Response of maize (Zea mays L.) to different rates of wood-ash application in acid ultisol in Southeast Nigeria

Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important cereal crop in southeast Nigeria. Yet few data exists on the effect of soil acidity on its production. A field study was conducted in 2007 and 2008 cropping seasons to determine the effect of different rates of wood ash on soil properties and maize grain yield. Results of the study showed significant difference (p < 0.05) in soil pH, ECEC (Cmolkg-1), OM%, total N%, aggregate stability%, among treatments in both seasons while dispersion ratio (DR) was not significant in the second season. Organic maize grain yield varied significantly among treatments except at 4 and 6 t ha-1 in both seasons. Wood ash application generally improved soil properties which in turn enhanced maize grain yield.