Growth and yield performance of two okra (Abelmoschus esculentus l.) varieties under organic amendments in an Ultisol of Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

A field study was conducted to evaluate the response of two okra varieties to the effects of organic amendments. Maha F1 and Nsukka local varieties of okra were grown in soil amended with 20 t/ha Rice Husk + 10 t/ha Poultry Manure, 10 t/ha poultry manure and no amendment (control), arranged as 2 x 3 treatment combinations laid out as a split-plot experiment in a Randomized Complete Block Design and replicated 3 times. The parameters measured were plant height, number of leaves, number of fruits, fresh fruit weight, pod length and pod girth at various weeks. The results showed that the soil fertility status of the cropping site improved upon application of the amendments compared to the unamended plots. Application of 20 t/ha RH + 10 t/ha PM and 10 t/ha PM generally increased all parameters compared to the control. However, no significant P > 0.05 influence by amendments on plant height, number of leaves, number of fruits and fruit weight across weeks was observed. Significant P < 0.05 varietal influence was observed on plant height, number of fruits and fresh fruit weight at different weeks. Soil amendments and varieties recorded no significant P > 0.05 effect on the pod length and girth of okra at 10 and 12 weeks. There was no observed significant P > 0.05 amendment x variety interaction effect on okra plants across parameters. These results showed that okra cultivation is feasible in nutrient-deficient Ultisol in southeastern Nigeria by using inexpensive and locally available organic amendments.