Comparative analysis of poultry manure and inorganic fertilizer on the growth of glycine max (Soybean)

Abstract

This study investigated the comparative effects of poultry manure and inorganic fertilizer on the growth performance of two soybean (Glycine max) varieties, TGS 1835 and TGX 1345, under controlled conditions in Kano, Nigeria. The experiment followed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Treatments included varying rates of NPK fertilizer (0, 1.3 g/pot, 1.5 g/pot, and 2 g/pot) and poultry manure mixtures (ratios of 5:1, 4:1, and 3:1 soil to manure). Growth parameters assessed included stem height, number of leaves, number of branches, chlorophyll content, and leaf area at 2, 4, and 6 weeks after planting (WAP). Data collected were analyzed using two-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and means were separated using Least Significant Difference (LSD) at a 5% probability level. The results from this study reveal that the application of inorganic fertilizer, particularly at 1.3 g/pot, significantly enhances plant height, chlorophyll content, and leaf area. Similarly, poultry manure at a 5:1 ratio improves growth parameters compared to other organic treatments. Variety TGS 1835 consistently shows higher performance across all growth parameters compared to TGX 1345. These findings suggest that the combined and appropriate use of poultry manure and inorganic fertilizer can improve soybean growth and contribute to sustainable crop production in nutrient-depleted soils.