EFFECT OF TUFTS Guiera senegalensisOF PRODUCTION OF MILLET IN THE REGION MARADI (NIGER)
Abstract
In arid and semi-arid, the degradation and the decline in the soil fertility is a major concern for farmers. At Guidan Bakoye, in the Maradi region, to cope with this, the farmers have adopted the assisted natural regeneration to rebuild a degraded environment due to uncontrolled use. Thus, a variety of woody species have been bred and maintained in this region in particular, Guiera senegalensis. The present study focuses on the influence of the tufts of this plant on the production of millet in Guidan Bakoye locality. To do this, tests were carried out according to a device in a block randomized complete on 3 plots with tufts of Guiera senegalensis and a control plot (no tufts). The results obtained revealed a better root development of the millet associated with the Guiera senegalensiswhich seems to explore the rhizosphere of the latter unlike the mil playing out of this shrub whose roots are thin and vertical. The study also shows an increase in yields of grain and straw of millet under the influence of Guiera senegalensisrespectively in the order of 50 to 100% and from 10 % to 25%. It appears clearly that the growth and development of millet in the Guidan Bakoye soil are improved by the presence of tufts of Guiera senegalensis.