Evaluation of Deficit Irrigation Strategies for Water Saving in Maize Production

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Water scarcity necessitates efficient irrigation strategies. This study evaluated deficit irrigation for maize in Kano State. Four irrigation treatments were tested: full irrigation (100% ETc), moderate deficit (75% ETc), severe deficit (50% ETc), and regulated deficit (50% ETc during vegetative stage, 100% during reproductive stage). Results showed that full irrigation produced highest yield (6.2 t/ha) but lowest water productivity (1.2 kg/m3). Regulated deficit irrigation achieved 5.8 t/ha with water productivity of 1.6 kg/m3, representing 25% water saving with only 6% yield reduction. Severe deficit caused 35% yield reduction and was not economically viable. The study recommends regulated deficit irrigation for water-limited conditions, applying full irrigation only during critical reproductive stages.