The effects of used engine oil pollution of soil on the growth and yield of Arachis hypogea L. and Zea mays L.

Abstract

The effects of used engine oil (UEO) pollution of soil on the growth and yield of Arachis hypogea L. and Zea mays L were studied in the laboratory for 14 and 10 weeks respectively. Five used engine oil levels of 40, 80, 120, 160 and 200ml per 4 Kg of sterilized loamy soil were used and oval (unpolluted soil) was used as the control. The experimental work was undertaken in perforated polythene bags and plastic pots. The study showed that there were significant (P > 0.05) reductions in coefficient of velocity of germination, plant height, leaf area index and yield of both crops. Fertilizer application significantly (P > 0.05) improved leaf area ratio and yield of A. hypogea. The employment of microorganisms (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus cereus) and fertilizer application significantly (P > 0.05) improved the leaf area, coefficient velocity of germination, fresh weight and yield of Zea mays.