB/22wY+NmEegAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==","orcid":"","institution":"","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Garome","middleName":"","lastName":"Shifaraw","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2025-04-28 09:23:32","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6546186/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-6546186/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":84232546,"identity":"228fba04-1932-42ef-be19-138a08f8d5b4","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-06-09 14:11:21","extension":"png","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":379698,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eMap of the study area\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6546186/v1/ad0c10aaac86e3f2fe706154.png"},{"id":86663022,"identity":"f97ec3cb-f7cc-45c5-8a06-22c9ca106abb","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-07-14 10:47:24","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":2557635,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6546186/v1/8d53122b-5115-4a95-b31e-decb7263a964.pdf"},{"id":84232550,"identity":"2225a1cc-9e33-4b10-97c4-dd330ff20e7f","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-06-09 14:11:21","extension":"docx","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":21435,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"SupplementaryAA.docx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6546186/v1/b95d5819308f05744007f80e.docx"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Effect of N and NPSB Fertilizer Rates on Growth, Yield and Yield Components of tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.)Trotter) Varieties in Gechi District, Southwestern Ethiopia","fulltext":[{"header":"1. INTRODUCTION","content":"\u003cp\u003eTef \u003cem\u003e[Eragrostis tef (Zucc) Trotter]\u003c/em\u003e is a cereal crop that belongs to the family Poaceae, subfamily \u003cem\u003eEragrostidae\u003c/em\u003e, tribe \u003cem\u003eEragrosteae\u003c/em\u003e and genus \u003cem\u003eEragrostis\u003c/em\u003e, which includes approximately 350 species. Tef (\u003cem\u003eEragrostis tef\u003c/em\u003e /Zucc./Trotter) is a C4, self-pollinated and warm season annual grass that grows 40\u0026ndash;80 cm tall [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e]. It is thought to have originated between 4000 and 1000 BC in Ethiopia [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTef is adaptable to a wide range of ecological conditions at altitudes ranging from near sea level to 3000 m.a.s.l., and it could even be grown in an environment too harsh for most cereals, with the best performance occurring in Ethiopia between 1100 and 2950 m.a.s.l [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e].It is widely grown in a temperature range of 10\u0026ndash;27\u0026deg;C is most suitable to avoid frost, annual rainfall of 750\u0026ndash;850 mm and also mainly cultivated on sandy loam to black clay soils [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e]. The tef crop responds well to warm temperatures and can be grown in areas experiencing moisture stress as well as in waterlogged areas [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTef has cultural and economic significance for Ethiopian farmers, with over seven million households relying on tef production ([\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e]. It is a daily staple food for approximately 57.2\u0026nbsp;million Ethiopians, accounting for more than 64% of the country's total population [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e]. Tef has a higher food value than the major grains, such as wheat, barley, and maize. This makes first in nutritional value than any other cereals in the country [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e]. Tef is popular food in the national diet of the majority of Ethiopians chiefly for making \u003cem\u003einjera\u003c/em\u003e. In addition to these, tef is used in preparation of local alcoholic drinks such as \u003cem\u003etela\u003c/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003ekatikala\u003c/em\u003e, as well as \u003cem\u003eporridge\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e]. Nutritionally, tef grain is rich in minerals and is an excellent source of protein, amino acids and carbohydrate. Tef is also being gluten-free, and is therefore considered as an admirable solution for the increasing gluten-sensitive population worldwide [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e]. The farmers highly valued the straw of tef and used as a vital source of animal feed, especially during the dry season. Farmers feed tef straw preferentially to lactating cows and working oxen. Cattle choose tef straw over other cereal straw and for this motive, its price is greater than that of other cereal crops and also used to reinforce mud and plaster for the walls of the house and local grain storage facilities called \u0026ldquo;\u003cem\u003eGotera\u0026rdquo;\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e]. International demand for tef is also growing due to its high nutritional value and its potential as water efficient fodder for livestock.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTef covers the largest agricultural area of the country than any other types of grain, but its productivity is very low [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e].Currently, in Ethiopia tef is cultivated in an area of about 3.1\u0026nbsp;million ha of land [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e]. Tef and maize taking up about 24% and 17% of the total grain crop area, respectively [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e]. This makes tef the first among cereals in the country in area coverage. However, out of the total cereal grain produced, maize and tef accounted for 28.7% (9.6\u0026nbsp;million tons) and 17.7% (5.7\u0026nbsp;million tons), respectively, and the average national yield of tef is only 1.85 ton ha-1 in 2020 main cropping season [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e] which is very low as compared with tef yield produced at research station 2.53 to 3.2 tons ha-1 and its yield potential of 6 tons ha-1 [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e]. The Oromia Regional State is suitable for tef production in Ethiopia. In the region, among the total land area of 4.9\u0026nbsp;million hectares planted by cereals, tef covered 1.48\u0026nbsp;million hectares, which is 30% of the production area covered by all cereals grown in the region. Among all the crops grown in the region, tef is the first major crop in area coverage [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e].In the study area, tef is one of the dominant cereal crop produced for the purpose of both home consumption and income generation. In the study area, about 7,796 hectares were covered by tef, which occupies about 37.5% in terms of area coverage by cereals in 2020 main cropping season. However, its production and productivity is 13, 097.3 tons and 1.68 tons ha\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e respectively. These figures indicated that the productivity of tef is very low as compared to the potential yield of the crop in the study area.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn spite of its tremendous importance, tef production in the country, region as well as in the study area has faced immense production constraints such as a low soil fertility and suboptimal use of fertilizers, weeds, and erratic rainfall distribution, lack of high yielding cultivars, lack of appropriate management practices, and lodging [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e]. Among these, soil fertility problems and lack of high yielding cultivars are one of the main factors that severely reduce the yield of tef [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e]. Recently acquired soil inventory data revealed that the deficiencies of most of nutrients such as, nitrogen (86%), phosphorus (99%), sulfur (92%), boron (65%) and zinc (53%) are widespread in Ethiopian soils [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e]. Of these nutrients, the study area is deficient to nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur and also boron due to poor soil fertility caused by topography, soil erosion, deforestation, population pressure, continuous cultivation of major stable crops for a long period of time, low fertilizer use and inadequate organic matter application. Besides to these, majority of the Ethiopians farmers largely depend on two fertilizers types alone to supplement unbalanced and sub-optimal fertilization of Ethiopian soils by DAP and Urea (P and N containing fertilizer) for a long period of time has led to severe soil nutrient depletion [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e]. Those plant nutrient deficiencies are forced to the use of new brand of blended mineral fertilizers which contains both macro and micronutrients [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eHowever, the amount of N in the blended NPSB fertilizer is insignificant in comparison to the tef nitrogen requirement. The nutrient requirement of tef is 40 kg N and 26 kg P on Nitisols soil type [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e]. As result, there is a needed to test the NPSB fertilizer by supplementing it with N, which is used as a source of N fertilizer, in order to fulfill nutrient requirement of tef. Likewise, improved varieties are basic and essential agricultural inputs because; it is a key component of agricultural productivity, food security for human sustenance and sustainable economic. Almost all farmers in the study area used the low yielding local variety called \"\u003cem\u003eGerawo\u003c/em\u003e\" rather than improved tef varieties, which contributed to declined production and productivity of tef.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePrevious studies showed that several studies were conducted by various researchers in different organizations to explore fertility status of Ethiopian soils and concluded that, N and P nutrients were the only limiting nutrients in most Ethiopian soils [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e]. Subsequently, crop response experiments to fertilizers conducted on-stations and on-farmers\u0026rsquo; fields revealed that applications of these inputs have appreciably improved the yields of crops and thus the use of N and P fertilizers by farmers have been recommended. Application of fertilizers containing N and P [Urea and Diammonium phosphate (DAP)] as a blanket recommendation [(100 kg DAP (18-46-0) and 100 kg Urea (46-0-0)] began in the late 1960s [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e] to improve the productivity of the soil. Those blanket recommendation brought generally, an increase in yield of improved varieties ranging from 1700 to 2200 kg ha [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e]. However, this blanket fertilizer recommendation failed to take into consideration differences in resource endowment such as soil type, labor capacity and climate risk or make allowances for dramatic changes in input/output price ratio, thereby discouraging farmers from fertilizer application. Moreover, the nutrients in the blanket recommendation are not well balanced for agronomic improvement and its continued use gradually exhausted soil organic matter.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo overwhelm the soil fertility and crop productivity problems, the use of site, soil and crop specific fertilizer recommendations very crucial [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e22\u003c/span\u003e]. While few studies have been conducted to overcome micronutrient deficiency problems in the study area [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e]. Information on the use of appropriate type of blended fertilizers in relation to crop productivity and soil physico-chemical properties remains to be limited in Gechi district, South western Ethiopia. Hence, addressing soil nutrient deficiencies is essential to improve the growth and yield of tef in the study area. It is also quite important to address plant nutrient deficiency with respect to tef varieties, economic benefits and agro-ecologies. The present study was, therefore initiated with the following objectives:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eGeneral objective\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo evaluate the effect of N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;NPSB fertilizer rates on growth, yield and yield components of tef varieties at Gechi District Southwestern Ethiopia.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eSpecific objectives\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo determine the optimum level of N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;NPSB fertilizer rates on growth, yield and yield components of tef varieties.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo identify the economically feasible level of N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;NPSB fertilizer for tef production in the study area.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2. MATERIALS AND METHODS","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.1. Description of the study area\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eDuring the 2020 main cropping season, the experiment was carried out on a farmer's field in Gito Kebele, Gechi District, Buno Bedele Zone, Oromia Regional National State.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGeographically, the experimental site is located at 08\u0026deg; 18\u0026rsquo;39\u0026rsquo;\u0026rsquo;N latitude and 36\u0026deg; 26\u0026rsquo;29\u0026rsquo;\u0026rsquo;E longitude, at an altitude of 2132 m.a.s.l (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). The experimental site receives an average annual rainfall and temperature of 1850 mm and 21\u003csup\u003eo\u003c/sup\u003eC respectively during the main cropping season. The soil type of the site is Nitisols with a pH of 5.9 which is moderately acidic. The experimental site was under wheat cultivation during the previous growing season. Tef, maize, sorghum, wheat, and finger millet were the main crops cultivated in the regions. Both the crops and the region have been farmed for a very long time.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.2. Experimental materials\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eTwo improved tef varieties, namely Dz-01-1880 (Guduru) and Dz-cross-438 (Kora), and one Local variety (Gerawo) were used for the experiment. Two improved varieties of tef were obtained from the Bako Agricultural Research Center. But, the remaining local variety is obtained from the selected farmer living around experimental area. These varieties were selected on the basis of their good adaptability and high yielding potential of the tef crop (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDescriptions of the tef varieties used for the experiment\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"7\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eName\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYear of release\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMaturity\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAltitude m.a.s.l\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eProductivity (t ha\u003csup\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u0026minus;\u003c/em\u003e\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e) under rainfed\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOn farmer\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAt research\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDz-01-1880(Guduru)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2006\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e132\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1850\u0026ndash;2500\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.4-2.0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.5\u0026ndash;2.3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDz-cross-438 (Kora)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2014\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e110\u0026ndash;117\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1650\u0026ndash;2400\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.8\u0026ndash;2.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.5\u0026ndash;2.8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocal variety(Gerawo)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e90\u0026ndash;105\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec5\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.3. Treatments and experimental design\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe treatment included three varieties and six levels of combined N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;NPSB fertilizer rates (0 kg N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;0 kg NPSB, 46 kg N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;100 kg NPSB, 11.5 kg N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;100 kg NPSB, 23 kg N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;150 kg NPSB, 34.5 kg N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;200 kg NPSB, and 46 kg N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;250 kg NPSB).In the study area the recommended rate of N and NPSB fertilizers were 46 kg N and 100kg NPSB fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e. The treatment set up was done on the basis of pre planting laboratory soil analysis for the purposes of identifying optimum rate of fertilizer rate and high yielding cultivars for the study area. The study was set up using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications and 6*3 factorial configurations.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec6\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4. Experimental procedures and crop management\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eA field layout was created in compliance with the design specifications.. The total experimental area was 10m x 45.5m (455m2).The size of each gross and net experimental plot were 2m x 2m (4m2) and 1.6mx 1.6m (2.56m2). The blocks were separated by 1.0 m wide open spaces, whereas the plots within a block were 0.5 m apart from each other. Seeds were sown at a rate of 15 kg ha-1 rows of 20 cm spacing manually by drilling 2020 main cropping season. Each plot therefore had ten rows. This means 1/3 of N was applied after two weeks or after emergence and 2/3 of the rest N was applied before booting in all plots except the control. The outermost two rows from each side of a plot and 0.4 m on both ends of each row were considered as border and were not included in recorded data. Weeds were removed by hand when required. All other recommended cultural practices (site selection, land preparation, sowing, weeding, etc.) for the test crop were done as per the recommendation to the area.