Response of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Wheat at Kulumsa in Arsi Highlands of Ethiopia

A field experiment was conducted at Kulumsa Agricultural Research Center during 2014 to 2015 cropping season to evaluate the responses of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) to integrated use of organic fertilizers (vermicompost and conventional compost) and/or inorganic NP fertilizers. The treatments consisted of recommended nitrogen and phosphorous rates from inorganic fertilizer, vermicompost, and conventional compost. They also consisted of combinations of two or three sources at a ratio of 50:50% and 33:33:33%. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. Higher yield of bread wheat was obtained from the application of full dose of nitrogen and phosphorous from inorganic fertilizer sources. Application of organic fertilizers (vermicompost and compost) with inorganic fertilizers gave statistically similar yield and yield components to NP fertilizer alone in both years. Lower yield and yield components of bread wheat were achieved from application of organic fertilizer sources alone indicating gradual release of nutrient. In conclusion, organic fertilizers (vermicompost and conventional compost) alone cannot provide a viable substitute for inorganic fertilizer without causing a significant yield. Therefore, integrated use of organic and inorganic fertilizers was recommended for bread wheat production at Kulumsa in Arsi highlands and other similar agroecology.