Effects of Biochar, Vermicompost, and Inorganic N-P Nutrients on Soil Physical Properties, Maize Growth, and Yield in Northwest Ethiopia

Description:
This dataset contains the numerical results and validation data from the associated study. It provides a comprehensive record of soil physical properties (before planting and after two years of field experimentation), maize crop growth measurements (leaf area and leaf area index), harvest index, and grain yield. Crop-related data were collected over two growing seasons, while soil data are presented for the initial state and after the two-year experimental period.
Data Processing and Software Compatibility:
The data were checked for normality using the Shapiro–Wilk test, and homogeneity of variance was tested using Levene’s test. Multiple linear regression assumptions were evaluated using the Variance Inflation Factor (VIF). Statistical analyses were performed using SAS 9.4, employing the PROC GLM procedure. Mean comparisons were conducted using the Least Significant Difference (LSD) test at P < 0.05. Lettering for mean separation was computed using factorial analysis in Statistix 8.1. Economic analysis was performed via partial budget analysis, including calculation of the marginal rate of return.
Dataset Includes:
Table 1: Selected soil physical properties determined and analyzed in this study. Table 2: Leaf area (normalized, coded data) for the 2023/24 and 2024/25 farming seasons. Table 3: Leaf area index (normalized, coded data) for the 2023/24 and 2024/25 farming seasons. Table 4: Harvest index (normalized, coded data) for the 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons. Table 5: Maize grain yields (normalized, coded data) for the 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons.
Table 6: Correlation analysis between two-year crop mean data and after-harvest soil physical properties.
This dataset provides a comprehensive resource for understanding the effects of integrated nutrient management on soil physical properties and maize performance in Northwest Ethiopia. It can be used for further research, comparative studies, or modeling purposes, and serves as a reference for improving maize productivity through the combined use of biochar, vermicompost, and inorganic N-P fertilizers.