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec7\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.5. Pre-planting soil sampling for laboratory analysis\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eSoil samples (0\u0026ndash;20 cm depth) were collected from the experimental field by Auger sampler using W-shaped pattern from the whole experimental plots for the purpose of obtaining a good representative sample from the whole field and composited into one sample before sowing the crop and bulked. After being air dried and pounded with a pestle and mortar, the samples were permitted to flow through a 2 mm sieve. Analyzed for selected physico-chemical properties mainly texture (Particle size), soil pH, cation exchangeable capacity (CEC), organic carbon, total N available P, S, and B at Bedele Soil Laboratory Research Center. Particle size distribution was determined using the Bouyoucos hydrometer method ([\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e]. Organic carbon was determined by Walkley and Black oxidation method ([\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e]. Total nitrogen was analyzed by Kjeldhal method [26]. The pH of the soil was determined at 1:2.5 (weight/ volume) soil to water dilution ratio using a glass electrode attached to a digital pH meter [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e27\u003c/span\u003e]. Cation exchange capacity was measured after saturating the soil with 1N ammonium acetate (NH4OAC) and displacing it with 1N NaOAC [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e28\u003c/span\u003e]. The Olsen method was used to determine the amount of phosphorus that was available [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e29\u003c/span\u003e]. KH2PO4 extraction was used to calculate the amount of available S[30]. Available B was determined using the hot water method [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e31\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.6. Data collection and measurements\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec9\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.6.1. Crop Phonological parameters\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003ePhonological data like Days to 50% flowering (DF), Days to 90% physiological maturity (DPM) was collected which determined by visual observation.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.6.2. Growth parameters\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eGrowth related parameters like Plant height (PHT), Panicle length (PL), Total number of tillers plant\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e (TNT), Number of productive tillers plant\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e (NPT) were collect on plant base or plot base. \u003cb\u003eLodging percentage (LP)\u003c/b\u003e: Visual observation was used to determine the degree of lodging shortly before harvest. The scales were as follows: zero (0\u0026ndash;15o) denoted no lodging, one (15\u0026ndash;30o) 25% lodging, two (30\u0026ndash;45o) 50% lodging, three (45\u0026ndash;60o) 75% lodging, and four (60\u0026ndash;90o) 100% lodging (Donald, 2004).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.6.3. Yield and Yield Components\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eYield related data like Total above ground dry biomass yield (TAGDBY), 1000 seed weight (TSW), Grain yield (GY) were collected from plot area of (2.56 m\u003csup\u003e2\u003c/sup\u003e) and converted into kg ha\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e. Grains were cleaned following harvesting and threshing, weighed using electronic balance, and adjusted to 12.5% moisture content using the following formula [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e32\u003c/span\u003e]\u003cdiv id=\"Equa\" class=\"Equation\"\u003e\u003cdiv format=\"TEX\" class=\"mathdisplay\" id=\"FileID_Equa\" name=\"EquationSource\"\u003e\n$$\\:\\text{G}\\text{r}\\text{a}\\text{i}\\text{n}\\:\\text{y}\\text{i}\\text{e}\\text{l}\\text{d}\\:(\\text{k}\\text{g}/\\text{h}\\text{a})=\\text{Y}\\text{i}\\text{e}\\text{l}\\text{d}\\:\\text{o}\\text{b}\\text{t}\\text{a}\\text{i}\\text{n}\\text{e}\\text{d}\\:(\\text{k}\\text{g}/\\text{h}\\text{a})*\\frac{100-\\%\\:actual\\:moisture\\:content}{100-12.5}$$\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eHarvest index (HI)\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eharvest index was calculated by dividing grain yield by the total aboveground biomass yield.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Equb\" class=\"Equation\"\u003e \u003cdiv format=\"TEX\" class=\"mathdisplay\" id=\"FileID_Equb\" name=\"EquationSource\"\u003e\n$$\\:\\text{H}\\text{a}\\text{r}\\text{v}\\text{e}\\text{s}\\text{t}\\:\\text{i}\\text{n}\\text{d}\\text{e}\\text{x}\\left(\\text{%}\\right)=\\frac{Grain\\:yield\\:per\\:plot}{Above\\:ground\\:dry\\:biomass\\:per\\:plot}*100$$\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eAgronomic efficiency (kg kg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eIt is defined as the economic production obtained per unit of fertilizer applied and was calculated as\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Equc\" class=\"Equation\"\u003e \u003cdiv format=\"TEX\" class=\"mathdisplay\" id=\"FileID_Equc\" name=\"EquationSource\"\u003e\n$$\\:\\text{A}\\text{E}\\:(\\:\\text{k}\\text{g}/\\text{h}\\text{a})=1+\\frac{Gf\\left(kg)-Gu\\right)\\left(\\text{k}\\text{g}\\right)}{Na\\left(kg\\right)}$$\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhere, AE stands for agronomic efficiency, Gf and Gu for grain yield in fertilized and unfertilized plots, respectively, and Na for quantity of fertilizer applied.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.7. Statistical Analysis\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe data was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) as per the design used in the experiment using statistical analysis software version 9.3 [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR31\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e33\u003c/span\u003e] and interpretation were made following the procedure of [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR32\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e34\u003c/span\u003e]. Mean separation was conducted using the least significant difference test (LSD) to evaluate the different N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;NPSB fertilizer levels on tef varieties on Nitisols at 5% level of significance. Pearson correlation coefficient analysis was performed to determine the relations between phenological, growth parameter and yield and yield components as influenced by N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;NPSB fertilizer application rates. For the analysis, the ANOVA model was:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe linear additive model (L.A.M.) is as follows: Xikj\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;\u0026micro;\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;Ai\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;Bj + (AB) ij\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;Rk\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;Eijk, where Xijk is the ith level of factor A and the jth level of factor B in the kth block; \u0026micro; is the overall mean; Ai is the effect of N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;NPSB blended fertilizer; Bj is the effect of tef variety; (AB) ij is the interaction effect of N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;NPSB blended fertilizer and tef variety; Rk is the block's effect, In the kth block, Eijk is the error term linked to the ith level of factor A, the jth level of factor B, and (AB)ij.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.8. Partial budget analysis\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAccording to the partial budget analysis, the profitability of N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;blended NPSB fertilizers ha\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e with the three tef varieties was illustrated in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab8\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e. The average labor cost for fertilizer application, the local market cost for fertilizer and seed cost at sowing time, and for tef grain and straw yield at the time the crop was harvested. Thus, prices for tef grain (i.e. local variety\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;30 Birr kg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e and for Guduru and Kora variety\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;38 Birr kg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e) and straw yield of the three variety are the same\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;2.5 Birr kg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e). The cost of N and NPSB fertilizer were 15.40 and 15.68 Birr kg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e respectively, and the seed cost of two improve variety is the same 60 Birr kg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e, but the cost of local variety is low\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;30 Birr kg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e Labor cost for fertilizer application was estimated to be 2 person-days per one application time; each person day costing 50 Birr. Identify the economic optimum rate and economic analysis (dominance and the marginal rate of return) was done using the CIMMYT [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR33\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e35\u003c/span\u003e] partial budget methodology. The average grain and straw yields were adjusted downward by 10% to approximate yields farmers get [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR33\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e35\u003c/span\u003e]. Dominance analysis was used to screen treatments which have a higher variable cost and lower net return and dominated treatments were removed from further consideration. A treatment having a marginal rate of return (MRR) greater or equal to 100% is said to be economically profitable.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTef yields were adjusted downwards by 10% to more closely approximate yields. The cost benefit analysis was calculated as follows: TCV\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;the sum of cost input (labor\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;seed\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;N and NPSB fertilizer), AGY\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;grain yield x 10/100; GB\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;adjusted grain yield x variable cost of grain yield (price of yield), NB\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;gross benefit-total variable cost, MRR% = change of net benefit divided to change of total variable cost x 100.\u003cdiv id=\"Equd\" class=\"Equation\"\u003e\u003cdiv format=\"TEX\" class=\"mathdisplay\" id=\"FileID_Equd\" name=\"EquationSource\"\u003e\n$$\\:\\text{M}\\text{R}\\text{R}\\:\\left(\\text{b}\\text{e}\\text{t}\\text{w}\\text{e}\\text{e}\\text{n}\\:\\text{t}\\text{r}\\text{e}\\text{a}\\text{t}\\text{m}\\text{e}\\text{n}\\text{t},\\:\\text{a}\\:\\\u0026amp;\\:\\text{b}\\right)=\\frac{Change\\:in\\:NBa}{Change\\:in\\:TVC\\left(TVCb-TVCa\\right)}*100$$\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION","content":"\u003ch3\u003e4.1. Selected Physicochemical Properties of Experimental Soil before Sowing\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe soil texture of the experimental area was 15.20% sand, 29.50% silt and 55.30% clay showed in Table 2. The properties of soil texture affect water holding capacity, water intake rate, aeration, root penetration, and the fertility status of the soil. The Soil pH the soil, with 5.9 values was categorized as moderately acidic Nitisols as indicated in Table 2. Cation Exchange Capacity: is an important parameter of soil, because it gives an indication of the type of clay minerals present in the soil, soil texture, organic matter content of the soil and its capacity to retain nutrients against leaching [36]. The CEC of the site was 34.21cmol/kg as indicated in Table 2.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eOrganic carbon:\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eAccordingly the result obtained from soil laboratory indicated that, the value of OC was in medium range. According to Boix \u003cem\u003eet al\u003c/em\u003e.[37] showed that a threshold of 3-3.5% soil organic carbon had to be attained to achieve increases in aggregate stability; no effects on aggregate stability were observed in soils below this threshold. \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eTotal Nitrogen:\u003c/em\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eThe total nitrogen content of the experimental soil was measured at 0.124% (see Table 2). The experimental site can be classified in low range. The optimum N level needed for crop production under most soils of Ethiopia is reported to be \u0026lt;0.2 % according to [16]. The low nitrogen content in the soil may be attributed to inadequate vegetation cover, frequent land cultivation, and limited crop residue returned to the fields.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eAvailable Phosphorus:\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eThe range of phosphorus in the Bray technique is \u0026lt;7, 8-19, 20-39, 40-58, and \u0026gt;59, which correspond to very low, low, medium, high, and very high levels, respectively, according to Bray [38]. This indicates that the research area\u0026apos;s phosphorus availability is extremely low and that phosphorous fertilizer has to be applied.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u0026nbsp;Available Sulfur:\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eAvailable sulfur value of the study area was 7.04 ppm (Table 3). The reported soil categorization for sulfur values falls into the very low range, according to EthioSIS [16]. \u0026quot;\u0026lt; 9 very low,\u0026quot; \u0026quot;10-20 low,\u0026quot; \u0026quot;20-80 optimum,\u0026quot; and \u0026quot;\u0026gt; 80 mg kg-1 high\u0026quot; are the classifications. Therefore, adding sulfur-containing fertilizer is important. Accessible Boron: The research area\u0026apos;s available boron was 0.67 parts per million (Table 2).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the majority of Ethiopian soils, the required B value is 0.8 ppm kg-1 [18]. This indicates that the study area\u0026apos;s soils lack B, indicating the need for fertilizer containing B. The low B concentration of the soil was caused by intensive agriculture and the use of boron-free fertilizers in the region. Generally, the above indicated information is very important for the purpose of determining and adjusting treatment set up to be followed in the experiment and also significant for provision necessary information about the experimental site for the success of future work.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 2:\u003c/strong\u003e Selected physico-chemical properties of the soil of the experimental site before planting\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"703\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 49px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNo.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 210px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil Characters\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eValues \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRating\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 252px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReferences\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 49px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 210px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSand (%)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15.20\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e-\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 252px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 49px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 210px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eClay (%)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55.30\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e-\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 252px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 49px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 210px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSilt (%)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29.50\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e-\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 252px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 49px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 210px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTexture Class\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eClay Loam\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 252px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBouyoucos (1962)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 49px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 210px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003epH(H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.9\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMod/Acidic\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 252px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLondon (1991)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 49px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e3.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 210px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOrganic C (%)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.46\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMedium\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 252px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEthioSIS (2013)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 49px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 210px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal N (%)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.124\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLow\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 252px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEthioSIS (2013)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 49px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e5.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 210px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCEC (meq/100 g of soil)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.21\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHigh\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 252px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHazeton \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026amp; Murphy (2007)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 49px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e6.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 210px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAvailable P (mg kg\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.54\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eVery Low\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 252px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEthioSIS (2013)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 49px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e7.