EFFECT OF SOIL SALINITY ON THE GROWTH OF MAIZE (ZEA MAYS) VARIETTY (DURA) GROWN IN SA'AD ZUNGUR UNIVERSITY BAUCHI STATE, GADAU

This study investigates the effect of soil salinity on the growth of Zea mays(maize) in the Saadu Zungur University, Gadau, Bauchi State, Nigeria. The research focused on two key growth parameters: stem length and leaf length, under varying salinity levels (OmM, 50mM, 100mM, and 150mM). A Complete Randomized Block Design (CRBD) was employed with four treatments, each replicated four times, resulting in 16 replicates. Data collected at Week 2 and Week 4 showed that increased soil salinity had a significant negative impact on both stem and leaf length. Statistical analysis using One-Way ANOVA indicated a strong correlation between salinity levels and growth reduction, with p-values less than 0.05, confirming the significance of the results. The findings underscore the detrimental effect of salinity on maize growth, which is of particular concern for agricultural productivity in regions like Bauchi State, where saline soils are common. This study contributes to the understanding of how salinity stress affects maize and emphasizes the importance of salinity management in maintaining crop yield and food security. Further research into salt-tolerant maize varieties and effective soil management practices is recommended.