Seed system and quality estimation of maize (zea mays l.) in humid tropics of southern Ethiopia

The current study was conducted to assess maize seed system and estimate its purity and quality from formal and informal systems in Abaya and Dilla zones during 2015 main cropping season. The study was conducted by using 140 farmers and structured questionnaire to collect information from randomly sampled households of the selected four PAs in two Zones. 40 samples from farmers and 2 kg seed sample were collected from Abaya, and Dilla Agricultural Office each. Six varieties; Jabi, Limu, shone, Bako hybrid-661, Bako hybrid-660, and Bako hybrid-543 were tested in laboratory by using complete randomized design with three replications. The result revealed sample farmers in the areas produce maize both for consumption and marketing purpose and majority of sample farmers got their seed from informal seed system. Farmers in the study areas were constrained to use improved maize seed due to lack of seed quantity, quality, and lack of access to agricultural extension services. Highly significant differences were observed for seed collected from both formal and informal systems for physical purity, and physiological quality components in each location and interaction effects that were found to fulfill the minimum seed quality certification standard set by Quality and Standards Authority of Ethiopia.