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 210px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSulfur (meq/100 g of soil) \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.04\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eVery Low\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 252px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDung (2003)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 49px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e8.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 210px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOrganic matter (%)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.0\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLow\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 252px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOlsen \u003cem\u003eet al\u003c/em\u003e, (1954)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 49px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e9. \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 210px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAvailable Boron (ppm)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.67\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003elow\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 252px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEthioSIS (20130\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhere pH: power of hydrogen \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"_Toc291963\"\u003e4.2. Effect of N and NPSB fertilizer rates on phenological parameters of tef \u0026nbsp;\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4 id=\"_Toc291964\"\u003e4.2.1. Days to 50 % flowering\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe primary effect of N+ had a substantial \u003cem\u003e(p \u0026lt; 0.05)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003eimpact on the number of days to 50% flowering.\u0026nbsp;NPSB fertilizer rates and types, however, their interaction was not significant (\u003cem\u003ep \u0026gt; 0.05\u003c/em\u003e). The Guduru variety had the longest days to 50% flowering (64 days), whereas the local variety had the shortest days to 50% flowering (52 days) (Table 3). When compared to the Kora and local cultivars, the Guduru variety took two and twelve days longer, respectively, to reach 50% blooming. Tef cultivars\u0026apos; varying days to 50% flowering may be caused by genetic variations as well as how each variety reacts to its environment.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan id=\"_Toc291965\"\u003eThe earliest days to 50% flowering (57 days) were obtained at the application of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha⁻\u0026sup1;, which was statistically comparable to the treatment that received 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB (57 days), 23 kg N + 150 kg NPSB (58 days), and 11.5 kg N + 100 kg NPSB (59.44 days) fertilizer rates ha⁻\u0026sup1;. However, the longest days to 50% flowering (63 days) were obtained from an unfertilized plot, which was statistically similar to 46 kg N + 100 NPSB kg ha-1 and 11.5 kg N + 100 kg NPSB kg ha-1, with mean days to 50% flowering of 61 and 59 days, respectively. At higher rates of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB, 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB, and 23 kg N + 150 kg NPSB fertilizer application rates ha-1, respectively, the number of days to 50% flowering increased by 6, 6, and 5 days. This was demonstrated by the increasing tendency of days to 50% flowering with decreasing rates of N + NPSB fertilizer ha⁻\u0026sup1;. The greater rates of NPSB combined with N fertilizer may be the result of early establishment, rapid crop growth, and development, which could explain the increased days to 50% flowering. Because P has a function that speeds up the growth and development of the crop plant, its application accelerated the days until flowering. Yared \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [40] found that applying N and blended NPS fertilizer accelerated the days to 50% flowering because the tef plants were able to absorb enough nutrients from the soil, which led to early establishment, rapid growth, and development of the crop. This result is consistent with their findings. Assefa [41] claims that the number of days to flowering reduced as the NP level rose. Consequently, the days were prolonged to 50% flowering in the unfertilized plots.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e4.2.2. Days to 90 % physiological maturity\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDays to 90% physiological maturity were considerably \u003cem\u003e(p\u0026lt;0.05)\u003c/em\u003e impacted by the main effect of N + Blended NPSB fertilizer treatments and varieties, while days to physiological maturity were not significantly \u003cem\u003e(p \u0026gt;0.05)\u003c/em\u003e impacted by their interaction. Similar to the days to 50% blooming, the Guduru variety had the highest value for days to 90% physiological maturity (98 days), while the Local variety had the lowest value (86 days) (Table 3). Compared to Kora and local types, the Guduru variety took 5 days (6%), and 12 days (14%), longer, to attain 90% physiological maturity. The genetic differences between the kinds and how each responds to the blended NPSB fertilizer with additional N fertilizer may be the cause of the observed variation in the number of days needed to reach 90% physiological maturity.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the other hand, the highest mean days to 90% physiological maturity (98 days) was obtained from the local variety in the control plots, which was statistically on par with the treatment that received 46 kg N + 100 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha⁻\u0026sup1; (96 days). In contrast to all other treatments, the rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻\u0026sup1; produced the shortest mean days to physiological maturity (85 days). When the amount of N + NPSB fertilizer level increases from an unfertilized plot to a combined application of 46 kg N and 250 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha⁻\u0026sup1;, the number of days to 90% physiological maturity was shown to reduce linearly. Due to this, the control treatment takes longer than the application rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha-1 to reach 90% physiological maturity, which is 13.18 days (15%). The presence of balanced fertilizer in the blended fertilizer may be the cause of the increased maturity following blended fertilizer application. Crops treated with P fertilizer typically show good root development to attain physiological maturity on schedule, while crops fertilized with N fertilizer typically display superior vegetative growth.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrady and Weil [42] showed that phosphorus application could possibly shorten days to physiological maturity; subsequently it promotes rapid cell division. Onasanya \u003cem\u003eet al\u003c/em\u003e. [43] presented that phosphorus plays a significant role in various physiological processes that occur within developing and maturing plants. It is involved in enzymatic reactions in the plant and enhances the maturity time of plants. Sulfur enhanced the formation of chlorophyll and encouraged vegetative growth, and Boron is vital for normal development or growth of new cells [44]. However, a lack of necessary components could be the cause of the physiological maturity delay at control plots. According to Seifu [11] the application of 150 kg NPSB ha⁻\u0026sup1; and 69 kg N ha⁻\u0026sup1; resulted in the shortest days (95) to physiological maturity of tef, whereas the control group produced the longest days (106). According to Tilahun \u003cem\u003eet al\u003c/em\u003e. [45], increasing P2O5 from 50 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; to 100 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; while increasing the compost rate from 0 to 7.5 t ha⁻\u0026sup1; caused a decrease in the number of days to maturity and an increase in rice grain production.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 3\u003c/strong\u003e: The main effect of Varieties and N + NPSB fertilizer rates on phenological traits of tef\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTef varieties\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDays to 50% flowering\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDays to 90% physiological maturity\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuduru\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e64\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e98\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKora \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e62\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e93\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLocal \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e52\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e86\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLSD (5%)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eN + NPSB \u0026nbsp;(Kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0+0 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e63\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e98\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e46+100 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e61\u003csup\u003eab\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003csup\u003eab\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e11.5+100 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e59abc\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e94\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e23+150 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e58\u003csup\u003ebc\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e91\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e34.5+200 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e57\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88\u003csup\u003ed\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e11.5+100 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e57\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e85\u003csup\u003ee\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e11.5+100 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e63\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e98\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e23+150 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e61\u003csup\u003eab\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003csup\u003eab\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e34.5+200 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e59abc\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e94\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLSD (5%)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.82\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 205px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCV (%) \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.74\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 240px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMeans followed by the same letter within a column are not significantly different from each other at 5% level of significance. LSD (0.05) = Least Significant Difference at 5% level, and CV (%) = Coefficient of Variation in percent\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e4.3. Effect of N and NPSB fertilizer rates on growth parameters of tef\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4 id=\"_Toc291967\"\u003e4.3.1. Plant height \u0026nbsp;\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant height was significantly \u003cem\u003e(p \u0026lt; 0.05)\u003c/em\u003e influenced by the main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer rates and varieties as well as by their interaction. The tallest plant height (123.08 cm) was obtained at the rate of 46 kg N + 250 NPSB kg fertilizers ha⁻\u0026sup1; from the Kora variety, which was statistically at par with the treatment that received 200 kg NPSB along with a 34.5 kg N fertilizer rate ha⁻\u0026sup1; (121.3 cm), while the shortest plant height (91.4 cm) was obtained from the control plot of the local variety, but other treatment combinations were statistically similar to 11.5 kg N + 100 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha⁻\u0026sup1; (92.4 cm) and the treatment that received a zero fertilizer application rate ha⁻\u0026sup1; (93.9 cm) along with the Guduru variety (Table 4). Increasing the combined application of NPSB and N from the control plot to 46 kg N + 250 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; with the Kora variety increased plant height by about 28% and 34.6%, compared to the recommended rate of N and NPSB fertilizer and the non-fertilized plot with local varieties, respectively.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fact that N in the blended fertilizer and in supplemental N favors vegetative growth of tef, which results in higher stature of plants through synthesis of macromolecules (proteins, enzymes, pigments, hormones, etc.), as well as the rate of processes like photosynthesis on cell division and cell elongation, and finally internode length, led to a significant increase in plant height with the increasing rate of N + NPSB fertilizer, according to the current result [46].Soil applied with increased rates of N increases internode length, which ultimately results in increased plant height; also, N application enhances the overall vegetative growth of plants [47]. P is used in energy transfer for cellular metabolism, enhancing the growth of roots and shoots of the plant; sulfur enhanced the formation of chlorophyll and encouraged vegetative growth, and boron enhanced the growth of new cells and N absorption [48]. Also, the plant height difference could be arisen from the variability of the genetic makeup of the cultivars response to external environmental conditions. Similar to the present result, Fissehaye \u003cem\u003eet al.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e[49] and Haftom \u003cem\u003eet al.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e[50] found that applying a large amount of nitrogen fertilizer to tef plants encouraged plant height (92 kg N ha⁻\u0026sup1;). [51] also found that using a blended fertilizer with a balanced N content improved maize plant height.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp id=\"_Toc291968\"\u003eIn general, increased combined application of N and blended fertilizer showed a tendency to increment in plant height. In contrast to this result, Adera [52] stated that plant height of tef was not significantly affected by the rate and type of different blended [1] with the kora variety, which increased plant height by about 28 and 34.6% compared to the fertilizers. The lack of significance among the blended fertilizer treatments might be due to the constant amount of nitrogen they use (64 kg N ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e) for all rates and types of treatments in which the increase in nitrogen rate increases the plant height. Bizuwork [53] also reported non-significant main and interaction effects of blended fertilizer rate on plant height of durum wheat.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e4.3.2. Panicle length \u0026nbsp;\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer rates, varieties, and their interaction effect was significant \u003cem\u003e(p \u0026lt; 0.05) and\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003einfluenced panicle length. Similar to plant height, the panicle length also increased with increasing combined application from plots that received zero fertilizer to the highest application rates of blended fertilizer supplemented with N fertilizer ha⁻\u0026sup1;.The tallest mean panicle length (46.6 cm) was recorded at the highest rate of 46 kg N ha⁻\u0026sup1;\u003csup\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003ecombined with 250 kg NPSB ha⁻\u0026sup1; from the Kora variety, which was the only significantly different from all other treatments, although the shortest mean panicle length (34.6 cm) was recorded in the unfertilized plot from the local variety, which was statistically at par with nil application rate of N + NPSB fertilizer ha⁻\u0026sup1;\u003csup\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003efrom the Guduru variety (35.6 cm) (Table 4). Kora variety with an application of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB gave 28% and 34.6% panicle length improvement over the recommended rate of N and NPSB fertilizer and control plots from the local variety, respectively. On the other hand, the significant increment of panicle length treated by N and NPSB fertilizer might be due to the fact that nitrogen is considered one of the major limiting nutrients in plant growth, and the adequate supply of nitrogen promotes the formation of chlorophyll, which in turn results in higher photosynthetic activity, vigorous vegetative growth, and taller panicle lengths. Phosphorus is required in large quantities in shoot and root tips where metabolism is high and cell division is rapid [54].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimilarly, sulfur promotes the formation of chlorophyll, higher photosynthetic activity, vigorous vegetative growth, and taller plants, contributing to the improvement of panicle length. The presence of boron in the blend also significantly increased panicle length due to its important role in cell division and nitrogen absorption from the soil, enhancing the growth of panicle length. Numerous studies have linked the effect of high N and P application on tef yield to the pivotal role of panicle length in grain yield [55]. The tallest plant height contributed to the formation of longer panicle lengths. This was also evident from the observed positive and significant (p \u003cem\u003e\u0026lt; 0.05)\u003c/em\u003e correlation of panicle length with plant height (r = 0.99).\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis finding is consistent with the finding of Haftamu \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [50], who found a positive and highly significant correlation between panicle length and plant height and grain yield. In line with this finding, Adera [52] reported that applying 150 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; of blended NPSKZnB fertilizer in addition to that containing 64 kg⁻\u0026sup1; resulted in longer panicle length. According to Wakjira [56], increasing the application rate of blended fertilizer from 0 to 120 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; significantly increased the panicle length of the tef by about 61.6%. According to the results, Fayera \u003cem\u003eet al\u003c/em\u003e. [57] reported that the longest panicle length (45.60 cm) was obtained from the use of 150 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; blended NPKSZnB with 23 kg N ha⁻\u0026sup1;, while the shortest (30.17 cm) was gained from the control plots.