Investigation into the Effect of Loamy Soil Characteristics on Maize Growth Upon Crude Oil Contamination

Abstract

The characteristics on maize growth in loamy soil environment polluted with crude oil were studied to evaluate the effect. Different maize species was used to conduct the investigation such as: OBA 98, OBA Sipper 1, OBA supper 2, O.P maize and Tzee maize all these maize samples were collected from Agricultural development project (ADP) Port Harcourt branch. Experiment was carried out to ascertain the suitability of the various maize species for the purpose and result released by the establishment indicate positive. The various maize species were planted in loamy soil environment and their growth rate was measured per 5 days interval. Increase in growth rate was observed from 2 ½ days to 8 days before constant growth rate was further experienced and after then a withered on maize growth was observed. It is observed that within 9 days and above the effect of crude oil contamination was highly experienced on the maize growth. The necessary nutrient for maize growths was inhibited by the crude oil concentrations. The investigation reveals that crude oil contamination is a major component that affected the environment especially maize growth and yields production.