Abstract: The study "Identifying the Best Soil and Climatic Conditions for Maximum Yield of Stevia Seedlings at Kaduna Polytechnic" investigates the impact of soil type and climate on the growth of Stevia rebaudiana, a perennial herb with sweet leaves. The research aimed to determine the optimal conditions for Stevia seedling yield. The experiment involved growing Stevia plants in four different soil types: loamy, sandy, silty, and clay, under a controlled environment. Measurements of plant height, leaf count, root length, and root count were taken and analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results showed that Stevia plants thrived best in silty soil, with no growth observed in clay soil. Optimal growth was found in loamy soil with a composition of 45% sand, 40% silt, and 15% clay, and a pH of 6-8. The study also found that Stevia growth was most robust during warm weather (February to April) with over 10 hours of sunlight, especially in well-drained sandy loam soil composed of 70% sand, 20% silt, and 10% clay. These findings provide significant insights for Stevia cultivation practices, potentially leading to improved yield and quality. The study offers valuable information for Stevia cultivation in the Kaduna Polytechnic region and other regions with similar conditions.

Keywords: Stevia Rebaudiana,  Soil Conditions, Climatic Conditions, Kaduna Polytechnic

Works Cited:

Adebayo E. A., Omotosho A.P, Akande H. F "Identification of the Best Soil and Climatic Conditions for Maximum Yield of Stevia Seedlings at Kaduna Polytechnic", IARJSET International Advanced Research Journal in Science, Engineering and Technology, vol. 10, no. 8, pp. 1-10, 2023. Crossref https://doi.org/10.17148/IARJSET.2023.10801

| DOI: 10.17148/IARJSET.2023.10801