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4.3.3. Total number of tillers per plant\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe total number of tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e was significantly (p \u003cem\u003e\u0026lt; 0.05)\u003c/em\u003e influenced by the main effect of both N + NPSB blended fertilizer and tef varieties and their interaction. The Kora variety produced the highest number of total tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003e(9.9) at the application of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e, which was significantly higher than the effect of other rates, while the minimum total number of tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e (4.2) was attained at the control plot from the local variety, which was also statistically in par with nil application of fertilizers (4.6) from the Guduru variety (Table 4). The total number of tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e was obtained from the Kora variety with 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer application rate ha-1, giving 59.6 and 134% total number of tillers advantage over the recommended rate of N and NPSB fertilizer and control plots with the local variety, respectively. The total number of tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e variably responded to N + NPSB fertilizer rates and varieties.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe highest number of tillers at the highest rates of NPSB supplemented with N could be attributed to the rapid conversion of synthesized carbohydrates into protein, which increased the number and size of growing cells, resulting in a higher number of tillers. In addition to this, nitrogen promotes activities essential for carbohydrate utilization and its most important function in plant promotion of rapid growth through the increasing total number of tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e [47]. It might also be due to the positive role of P found in NPSB, which enhances the development of radicle and seminal roots during seedling establishment, which in turn promotes N uptake and N assimilation by growth points, triggering tillers, which subsequently results in overall plant growth and an increase in TT of plants [58]. Sulfur for the high number of tillering and boron for its higher cell division contributed to an increasing total number of tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e [59]. In line with this result, Brhan [60], who reported that applying a blended fertilizer (69 kg N ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e + 46 kg P2O5 + 22 kg S ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e + 0.3 kg Zn ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e) resulted in a significant increase in total tillers (15 tillers per plant) of tef as compared to 5 tillers plant hormone for cell division.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsistent with this finding, Seifu [11] and Haftamu\u003cem\u003e\u0026nbsp;et al\u003c/em\u003e. [50] reported a significantly higher number of total tillers in response to a high N rate on tef. The current finding is also consistent with the findings of Okubay \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [61], who found that increasing N levels in tef from 0 to 69 kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e resulted in a significant increase in the number of total tillers. Similarly, Wakjira [56] reported that increasing the rate of blended NPS fertilizer from unfertilized plots to 120 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; increased the total number of tillers consistently and significantly. According to Seifu [11], the highest total number of tef tillers was obtained from the application of the highest rate, 150 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1;, of blended (NPSB) fertilizer, while the lowest numbers of tillers were obtained from the control plot.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 id=\"_Toc291970\"\u003e4.3.4. Number of productive tillers per plant\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe number of productive tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e was significantly \u003cem\u003e(p \u0026lt; 0.05)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003einfluenced by the main effect of N + blended NPSB fertilizer rates and varieties. The interaction effect of the N + NPSB and varieties also significantly influenced this parameter. The number of productive tillers is one of the most vital yield-determining components and is directly related to the grain yield of tef. Accordingly, the Kora variety had better performance than Guduru and local varieties in growth, yield, and yield component parameters.\u0026nbsp;The number of productive (fertile) tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e (8.7) was produced from the Kora variety with a combined application of 34.5 kg N and 200 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e, which was statistically similar to the Kora variety (8.5) with a combined application of 46 kg N and 250 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha-1, and also from the Kora variety (8.2) at a rate of 23 kg N + 150 kg NPSB fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e, while the lowest number of productive tillers (4.16) was produced from the control plots from the local variety, which was statistically similar to the Guduru variety (4.4) from the unfertilized plot.(Table 4). The highest number of total tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e was produced at the highest rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e, but due to severe competition among the tillers, it caused a decreasing survival percentage of productive tillers. Due to this reason, the highest productive tillers were recorded from 34.5/200 kg N and NPSB fertilizers ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMoreover, the productive tillers of tef were more enhanced by the application of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e with the Kora variety by 75% and 117% over the recommended rate of N and NPSB fertilizer and the control plot with the local variety, respectively. The enhanced productive tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e at 34.5 kg N + 200 kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e fertilizer rates might be due to optimum supply and availability of balanced nutrients under blended NPSB and N fertilizers. Botella \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [62] reported stimulation of tillers with optimal application of N and blended NPSB fertilizers was attributed to the positive effect of N on cytokinin synthesis, which is an important hormone for cell division and shoot growth. In addition, phosphorus encourages the growth of lateral roots and fibrous rootlets that facilitate nutrient uptake [44], and sulfur facilitates the uptake of other nutrients by the crop and boron for cell division [63].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp id=\"_Toc291971\"\u003eLikewise, Haftamu \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [50] and Tekalign \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [19] found that increasing the N rate on tef resulted in a significantly higher number of tillers. Fayera [57] also discovered that increased light and N availability during the crop\u0026apos;s vegetative growing period improves tillering. The combined application of 46 kg N and 92 kg P ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e produced the much more productive tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e (4.14), which was statistically similar to other combined treatments, while the control treatment produced the fewest (3.18). This could be due to the application of N and P fertilizer, which promotes vigorous vegetative growth. In agreement with the findings of this study, Fayera \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [57] discovered the most productive tef tillers when 200 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; (NPKSZnB) blended (14 N, 21 P₂O₅, 15 K₂O, 6.5 S, 1.3 Zn, and 0.5 B) + 23 kg N ha⁻\u0026sup1; fertilizer was applied.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e4.3.5 Lodging percentage\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLodging is a serious problem in tef production that causes high yield reduction due to the country\u0026apos;s use of high amounts and unbalanced rates of NP fertilizers. It accounts for approximately 11-22% of total grain yield losses on average [11]. The main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer application rates, varieties, and their interaction effect was significantly \u003cem\u003e(p \u0026lt; 0.05)\u003c/em\u003e influenced by the lodging percentage of tef. The highest lodging percentage (52.1%) was obtained from the local variety with a combined application of 46 kg N and 250 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha⁻\u0026sup1;, which was significantly different from other treatments, whereas the lowest lodging percentage (24%) was recorded from the Kora variety at nil fertilizer application rate, which was statistically on par with the lodging percentage (26.7%) obtained from the Guduru variety at the control plot (Table 4). The increase in crop lodging with increased nitrogen fertilizer rate might be due to the profound effect of an excessive supply of nitrogen, which can cause the tender, succulent stem of tef, thereby leading to a weak stem of the plant. Heavy nitrogen application reported to reduce the strength of the stem base and anchorage system, stem diameter, and stem wall width [64]. The genetic factor might play a significant role in increasing or decreasing the lodging problems in the study area more than the management practices to be followed because the entire experimental area is uniformly managed except for the rate of fertilizer applied.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, there is a trade-off between fertilizer use and lodging, as fertilizer leads to an increase in the number of panicles and grains per panicle, which in turn increases the weight of the stem and the possibility of lodging. This result is consistent with that of Abraha [65], who revealed that lodging in cereals is deliberated to be caused by high doses of nitrogen fertilizer application. Similarly, Tekalign \u003cem\u003eet al.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e[66] found significant differences in lodging percentage of tef due to N application rates of more than 60 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1;. This result is in agreement with the suggestion of Brady and Weil (2002) that excessive application of N causes high vegetative growth and extension of stem cells that consequently leads to weak stems and lodging. The maximum lodging index, 70.83%, was gained from 150 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; blended fertilizer, whereas the minimum, 31.25%, was from the non-fertilized plot.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 4:\u003c/strong\u003e The interaction effect of Varieties and N + NPSB fertilizer rates on growth parameters of tef\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"667\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTef\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVarieties\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eN + NPSB \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003erates (kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;PH (cm)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePL (cm)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTNT\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(Plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;PT\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(Plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLP (%)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0+0 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e93.9\u003csup\u003eijk\u003c/sup\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e35.6\u003csup\u003ejkl\u003c/sup\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.6\u003csup\u003ej\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.4\u003csup\u003ekl\u003c/sup\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26.7\u003csup\u003em\u003c/sup\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e99.8\u003csup\u003efgh\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37.8\u003csup\u003eghi\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.4\u003csup\u003ecde\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.8cdef\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39.6\u003csup\u003eefg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuduru\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5+100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97.7\u003csup\u003eghi\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37.0\u003csup\u003ehij\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.0\u003csup\u003edef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.26\u003csup\u003edef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e35.7hi\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23+150\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e102.3\u003csup\u003edef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38.8\u003csup\u003eefg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.6\u003csup\u003ecd\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.9\u003csup\u003ecde\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e41.1d\u003csup\u003eef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.5+200\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e112.7\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e42.0\u003csup\u003ecd\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.8\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.0\u003csup\u003ecd\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e42.2\u003csup\u003ecde\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+250\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e106\u003csup\u003ecd\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40.2\u003csup\u003ede\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.8efgh\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.1efgh\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e43.6\u003csup\u003ecd\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0+0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e96.2\u003csup\u003ehij\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e36.4\u003csup\u003eijk\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.6\u003csup\u003efgh\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.1fghi\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24.0\u003csup\u003em\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e103.5\u003csup\u003edef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39.2\u003csup\u003eefg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.9\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.2\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30.7\u003csup\u003ejk\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5+100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e99.6\u003csup\u003efgh\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37.7\u003csup\u003eghi\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.9\u003csup\u003eefg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.3defg\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29.2\u003csup\u003ekl\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKora\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23+150\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e113.0\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e42.8\u003csup\u003ebc\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.0\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8.2\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33.7\u003csup\u003eij\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.5+200\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e121.3\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e44.1\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8.9\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8.7\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e35.3\u003csup\u003ehi\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+250\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e123.0\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46.6\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.9\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8.5\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37.9\u003csup\u003egh\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0+0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e91.4\u003csup\u003ek\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.6\u003csup\u003el\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.2\u003csup\u003ej\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.1\u003csup\u003el\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e35.6\u003csup\u003ehi\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e96.2\u003csup\u003ehij\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e36.4\u003csup\u003eijk\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.2\u003csup\u003ehi\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.5\u003csup\u003ehij\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40.5\u003csup\u003edefg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5+100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e92.4\u003csup\u003ejk\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e35.1\u003csup\u003ehi\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.5\u003csup\u003ei\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.1\u003csup\u003ejk\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38.2\u003csup\u003efgh\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLocal\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23+150\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e101.4\u003csup\u003edef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38.4\u003csup\u003efgh\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.3\u003csup\u003egh\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.1\u003csup\u003ejk\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e45.3\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.5+200\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e109.4\u003csup\u003ebc\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e41.4\u003csup\u003ecd\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.6\u003csup\u003efgh\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.5ghij\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e48.9\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+250\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e105.0\u003csup\u003ede\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39.8\u003csup\u003edef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.2\u003csup\u003ehi\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.3\u003csup\u003eij\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e52.1\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLSD (5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.67\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.84\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.24\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCV (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8.0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMeans in the column followed by the same letter(s) are not significantly different at 5% level of significance. LSD (0.05) = Least Significant Difference at 5% level; and CV (%) = Coefficient of Variation in percent, PH=plant height, PL=Panicle length, TNT=Total number of tillers, PT=Productive tillers, LP=Lodging percentage\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"_Toc291972\"\u003e4.4. Effect of N + NPSB fertilizer rates on yield and yield components of tef \u0026nbsp;\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4 id=\"_Toc291973\"\u003e4.4.1. Grain yield\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer application rates, varieties, and their interaction effect was significant \u003cem\u003e(p \u0026lt; 0.05) and\u003c/em\u003e influenced the grain yield of tef. The highest mean grain yield (2565.4 kg ha-1) was obtained from the Kora variety at the rate of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e, which was statistically at par with the grain yield of 2383.4 kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e obtained from the Kora variety with a combined rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e, whereas the lowest mean grain yield of 704.9 kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e was obtained from the local variety at nil fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e, which was statistically similar with the grain yield of 745.9 kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e obtained from the Guduru variety at the control plot and the grain yield of 890.2 kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003eattained from the local variety at the application rate of 11.5 kg N + 100 kg blended NPSB fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e (Table 5). The highest grain yield was attained from the Kora variety at the highest rate of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB, which gave the highest grain yield advantage over the recommended rate of N and NPSB fertilizer and the unfertilized treatment of the local variety.