Application of Goat Manure Briquettes on Red Chili Cultivation in Coastal Sandy Soil

Abstract

Application of organic matter could prevent a high infiltration problem commonly found in coastal sandy soil. Due to its slow-release properties, organic matter added to this sandy soil may improve the groundwater retention capacity. This study was aimed to investigate the capacity of goat manure briquettes (GMB) in comparison with goat manure to support the productivity of red chili cultivated in coastal sandy soil. The study was carried out in a completely randomized design consisting of 3 doses of goat manure briquettes (GMB) and goat manure (GM) applied (30, 35, 40 tons/ha) with 12 replications. Each dose was applied to the fertilized soils (400 kg/ha urea + 300 kg/ha SP-36 + 300 kg/ha KCl) then incubated for a week. These treated soils were then used for red chili cultivation. Plant growth and yield were monitored and data collected were statistically analysed using DNMRT with significance level of 5%. GMB application showed insignificant effect towards the chili performance in sandy soil. In contrast, GM application revealed higher plant performance and yield. Application of 40 tons/ha GM exhibited the highest fruit weight compared to other treatments. According to these results, the formulation of GM into briquette might reduce its capacity in supporting plant growth.