Optimization of Maize Conservation Methods (Zea mays L.) Using Phytopesticides in Polypropylene Bags Stored in Rural Farmer of Cote d?Ivoire

The present study aims to improve, from an experimental design, the methods of maize grain conservation in polypropylene bags stored in warehouses in rural environment of Katiola (Central North) and Bondoukou (North-east) of Cte dIvoire. The originality of this study lies on the use of phytopesticides (leaves of L. multiflora and H. suaveolens) in maize conservation. Thus, three full factorial designs with two levels represented by four parameters affecting maize conservation were used. The identified parameters were the storage time (2 and 6 months), the nature of phytopesticides (Lippia multiflora and/or Hyptis suaveolens), the quantity of phytopesticides (0 and 5 % w/w) and the storage zone (Katiola and Bondoukou). The study determine that the optimal conservation was storage time at 6 months with mixture of L. multiflora and H. suaveolens (2.5 % w/w each plant) in Katiola zone. In the planned optimal conditions, the experimental values were 1.53 %, 12.1 % and 1.10 g/kg for weight loss, moisture percentage and aflatoxin B1 level respectively in polypropylene bags. These values of weight loss, moisture content and aflatoxin B1 level were substantially equal to those predicted.