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe grain yield ha⁻\u0026sup1; was improved with the combined application of N and blended NPSB fertilizer compared to unfertilized treatments. The possible reasons for the maximum grain yield ha⁻\u0026sup1; observed from the higher combined application of N and NPSB-blended fertilizer could be due to the contribution of balanced nutrients of both macro and micro plant nutrients present in fertilizers, which increased yield attributes through more uptakes of essential plant nutrients and increased translocation of photosynthetic materials from source to sink [67]. Additionally, the synergetic role of the combined use of blended NPSB fertilizer with supplementary N, thus the adequate supply of N promotes the formation of chlorophyll, which in turn resulted in higher photosynthetic activity, vigorous vegetative growth, and taller plants, P is an essential nutrient in the development of grains and also necessary for seed formation. B plays a vital role in grain setting and grain filling; sterility is declined, and the number of grains per spike or panicle is increased, and S facilitates absorption of other nutrients and enhances the formation of chlorophylls. This contributes to increased photosynthetic efficiency of a crop, stimulates seed production, and stimulates the enzymatic system of plants [68].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp id=\"_Toc291974\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;This was also evident from the observed positive and significant (p \u003cem\u003e\u0026lt; 0.05)\u003c/em\u003e correlation of grain yield with plant height (r = 0.88\u003csup\u003e**\u003c/sup\u003e), panicle length (r = 0.86**),\u0026nbsp;total tillers (r = 0.93\u003csup\u003e**\u003c/sup\u003e), productive tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e (r = 0.91\u003csup\u003e**\u003c/sup\u003e), thousand seed weight (r = 0.80**), and harvest index (r = 0.93**), except for lodging percentage, which was significantly and negatively correlated (r = -0.30*). This showed that the increment in plant height, panicle length, total tillers and productive tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e, thousand seed weight, and harvest index increases the grain yield, except the lodging percentage was contributed to the observed reduction of tef yield. This result was supported by the recent findings of Teklay \u003cem\u003eet al\u003c/em\u003e. [69], where a strong, significant, positive correlation of grain yield with plant height, panicle length, panicle seed weight, straw yield, and harvest index was observed. A similar result was also reported by Chanyalew [70] on 18 tef genotypes; grain yield was positively correlated with plant height, panicle length, thousand grain weight, and harvest index.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4.4.2. Straw yield\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer application rates, varieties, and their interaction effect was significant \u003cem\u003e(p \u0026lt; 0.05) and\u003c/em\u003e influenced the straw yield of tef. The Kora variety gave maximum production of straw yield of 5321.7 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; at the rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻\u0026sup1;, which was the only significantly different from other treatments\u003csup\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003e(Table 5), whereas the lowest straw yield of 2923.2 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; was obtained from the local variety at control plots, which was statistically in parity with the Guduru variety (2977.7 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1;) from the control plot, the Kora variety (2989.2 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1;) also from nil fertilizer application ha⁻\u0026sup1;\u003csub\u003e,\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sub\u003ealike from the local variety (3158.6 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1;) and (3182.5 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1;) at application rates of 11.5 kg N + 100 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻\u0026sup1; and 46 kg N + 100 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻\u0026sup1;, respectively(Table 5).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe straw yield enhanced consistently and significantly in response to increasing the rate of NPSB along with N fertilizer from nil up to the highest application rate of combined fertilizers within the Kora variety. The straw yield was obtained from the Kora variety, and the\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003eapplication of 46 kg N + 250 NPSB kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e was exceeded by 68.5 and 82% straw yield advantages over the recommended rate and zero fertilizer application with the local variety, respectively. This might be due to the difference among the genetic make-up of the tef crops in response to external environmental conditions, and also the plants grown on plots treated with higher rates of NPSB fertilizer supplemented with N ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e were attributed to higher N for abundant vegetative growth, higher P phosphorus for their good root development, a higher level\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003eof\u003cem\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003esulfur for a high number of tillering, and b for its higher cell division; it also contributed to increasing the total number of tillers per plant and influenced the straw yield [59]. Straw yield was also directly related to growth parameters like plant height, panicle length, and number of total and productive tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e,\u003csup\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003ewhich enhanced straw yield. This was also evident from the observed positive and significant (p \u003cem\u003e\u0026lt; 0.05)\u003c/em\u003e correlation of straw yield with plant height (r = 0.84\u003csup\u003e**\u003c/sup\u003e), panicle length (r = 0.83\u003csup\u003e**\u003c/sup\u003e), total number of tillers (r = 0.88**), and productive tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003e(r = 0.86) (Appendix Table 3).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp id=\"_Toc291975\"\u003eIn line with this result, Dinkinesh \u003cem\u003eet al.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e[71] reported that the straw yield and other crop growth parameters were enhanced in response to increasing rates of blended NPSB fertilizer, indicating the importance of the availability of balanced nutrients for better growth and development of crop plants. The more availability of N at the highest rates of NPSB might have played a positive role in cytokinin synthesis and cell division and thereby accelerated the vegetative growth of plants. Similarly, according to Abebe [72], straw yield increased with increasing the fertilizer rates, especially nitrogen, which increases vegetative growth of plants at higher doses. Besides, the significant increase in plant height, panicle length, and number of fertile tillers by N rate contributed to the significant increase in straw yield. Consistent with this finding, Melesse [73] reported that wheat cultivars produced higher straw yields in response to the combined application of higher rates of N and P. The increased straw yield might be due to the effect of high N application in the production of effective large numbers of tillers, increased plant height, and panicle length. Haftamu \u003cem\u003eet al.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e[50] and Mitiku [55], who indicated that the highest straw yield was obtained in response to the application of higher rates of N application, which enhanced the production of significantly longer panicle sizes and taller plants, and as a result, greater biomass yield.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e4.4.3. Total above ground dry biomass yield\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer application rates, varieties, and their interaction effect was significant \u003cem\u003e(p \u0026lt; 0.05) and\u003c/em\u003e influenced the total above-ground dry biomass yield of tef. The highest production of total above ground dry biomass yield in \u0026nbsp;Kora varieties \u0026nbsp;(7711.1 kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e) was recorded from those plants fertilized with 250 kg NPSB ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e supplemented by 46 kg N fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e which was statistically at par with TAGDBY of 7548.3 kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e at application rate of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e and the lowest mean TAGDBY of 3628.1 kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e was obtained from the Local variety at nil fertilizer application ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e, which were \u0026nbsp;statistically in parity with the nil application of fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e for both varieties i.e. Guduru (3723.6 kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e),and Kora (3968.8 kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e) varieties and lastly at application rate of 11.5 kg N + 100 kg NPSB fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e from Local variety (4048.7 kg ha\u003csup\u003e1\u003c/sup\u003e) (Table 5). Total above-ground dry biomass yield was enhanced at the highest application rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻\u0026sup1; with the Kora variety by 113% over control plots of the local variety.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe total above-ground dry biomass yield kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e was improved with increased combined application of N and blended NPSB fertilizer rate ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e. The probable reason for the highest straw yield ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e was observed from the higher combined application of NPSB-blended fertilizer supplemented with N fertilizer, which could be due to increased leaf area index and protein synthesis that enable the plants to capture ample solar radiation, which may result in the corresponding increment of photosynthetic rate and also the enhancement of investment of assimilates to leaves and stems that finally increase dry matter yield [74]. Likewise, the increase in total above-ground dry biomass yield at the highest rates of blended fertilizer might have resulted from the improved root growth and increased uptake of nutrients favoring better growth of the crop due to the synergetic effect of the nutrients [59]. Tef growth parameters also positively and significantly increased the TAGDBY through improved plant height (r=0.87**), panicle length (r=0.86**), total number of tillers (r=0.92**), and productive tillers plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003e(r=0.89**). In the case of Guduru and local varieties, TAGDBY was reduced at the highest application rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg blended fertilizer application rate; this might be due to the plant reaching its optimum rate of fertilizer requirements, i.e., 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB ha⁻\u0026sup1;. Beyond these rates, the plant growth and development are reduced, and this condition contributed to the low production of total above-ground dry biomass yield.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe result was in conformity with the findings of Seifu [11], who revealed that total above-ground dry biomass yield was significantly affected by the application of blended fertilizer. Similarly, Wakjira [56] reported that application of blended NPS fertilizer shows a significant increment in aboveground biomass yield of tef from 841 to 1009 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; at 0 and 120 kg blended NPS ha⁻\u0026sup1;. TGADBY was also increased in significant amounts for different applications of blended fertilizers [57], which states that the increase in biomass yield is attributed to the proportional vegetative growth, especially plant height. This result agrees with the finding of Woubshet \u003cem\u003eet al\u003c/em\u003e. [75], who found that application of 150 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; NPSB fertilizer increased the biomass yield of wheat by 11.5 t ha⁻\u0026sup1;. This might be due to Sulfur enhanced the formation of chlorophyll and encouraged vegetative growth, and B helps in N absorption. The result was also in conformity with the findings of Adera [52], which showed that total aboveground dry biomass yield was significantly affected by the application of blended fertilizer. Other authors also reported that application of 120 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1; NPS fertilizer produced the maximum biomass yield of tef [56]. Higher total above-ground dry biomass yield obtained from larger amounts of nitrogen may be due to the increased investment of assimilates to leaves and stems that finally increase dry matter yield. Similar results were reported by Cassman \u003cem\u003eet al.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e[76], in which the average maize stover yield increased for the N and green manure treatments, with yield increments of 2 to 75% and 6 to 68% over the control treatments, respectively, due to increased N application.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 id=\"_Toc291976\"\u003e4.4.4. Thousand Seed weight\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer application rates, varieties, and their interaction effect was significant \u003cem\u003e(p \u0026lt; 0.05) and\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003einfluenced the thousand seed weight of tef. The highest thousand seed weight (0.308 g) was produced by the application of 34.5 kg N + 200kg NPSB fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003efrom Kora variety, which was statically in parity with the combined application rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e (0.295 g) and 23 kg N + 150 kg NPSB fertilizer (0.294 g) from the same variety, while in the lowest TSW (0.208 g) was recorded from Local variety with unfertilized plot, which was statically at par with the same variety at rate of 11.5 kg N + 100 kg NPSB fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003e(0.224 g) (Table 5).\u0026nbsp;The thousand seed weight obtained from the Kora variety at a combined application rate of 34.5 kg N and 200 kg NPSB ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e exceeded the recommended rates of N and NPSB and zero fertilizer application with the local variety by 24.2% and 48%, respectively. In other words, the thousand seed weight was increased significantly across the increased rates of NPSB fertilizer supplemented by N fertilizer ha-1.\u003csup\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003eThis might be due to the provision of adequate and balanced nutrients, which enhanced the accumulation of assimilate in the grains, resulting in good grain filling and improvement of grain seed size as compared to unfertilized or low-fertilized plants.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHigher seed weight is a reflection of improved nutrient use efficiency as a result of increased application of nitrogen level and NPSB fertilizer. This is in line with Muhammad, \u003cem\u003eet al\u003c/em\u003e. [77], who reported that applying boron is responsible for carbohydrate metabolism and sugar transport to different parts of plants and application of nitrogen is also positive impact on yield components of wheat crop especially on 1000 seed weight. Likely, thousand-seed weight is the most important yield determining component [78]. The increase in thousand kernel weight with increasing rate of NPSB from 0/0 to 32/23 N/P2O5 could be related to plant growth, the higher the plant growth the higher the photosynthetic area and so photosynthesis, the higher assimilate translocation to the sink. \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe thousand seed weight plays an important role in increasing the grain yield of cereal crops. The thousand seed weight of tef might be due to the better nutrition of the mother plant during growth up to physiological maturity. This suggestion is in agreement with the finding of Kaleem \u003cem\u003eet al.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e[79], who reported that higher rates of fertilizer application produced heavy weight seeds. Gebrekidan, [80] has reported that the highest thousand seed weight was obtained from recommended N and NPKSZnB-blended fertilizer and NPSZnB-blended fertilizer; however, the lowest value was recorded for the control plots. AL-Abdul Salam [81] has also reported improvement in thousand seed weight due to fertilizer application. Debnath\u003cem\u003e\u0026nbsp;et al.