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

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