Influence of soil texture and compost on the early growth and nutrient uptake of Moringa oleifera Lam

Esther Abosede Ewetola

doi:10.15414/afz.2019.22.02.26-33

Abstract

Influence of soil texture and compost on the early growth and nutrient uptake of Moringa oleifera Lam

Highlights

Moringa oleifera has gained a lot of popularity due to recent discoveries of its usefulness to mankind resulting in rapid growth in interest for the plant
Total N and available P were in the order of loamy sand > clay > sand which is a reflection of the nutrient potential of the soil
Moringa plant height was not affected by soil texture at 2 weeks after sowing (WAS)

Summary

Introduction

Moringa oleifera has gained a lot of popularity due to recent discoveries of its usefulness to mankind resulting in rapid growth in interest for the plant. Moringa is rich in health promoting phytochemicals such as carotenoids, phenolic, various vitamins and minerals (Foidl et al, 2001; Becker and Siddhuraju, 2003; Bennett et al, 2003). It leaves are highly nutritious, one serving of the plant contains 125% calcium, 61% magnesium, 41% potassium, 71% iron, 272% vitamin A and 22% vitamin C daily value, 5–10% crude protein and it does not turn rancid (Fuglie, 2001). Organic materials serve as sources of plant nutrients and as soil conditioners by improving soil physical properties, as evidenced by increased water infiltration, water holding capacity, aeration and permeability, soil aggregation and rooting depth, and by decreased soil crusting, bulk

Methods

Results

Conclusion