\u003c/em\u003e [82] reported a significant effect of boron application on thousand kernel weight (g) of wheat.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 5:\u003c/strong\u003e The interaction effect of Varieties and N + NPSB fertilizer rates on yield and yield components of tef\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"653\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTef Varieties\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eN + NPSB\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003erates (kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGY (kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSY (kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTAGDBY (kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTSW (gm)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0+0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e745.9\u003csup\u003ekl\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2977.7\u003csup\u003ej\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3723.6\u003csup\u003el\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.240 \u003csup\u003ehi\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1635.0\u003csup\u003eef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4043.8\u003csup\u003eef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5678.8\u003csup\u003edef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.266ef\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5+100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1377.1\u003csup\u003eg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3775.9\u003csup\u003efg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5153.0\u003csup\u003egh\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.258\u003csup\u003efg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuduru\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23+150\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1738.6\u003csup\u003ede\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4150.5\u003csup\u003ede\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5889.0\u003csup\u003ecde\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.273\u003csup\u003edef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.5+200\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1939.5\u003csup\u003ecd\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4265.0\u003csup\u003ecde\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6204.5\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.290\u003csup\u003ebc\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+250\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1640.1\u003csup\u003eef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4406.7\u003csup\u003ecd\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6046.8\u003csup\u003ecd\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.281\u003csup\u003ebcde\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0+0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e978.6\u003csup\u003eij\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2989.2\u003csup\u003ej\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3968.8\u003csup\u003ekl\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.257\u003csup\u003efg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1832.8\u003csup\u003ede\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4476.9\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6311.7\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.281\u003csup\u003ebcde\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5+100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1473.4\u003csup\u003efg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4047.6\u003csup\u003eef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5524.0\u003csup\u003eefg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.266\u003csup\u003eef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKora \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23+150\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2171.6\u003csup\u003ebc\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4821.7\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6997.3\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.294\u003csup\u003eabc\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.5+200\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2565.4 \u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4977.9b\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7548.3\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.308\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+250\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2383.4\u003csup\u003eab\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5321.7\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7711.1\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.295\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0+0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e704.9\u003csup\u003ek\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2923.2\u003csup\u003ej\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3628.1\u003csup\u003el\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.208\u003csup\u003ej\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1076.5\u003csup\u003ehi\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3182.5\u003csup\u003eij\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4259.1\u003csup\u003ejk\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.248\u003csup\u003ehg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;Local \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5+100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e890.2 \u003csup\u003eijk\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3158.6\u003csup\u003eij\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4048.7\u003csup\u003ekl\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.224\u003csup\u003eij\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23+150\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1257.8\u003csup\u003ehg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3428.1\u003csup\u003ehi\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4679.7\u003csup\u003eij\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.269\u003csup\u003edef\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.5+200\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1482.4\u003csup\u003efgh\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3775.7\u003csup\u003efg\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5258.1\u003csup\u003efgh\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.284\u003csup\u003ebcd\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+250\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1257.8\u003csup\u003egh\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3632.2\u003csup\u003egh\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4890.0\u003csup\u003ehi\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.281\u003csup\u003ebcde\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLSD(0.05) \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e238.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e312.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e488.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.017\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 107px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCV (%) \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 114px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 116px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.54\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 105px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMeans in the column followed by the same letter(s) are not significantly different at 5% level of significance, LSD (0.05) = Least Significant Difference at 5% level; and CV (%) = Coefficient of Variation in percent, GY=Grain yield, SY=Straw yield, TAGDBY=above ground total biomass yield, TSW=Thousand seed weight\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 id=\"_Toc291977\"\u003e4.4.5. Harvest index\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHarvest index (HI) was calculated as the ratio of grain yield to total above-ground dry biomass yield. The harvest index (HI) of tef was significantly \u003cem\u003e(p \u0026lt; 0.05)\u003c/em\u003e influenced by the main effect of N + NPSB fertilizer application rates and variety, but their interaction effect was non-significant (p \u0026gt; \u003cem\u003e0.05).\u003c/em\u003e The harvest index shows the efficiency of the distribution of photosynthetic materials between different plant organs. Variety Kora gave the highest HI of 29.3% as compared to the rest of the varieties, whereas the local varieties, which gave a significantly lower harvest index (24.5%) (Table 6). There was variation in the harvest index of tef varieties that might be due to their genetic variability of tef cultivars and their variation in resource acquisition and nutrient utilization efficiency.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn another hand, the application of NPSB supplemented by N fertilizer has a significant effect on harvest index. The maximum harvest index (30.6%) was recorded from the application of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha⁻\u0026sup1;, and the lowest (21.3%) was obtained from the control or unfertilized plot. This low harvest index might be associated with a lack of essential plant nutrients in the soil, and plant nutrients in the soil were not found in easily available form for the crop to use. The reduction in harvest index at a lower rate of N + NPSB fertilizer might be due to the total biomass increasing more than the economic yield of the crop and the reduction of tef yield. This result is in harmony with Mohammed \u003cem\u003eet al.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e[78], who reported that the application of B and Zn with NPK increases the yield components of wheat, especially the harvest index and grain yield. Tahir \u003cem\u003eet al\u003c/em\u003e. [83] articulated that a higher transfer of assimilates to the grain would maximize the harvest index. The higher barley harvest index with increased fertilizer rates might be due to higher grain yield plant\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e at higher fertilizer rates. Similarly, Solomon \u003cem\u003eet al.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e[13] reported a highly significant and positive relation between harvest index and grain yield in barley.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHarvest index as a quantitative trait, an indicator of plant efficiency to distribute dry matter in grain [84]. Additionally, harvest index is the balance between the productive parts of the plant and the reserves, which form the economic yield. Greater improvement in grain yield compared to the corresponding increase in straw yield contributed to the increase in harvest index across the increasing levels of NPSB blended fertilizer [85]. This significant difference in harvesting index obtained from blended fertilizer might be attributed to the sufficient quantity of nutrients, particularly phosphorus, for translocation to sink. In line with the result of Gebrekidan and Seyoum [86], who reported that harvesting index increased with the application of P fertilizer rate in rice. This result is supported by the findings of Tagesse \u003cem\u003eet al.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e[87], where harvest index was significantly affected by the interaction of blended NPS and supplemental N rates. Tahir \u003cem\u003eet al.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e[83] articulated that a higher transfer of assimilates to the grain would maximize the harvest index and reduce the proportion of dry matter produced. The higher barley harvest index with increased fertilizer rate might be due to higher grain yield per plant at higher fertilizer rates.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 6:\u003c/strong\u003e The main effect of Varieties and N + NPSB fertilizer rates on Harvest index tef\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"595\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTef varieties \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest Index (%)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuduru \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27.2\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKora \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29.3\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGerawo \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24.5\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLSD (5%) \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.02\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eN + NPSB (Kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0+0\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21.3d\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e46+100 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25.1\u003csup\u003ec\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e11.5+100 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27.6\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e23+150 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29.1\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e34.5+200 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30.6\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e46+250 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28.3\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLSD (5%)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.44\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 277px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCV (%)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 318px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMeans in the column followed by the same letter(s) are not significantly different at 5% level of significance. LSD (0.05) = Least Significant Difference at 5% level; and CV (%) = Coefficient of Variation in percent\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"_Toc291978\"\u003e4.5. Agronomic Efficiency\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAgronomic nutrient use efficiency is the amount of additional yield obtained from each additional kg of nutrient applied [88]. The result revealed that the application of different levels of N + NPSB blended fertilizers had a significant effect on the agronomic efficiency of tef. The highest agronomic efficiency (13.7 kg kg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;1\u003c/sup\u003e) was observed from application rates of 23 kg N + 150 kg NPSB from the Kora variety, whereas the lowest agronomic efficiency (3.43) was observed at an application rate of 46 kg N + 250 kg NPSB\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eha⁻\u0026sup1;\u003csup\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTable 7: Effect of Varieties and N + NPSB fertilizer levels on Agronomic Efficiency of tef \u003csub\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTef Varieties\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eN + NPSB (Kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNutrient applied (kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrain yield \u0026nbsp;(kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eANUE \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(kg kg\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGuduru\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0+0\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.00\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e745.9\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.00\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+100\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88.64\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1635.0\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10.03\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5+100\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e54.04\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1377.1\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.68\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23+150\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e86.80\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1738.6\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.44\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.5+200\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e119.58\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1939.5\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.98\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+250\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e152.34\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1640.1\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.87\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMean\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e8.16\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKora\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0+0\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.00\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e978.6\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.00\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+100\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88.64\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1832.8\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.64\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5+100\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e54.04\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1473.4\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.16\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23+150\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e86.80\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2171.6\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13.7\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.5+200\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e119.58\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2565.4\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13.3\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+250\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e152.34\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2383.4\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.22\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMean\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e9.00\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocal\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0+0\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.00\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e704.9\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.00\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+100\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88.64\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1076.5\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.19\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5+100\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e54.04\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e890.2 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.43\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23+150\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e86.80\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1257.8\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.37\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.5+200\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e119.58\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1482.4\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.50\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+250\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e152.34\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1257.8\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.63\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 109px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMean\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 150px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 86px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 137px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4.02\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003efrom Local variety (Table 7). This is because at increasing levels of fertilizer agronomic efficiency was decreased. Similar to this finding, Raun and Johnson [89] stated that with increasing fertilizer, there was a much larger average decline in agronomic efficiency.\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eWith this finding in line, Jones \u003cem\u003eet al\u003c/em\u003e. [90] were stated matching appropriate essential macronutrients and micronutrients with crop nutrient uptake could optimize nutrient use efficiency and crop yield.\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"_Toc291979\"\u003e4.6. Partial budget analysis\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs indicated in Table 8, the partial budget analysis revealed that the highest net benefit, 93,447.45 Birr ha-1, with a marginal rate of return of 1082.4% and a value-to-cost ratio of 18 ETB per unit of investment, was obtained from a combination of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e and the Kora variety. However, the lowest net benefit, 25,159.25 Birr ha-1, was obtained from the local variety without the application of N + NPSB fertilizer rates ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003e(Table 8). Thus, applications of 34.5 N kg + 200 kg NPSB rate are economically beneficial as compared to the other treatments in the study area because the highest net benefit and the marginal rate of return were above the minimum level (100%).\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTable 8: Partial budget analysis for combined use of N + NPSB fertilizer rates and tef varieties on straw and grain yield of tef \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"673\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVariety \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eN+NPSB\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAGY\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eASY \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e) \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; TGB\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(Birr ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTVC\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(Birr ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNB\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(Birr ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMRR\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(%)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuduru\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0+0\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e671.3 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2,679.90 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;32,209.15 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e900\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31,309.15\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e-\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+100\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,471.5 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3,639.40 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;65,015.50 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4,305\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e60,710.50\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e863.5\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5+100\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,239.4 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3,398.30 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;55,592.95 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3,150\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e52,442.95\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eD\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23+150\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,564.7 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3,735.50 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;68,797.35 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4,322\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e64,475.35\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,029.3\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.5+200\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,745.6 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3,838.50 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;75,929.05 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5,491\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e70,438.05\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e510.1\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+250\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,476.1 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3,966.00 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;66,006.80 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6,660\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e59,346.80\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eD\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKora \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0+0\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e880.7 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2,690.30 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;40,192.35 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;900\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39,292.35\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e-\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+100\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,649.5 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4,029.20 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;72,754.00 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4,305\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e68,449.00\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e856.3\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5+100\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,326.1 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3,642.80 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;59,498.80 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3,150\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e56,348.80\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eD\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23+150\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,954.4 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;4,339.50 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e85,115.95 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; 4,322 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e80,793.95\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2,085.8\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.5+200\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2,308.9 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; 4,480.10 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e98,938.45 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;5,491 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e93,447.45\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,082.4\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+250\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2,145.1\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;4,789.50 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;93,487.55 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6,660\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e86,827.55\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eD\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLocal\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0+0\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e634.4\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;2,630.90 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;25,609.25 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e450\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25,159.25\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e-\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+100\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e968.9\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;2,864.30 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;36,227.75 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3,855\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e32,372.75\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e211.9\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5+100\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e801.2\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;2,842.70 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;31,142.75 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2,700\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28,442.75\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eD\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23+150\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,132.0\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;3,085.30 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;41,673.25 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3,872\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37,801.25\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e798.5\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.5+200\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,334.2\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;3,398.10 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;48,521.25 \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5,041\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e43,480.25\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e485.8\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46+250\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 87px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,132.0\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;3,269.00 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;42,132.50 \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6,210\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e35,922.50\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eD\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhere, AGY= Adjusted grain yield, ASY=Adjusted straw yield, TGB=Total gross benefit,\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTVC=Total variable cost, NB=Net benefit, MRR (%) =Marginal rate of return, D= Dominated treatment\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"5. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS","content":"\u003cp\u003eTef is the only member of the cereal crop family among the around 350 species in the genus Eragrostis and tribe Eragrostidae. The Poaceae family of grasses includes the C4 self-pollinating annual grass known as tef (Eragrostis tef/Zucc./Trotter), which reaches a height of 40 to 80 cm. However, due to low soil fertility, inadequate fertilizer use, weeds, irregular rainfall distribution, a lack of high-yielding cultivars, improper management techniques, and lodging, both the national average and the study area yield of tef are extremely low. The two main problems limiting production are inadequate soil fertility and the absence of high-yielding enhanced tef cultivars. This study's goal was to assess how N and NPSB fertilizer affected the tef varieties' growth, yield, and yield components in the Gechi District, South West Ethiopia.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe field experiment was set as 3*6 factorial arrangements in a RCBD with three replications. The result showed that the main effect of N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;NPSB rate and, tef variety had a significant effect on 50% days of flowering, days to 90% physiological maturity and harvesting index of tef. Besides of this, the result indicated that the main effect of N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;NPSB rates, varieties and their interaction had a significant effect on plant height, panicle length, total number of tillers and productive tillers pant\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e, lodging percentage, grain yield, straw yield, total above ground dry biomass yield, and thousand seed weight.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe highest plant height 123.08cm, panicle length 46.6 cm, and total number of tillers plant\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e 9.9 were recorded from Kora variety at rate of 46 kg N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;250 kg NPSB fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e, but the highest grain yield of 2565.4 kg ha\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e, productive tillers plant \u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e of 8.7 and TSW of 0.308 g were recorded from Kora variety at application rate of 34.5 kg N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;200 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e. Similarly, the economic analysis showed that the highest net benefit of 93,447.45birr ha\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e with marginal rate of return of 1082.4% was obtained from Kora variety with application of 34.5 kg N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;200 kg NPSB fertilizer rate ha\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e, while the lowest net benefit of 25,159.25 birr ha\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e with lowest marginal rate of return was obtained from Local variety with nil fertilizer application rate ha\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e. The highest AE was recorded from Kora variety with application rate of 23/150 kg N/NPSB fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e\u003csub\u003e,\u003c/sub\u003e while the lowest was from Local variety with application rate of 11.5/100 kg NPSB ha\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e. However, since the data is conducted only for one season and one location so, for providing sound recommendation worth repeating the experiment across different seasons and locations using different N\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;NPSB fertilizer rates and different tef varieties was very crucial.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Abbreviations","content":"\u003cp\u003epH\u003cstrong\u003e:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003ePower of hydrogen\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNPSB:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eNitrogen, Phosphorus, Sulfur, Boron blended fertilizer\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCEC:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eCation exchange capacity\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eANOVA:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eAnalysis of variance\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRCBD:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eRandomized complete block design\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCIMMYT\u003c/strong\u003e:International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003eEIAR:\u003c/strong\u003eEthiopian Institute Agricultural Research\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCSA:\u003c/strong\u003eCentral Statistical Agency\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCV: Coefficient of variation\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLSD:\u003c/strong\u003e List significance difference\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData availability\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll data generated or analysed during the study are included in this manuscript and supplementary materials\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDeclarations Ethics approval and consent to participate\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompeting interests\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors declare there was no competing of interests.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor contributions\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdisu Akalu develop the research concept note, wrote the draft manuscript and interpretation of the result.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSolomon Tulu\u003c/strong\u003econtributed to manuscript development and revisions\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmsalu Nebiyucontributed to work by supervising the overall research procedures and edition\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGarome Shifaraw contributed to the work managing the research data, data analysis and editing the paper for publication\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgements\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDejene mengistu \u0026amp; lemlem Mekonen. 2012. Integrated Agronomic crop managemnts to improve Teff productivity under Terminal Drought, Water stress .Prof.IsmailMd. Mofizur (Ed.),In Tech.Available from:bhttp://www.Intechopen.com/books/water stress/integrated-agronomic crop managements to improve- teff productivity under terminal drought\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVavilov, N.I. and Freier, F., 1951. Studies on the origin of cultivated plants. Studies on the origin of cultivated plants.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHailu, T. and Seyfu, K., 2000. Production and importance of tef in Ethiopia Agriculture. \u003cem\u003eHailu Tefera, Getachew Belay and Mark Sorrels (Ends) Narrowing the Rift: Tef research and development-Proceedings of the international Tef Genetics and improvement\u003c/em\u003e, pp.16-19.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAbay A, Sheleme B, Fran W (2015) Characterization and classification of soils of selected areas in southern Ethiopia. J Environ Earth Sci 5:116\u0026ndash;137 \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBalsamo, R.A., Vander Willigen, C., Boyko, W. and Farrant, J., 2005. Retention of mobile water during dehydration in the desiccation\u003cimg width=\"4\" height=\"1\" src=\"data:image/png;base64,R0lGODlhBgACAHcAMSH+GlNvZnR3YXJlOiBNaWNyb3NvZnQgT2ZmaWNlACH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAAGAAIAgAAAAAAAAAIFBHIWuwUAOw==\" alt=\"image\"\u003etolerant grass Eragrostis nindensis. \u003cem\u003ePhysiologia Plantarum\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e124\u003c/em\u003e(3), pp.336-342. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCSA (Central Statistics Agency). 2020. The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Agricultural Sample Survey 2017/2018 (2010 E.C.) Vol. I. Report on Area and production of major Crops (Private peasant holdings \u0026lsquo;\u0026lsquo;Meher\u0026rsquo;\u0026rsquo; season), Statistical Bulletin 586, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eATA (Agricultural Transformation Agency).2013a \u0026ldquo;Value Chain Programs: Tef.\u0026rdquo;http://www.ata.gov.et/programs/value-chainprograms/tef/ [accessed online on 15/07/2013. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDemeke, M. and Di Marcantonio, F., 2013. Understanding the performance of food production in sub-Saharan Africa and its implications for food security. Journal of Development and Agricultural Economics, 5(11), pp.425-443. (From Harvard) \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAbraham, R., 2015. Achieving food security in Ethiopia by promoting productivity of future world food tef: A review. \u003cem\u003eAdv Plants Agric Res\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e2\u003c/em\u003e(2), p.00045. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBaye, K., 2018. Nutrient composition and health benefits. The economics of teff, exploring Ethiopia\u0026rsquo;s biggest cash crop. International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Wasington DC, pp: 371-396 \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeyfu, K., 1997. Teff [Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter]. Promoting the Conservation and Use of Underutilized and Neglected crops.12. International Plant Genetics Resources Institute (IPGRI), Biodiversity Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, pp: 50 \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBerhe, T., Gebretsadik, Z., Edwards, S. and Araya, H., 2011, November. Boosting tef productivity using improved agronomic practices and appropriate fertilizer. In \u003cem\u003eAchievements and prospects of Tef improvement. Proceedings of the second International Workshop\u003c/em\u003e (pp. 133-140).).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSolomon Chanyalew, Kebebew Assefa, Mitiku Asfaw, Yazachew Genet, Kidist Tolossa, Worku Kebede, Tsion Fikre, Nigussu Hussen, Habte Jifar, Atinkut Fentahun, Kidu Gebremeskel, Girma Chemeda and Tegegn Belete. 2017. Tef (Eragrostis tef) Variety \u0026quot;Dagim\u0026quot; Ethiopia Journal of Agriculture Science. 27(2): 131-135\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eErmias. A., Teshome.A., Assefa.A., Wale.M., and Tadesse,T. (eds) (2007). Proceedings of the 1st Annual Regional Conference on Completed Crop ResearchActivities, 14-17 August 2006. Amhara Regional Agricultural Research Institute Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s13104-017-2573-1 \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAbraha Arefaine, 2013. Effects of rates and time of nitrogen fertilizer application on yield and yield components of teff [Eragrostis teff (zucc.) trotter] in the habro district, eastern Ethiopia. M.Sc. Thesis.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEthioSIS (Ethiopian Soil Information System) .2014. Soil Fertility and Fertilizer recommendation Atlas of Tigray Region. Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) and Agricultural Transformation Agency (ATA). ds of Ethiopia. \u003cem\u003eAmer Jour. of Pl. Nutri. Ferti. Tech. \u003c/em\u003e5(1): 1-15 \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTekalign, Y., 2016. \u003cem\u003eAnalyzing performances of selected sustainable land management practices in Gina Beret Watershed, North Shoa\u003c/em\u003e (Doctoral dissertation, Addis Ababa University). \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEthio SIS, 2013. Soil Fertility and Fertilizer tentative recommendation oromia Region. Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) and Agricultural Transformation Agency (ATA). \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTekalign Mamo, Teklu Erkossa and Balesh Tulema. 2001. Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition Research on Tef in Ethiopia. pp.199-200. In: Hailu Tefera, Getachew Belay and Mark Sorrels (eds.) 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Asian Research Publishing Network (ARPN). Journal of Agricultural and Biological Science, 7 (1), 1103\u0026ndash;1109\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHavlin, J.L., Beaton, J.D., Nelson, W.L. and Tisdale, S.L., 2005. Soil fertility and fertilizers: An introduction to nutrient management.\u003cstrong\u003eV(515)\u003c/strong\u003e. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFessehaye, Y., Bovenhuis, H., Rezk, M.A., Crooijmans, R., van Arendonk, J.A. and Komen, H., 2009. Effects of relatedness and inbreeding on reproductive success of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). \u003cem\u003eAquaculture\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e294\u003c/em\u003e(3-4), pp.180-186. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHaftamu, G., Mitiku, H. and Yamoah, C.F., 2009. Tillage frequency, soil compaction and N fertilizer rate effects on yield of teff (Eragrostis tef (zucc) Trotter) in central zone of Tigray, Northern Ethiopia. \u003cem\u003eMomona Ethiopian journal of science\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e1\u003c/em\u003e(1), pp.82-94. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBakala, A., Girma, A. and Sofiya, K., 2018. Soil characterization and response of maize (Zea mays L.) to application of blended fertilizer types and rates in Asossa district, Western Ethiopia. \u003cem\u003eUnpublished MSc Thesis, Haramaya University, Ethiopia\u003c/em\u003e. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdera Sisay.2016. Response of Tef [Eragrostistef (Zucc.) Trotter] to different blendedFertilizer Rates on Vertisols in Jama District, North eastern Ethiopia. M.Sc.Thesis, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBizuwork Tafes Desta. 2018. Growth, Yield and Grain Quality of Durum Wheat (Triticum Turgidum L.Var. Durum) as Influenced by Rates of Blended NPSB and N Fertilizers at Debre Zeit, Central Ethiopia. M.Sc. Thesis, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNdakidemi, P.A. and Dakora, F.D., 2007. Yield components of nodulated cowpea (\u003cem\u003eVigna unguiculata\u003c/em\u003e) and maize (\u003cem\u003eZea mays\u003c/em\u003e) plants grown with exogenous phosphorus in different cropping systems. \u003cem\u003eAnimal Production Science\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e47\u003c/em\u003e(5):\u003c/strong\u003e583-589. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMitiku Melaku. 2008. Effect of Seeding and Nitrogen Rates on Yield and Yield Components of Tef [Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter] at Adet North Western Ethiopia. M.Sc. Thesis, Haramaya University, College of Agriculture, Haramaya, Ethiopia\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWakjira Tesfahun. 2018. Tef Yield Response to NPS Fertilizer and Methods of Sowing in East Shewa, Ethiopia. Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 13 (2): 162-173 \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFayera Asefa, Adugna Debela \u0026amp; Muktar Mohammed. 2014. Evaluation of Tef [Eragrostis tef (Zuccagni) Trotter] Responses to Different Rates of NPK Along With Zn and B in Didessa District, Southwestern Ethiopia. World Applied Sciences Journal, 32 (11): 2245-2249. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e Cook R.J. and Veseth, R.J. 1991. Wheat health management. The American Psychopathological Society, USA. 152. \u003c/em\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFageria, N.K., Baligar, V.C. and Jones, C.A., 2011. Growth and mineral nutrition of field crops. 3rdEdn. Taylor \u0026amp;Francis Group, New York. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrhan Abayu. 2012. Agronomic and Economic Effects of Blended Fertilizers under Planting Method on Yield and Yield Components of Tef. M.Sc. Thesis, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOkubay Giday, Heluf Gibrekidanand Tareke Berhe. 2014. Response of tef (Eragrostis tef) to different rates of slow release and conventional urea fertilizers in Vertisol of southern Tigray, Ethiopia. Advances in Plants and Agricultural Research, 1(5): 1-8.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBotella MA, Cerda AC, and Lips SH, 1993. Dry matter production, yield, and allocation of carbon-14 assimilate by wheat as affected by nitrogen source and salinity. Agronomy Journal, 35(5): 1044-1049. [63] Samuel., T., Nelson, W. L., Beaton, J. D., \u0026amp; Havlin, J. L. (1993). Soil fertility and fertilizers (5th ed). MacMilln Company. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eHobbs, P. R. (1998). Wheat research needs beyond 2000AD. Proceedings of the International Group Meeting on \u0026ldquo;Wheat Research Needs Beyond 2000 AD\u0026rdquo; Held at Directorate of Wheat Research, Karnal, India, 12\u0026ndash;14 August.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAbraha, Arefaine. 2013. Effects of Rates and Time of Nitrogen Fertilizer Application on Yield and Yield Components of Teff [\u003cem\u003eEragrostis tef \u003c/em\u003e(Zucc.) Trotter] in Habro District, Eastern Ethiopia. M.Sc. Thesis, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia) \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTekalign Mamo, Teklu Erkossa \u0026amp; BaleshTulema. 2000. Review of soil fertility and plant nutrition research conducted on tef. Proceeding of the International workshop tef genetics and improvement. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.pp.37-38 \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGobarah, M.E., Mohamed, M.H. and Tawfik, M.M., 2006. Effect of phosphorus fertilizer and foliar spraying with zinc on growth, yield and quality of groundnut under reclaimed sandy soils. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Applied Science Research\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e2\u003c/em\u003e(8), pp.491-496. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMengel, K., and E. A. Kirkby, 1996. Principles of Plant Nutrition, Panimo Publishing Corporation, New Delhi, India. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTeklay T. and Girmay G. (2016). Agronomic and economic evaluations of compound fertilizer applications under different planting methods and seed rates of tef [eragrostis tef (zucc.) trotter] in northern Ethiopia. Journal of the Drylands 6, 409\u0026ndash;422.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChanyalew, S., 2010. Genetic analyses of agronomic traits of tef (Eragrostis tef) genotypes. \u003cem\u003eResearch Journal of Agriculture and Biological Sciences\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e6\u003c/em\u003e(6), pp.912-916. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDinkinesh Abera, Tamado Tana \u0026amp; Tadesse Dessalegn (2020). Effects of blended NPSB fertilizer rates on yield and grain quality of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L.) varieties in Minijar Shenkora District, Central Ethiopia. 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Effect of integrated use of lime, blended fertilizer, and compost on productivity, nutrient removal and economics of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) on acid soils of high lands in West Showa Zone of Ethiopia. Int. J. of Life Sciences, 2017, Vol. 5 (3): 311-322. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCassman, K.G., Dobermann, A., Walters, D.T. and Yang, H., 2003. Meeting cereal demand while protecting natural resources and improving environmental quality. \u003cem\u003eAnnual Review of Environment and Resources\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e28\u003c/em\u003e(1), pp.315-358. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMuhammed T,Asefa T,Tajamol H,wasoya A (2009) Yield response of wheat to Boron application.PakJ Life Soc Sci 7(1):39-42. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAshraf, M.A., A. Ghafoor, N.A. Khan and M. Yousaf. 1999. Path coefficient in wheat under rain fed conditions. Pakistan J. Agric. Res., 17:1-6. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKaleem, S., Ansarm Ali M., Sher A. and Rashid M., 2009. Effect of Phosphorus on the Yield an Yield Components of Wheat Variety Inqlab-91 under Rainfed Conditions \u003cem\u003eSarhadJournal of Agriculture\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003e25(1):\u003c/strong\u003e1989\u0026ndash;1992.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGebrekidan,LH.,Gebreslase S.M and Hiluf.M.H.,2015.Effect of Blended Fertilizer Application on Teff(\u003cem\u003eEragrostis tef [Zucc./Toller)\u003c/em\u003e and Yield, Yield Components and Nutrients uptake by grain Grown on retools and Vertisols. North Ethiopia. Journal of Natural science research,\u003cstrong\u003e(21\u003c/strong\u003e);13-22 \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAl-Abdulsalam, M.A., 1997. Influence of nitrogen fertilization rates and residual effect of organic manure rates on the growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Arab Gulf Journal of Scientific Research, 15(3), pp.647-660. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDebnath, M.R., Jahiruddin, M., Rahman, M.M. and Haque, M.A., 2011. Determining optimum rate of boron application for higher yield of wheat in Old Brahmaputra Floodplain soil. \u003cem\u003eJournal of the Bangladesh Agricultural University\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e9\u003c/em\u003e(2), pp.205-210. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTahir, M., Tanveer, A., Shah, T.H., Fiaz, N. and Wasaya, A., 2009. Yield response of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to boron application at different growth stages. \u003cem\u003ePak. J. Life Soc. Sci\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e7\u003c/em\u003e(1), pp.39-42. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShahryari, R. and Mollasadeghi, V., 2011. Increasing of wheat grain yield by use of a humic fertilizer. \u003cem\u003eAdv. Environ. Biol\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e5\u003c/em\u003e(3), pp.516-518. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBerhe, T., Girmay, G. and Kidanemariam, A., 2020. 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International Journal of Research in Agricultural Sciences Volume 7, Issue 3, ISSN (Online): 2348 \u0026ndash; 3997. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMengel, K. and Kirkby, E. A. 1996. Principles of Plant Nutrition, Panimo Publishing Corporation, New Delhi, India \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRaun, W.R. and Johnson, G.V. (1999) Improving nitrogen use efficiency for cereal production. Agronomy Journal, 91: 357\u0026ndash;363. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJohnson, G.V. and Raun, W.R. (2003) Nitrogen response index as a guide to fertilizer management. Journal of Plant Nutrition, 26: 249\u0026ndash;262.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Growth, NPSB fertilizer, Tef, Yield","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6546186/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-6546186/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBackground:\u003c/strong\u003e Tef [Eragrostis tef (Zucc) Trotter] serves as a crucial staple meal for around 57.2 million individuals in Ethiopia, or over 64% of the nation's entire population, and is a significant source of sustenance and income.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, its growth and yield are mainly constrained by inappropriate soil fertility management and lack of site- and variety-specific fertilizer recommendations. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted during the 2020 main cropping season under rainfed conditions on a farmer's field in the Gechi district, southwestern Ethiopia. The study aimed to assess the impact of varying rates of N + NPSB fertilizer on the growth, yield, and yield components of tef varieties, as well as to determine the economically optimal amounts of N + NPSB fertilizer for enhanced yields of tef varieties in the testing environment.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethods:\u003c/strong\u003e The treatment was laid out in a 3*6 factorial RCBD consisting of tef varieties and N + NPSB fertilizer rates with three replications. SAS versions 9.3 was used to record growth, yield, and yield component data and perform an analysis of variance (ANOVA).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResults:\u003c/strong\u003e Except for days to 50% flowering (DF), days to 90% physiological maturity (DPM), and harvest index (HI), the results indicated that the main and interaction effects of variety and fertilizer rates were significant (p \u0026lt; 0.05) for all the variables examined. The highest grain yield (2565.4 kg ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e), thousand seed weight (0.30 g), and harvest index (30.64%) were recorded from the Kora variety under an application rate of 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer ha\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e. Based on partial budget analysis, the combination of Kora variety and 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻¹\u003csup\u003e \u003c/sup\u003egave the highest net benefit of 93,447.45 Birr ha⁻¹\u003csup\u003e \u003c/sup\u003ewith a marginal rate of return (MRR) of 1082.4% Birr ha⁻¹,\u003csup\u003e \u003c/sup\u003ewhich could be considered as profitable for the farmers in the study area.The Kora variety exhibited the maximum agronomic efficiency, applying 23 kg N + 150 kg NPSB fertilizer ha⁻¹.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConclusions:\u003c/strong\u003e The study suggests that farmers in the study area can use 34.5 kg N + 200 kg NPSB and Kora variety. However, since the data is obtained from only one season and location, it will be worth repeating the experiment under field conditions across different seasons and locations to draw sound conclusions and recommendations.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Effect of N and NPSB Fertilizer Rates on Growth, Yield and Yield Components of tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.)Trotter) Varieties in Gechi District, Southwestern Ethiopia","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-06-09 14:11:17","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6546186/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"92bb950e-bc5c-41a8-b58c-bb9e030027a4","owner":[],"postedDate":"June 9th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-07-14T10:39:15+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-06-09 14:11:17","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-6546186","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-6546186","identity":"rs-6546186","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}