Ha-1 Poultry Manure Research Articles

Improving Okra Production by Poultry Manure Application in Highland Acid Oxisols of Dschang, Western Cameroon

Problem Statement: Low yields of crops in Sub-saharan Africa are often associated with low soil fertility. However, due to high cost and negative environmental impact of chemical fertilizers, using cheap and readily available organic manures such as poultry manure (PM) has become indispensable. Aim: To evaluate the effect of different rates of PM on soil fertility and the performance of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) in the Cameroon Western Highlands. Methodology: The study was carried out in the field and in the laboratory. The experimental plot (191.25 m2) in the field was designed in a randomized complete block design with six treatments and three replications: 0 t ha-1 of PM (To), 3 t ha-1 of PM (T1), 6 t ha-1 of PM (T2), 9 t ha-1 of PM (T3), 12 t ha-1 of PM (T4), and 250 kg of NPK 12-14-19 (T5). Soil samples were analyzed in the laboratory by standard procedures before and after treatment. Results: Treatment T0 had a clay loam texture, acidic pH (5.4), relatively high organic carbon content (1.92%), moderate total nitrogen (0.33%) and moderate available phosphorus (36.07 mg kg-1). The exchangeable complex revealed high K+ (1.02 cmol kg-1), low Ca2+ (2.60 cmol kg-1) and Mg2+ (1.04 cmol kg-1), average Na+ (0.33 cmol kg-1). After treatment, soil pHH2O, available phosphorus and exchangeable K, Ca, and Mg increased after harvest whereas Na decreased for all the treatments. The effect of the treatments on growth parameters was such that T3>T4>T1>T5>T2>T0. The global trend of yield parameters was such that T3>T4>T5>T1>T0>T2. Economically, treatments T3, T4, and T5 were profitable and recommendable for popularization, with a benefit-to-cost-ratio (BCR) >2. The most economically viable treatment was T3 with a profit rate (PR) of 601.66% and a BCR value of 7.02, while T2 was the least economically viable treatment with a negative PR of -32.14% and a BCR of -33.67. Conclusion: Farmers in Western highlands can produce okra profitably and sustainably using PM at a rate of 9 tha-1f.

Yield Maximization of Rice (Oryza sativa) through Integrated Nutrient Management

This experiment was conducted on a permanent layout at the west byde of BRRI farm, Gazipur during T. Aman 2019 to Boro 2021-22 to find out the suitable management practices for yield maximization of rice and soil health. Seven treatments in Randomized Complete Block (RCB) Design with three replications were imposed and each treatment was assigned in 5m × 4m sized plot. The treatments combinations were T1= Absolute Control (No nutrient supply), T2 = BRRI dose N-P-K-S@83-17-53-12 kg ha-1 in T. Aman and 138-21-75-21 kg ha-1 in Boro season, T3= Soil Test Based (STB) Fertilizer Dose N-P-K-S @ 67-10-40-10 kg ha-1 in T. Aman and 134-16-75-10 kg ha-1 in Boro, T4 = STB dose + 1 t ha-1 Cowdung, T5 = STB dose + 1 t ha-1 Poultry manure, T6 = STB dose + 1 t ha-1 Vermicompost and T7 = STB dose + 0.33 t ha-1 CD + 0.33 t ha-1 PM + 0.33 t ha-1 VC. Thirty-days old seedling of BRRI dhan87 in T. Aman and fourty-two days old seedling of BRRI dhan89 in Boro season were transplanted at 20 cm × 20 cm spacing in both seasons. All manures, soil and plant samples analysis were done by the help of soil Science Division BRRI, Gazipur. Initial soil (0-15 cm depth) properties were: soil texture, clay loam; pH, 6.94; organic Carbon, 1.59%; Nitrogen, 0.18%; Phosphorus, 21.88 ppm and Potassium, 0.19meq/100g soil. Thirty days old seedling of BRRI dhan87 in T. Aman and 42 days old seedling of BRRI dhan89 in Boro season were transplanted at 20cm x 20cm spacing. Grain yield, tiller number, panicle number, plant height and grain number were significantly affected by the different integrated nutrient management during both T. Aman and Boro season. Grain yield, tiller number, panicle number, plant height and grain number were significantly affected by the different nutrient management in both T. Aman and Boro season. Poultry manure related treatments and BRRI recommended dose performed better than the others in all the parameter except 1000-grain weight. On the other hand, Absolute Control (No nutrient supply) produced the lowest result. Every parameter, Poultry manure treatments have been performed the best. STB dose with one t ha-1 poultry manure is better for maximization of rice yield.

Productivity and Profitability of Fodder oat (Avena sativa L.) as Affected by Integrated Nutrient Management: A Review

Fodder oats (Avena sativa L.) is a valuable feed resource for livestock, providing high-quality forage rich in nutrients essential for animal health and productivity. This review summarizes the key components and benefits of integrated nutrient management in fodder oats cultivation. Organic inputs such as farmyard manure, compost, and green manure enhance soil quality while inorganic fertilizers provide essential macro and micronutrients necessary for robust crop growth and yield.Various researchers found that higher green and dry fodder yields were obtained with the application of Farmyard Manure @ 5 t/ha + 50 percent of the recommended dose of fertilizers (329.76- 518.32 q ha-1) and 75% RDF along with 2 t Poultry manure ha-1 (77.57- 91.31 q ha-1 ). While 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF)+Zn + plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR)+residual farm yard manure (R-FYM) and 100%RDF + Zn + R-FYM significantly increased fodder quality traits- Crude protein (9.44-10.10%), ether extract (4.5-5%), total ash yield (33.8-34.6%), ADF and NDF. Uptake of N, K, P, S and Mn by oat crop was highest at 75% NPK+2.5t Vermicompost +10kg Mn+20kg S ha-1. Higher net returns per ha were obtained by integrated nutrient management treatment of FYM @ 5 t/ha + 50 percent of the recommended dose of fertilizers and the application of 75% RDF (60:40 NP) kg ha-1 along with 2 t poultry manure ha-1. Thus Integrated nutrient sources increased the yield and quality of fodder oat besides enhancing profitability.

Effects of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on the Growth and Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

To evaluate the effect of different levels of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the growth and yield of SinThuKha rice variety, the experiment was conducted with randomized complete block (RCB) design by three replications. The experiments were carried out in Water Utilization Research section, Department of Agricultural Research (DAR) at Yezin, Naypyitaw, Myanmar during dry and wet seasons, 2023.The organic sources used were poultry manure and cow dung manure. The treatments were T1 (Control ), T2 (100% RFF) (Recommended Rate of Fertilizer), T3 (6 t ha-1 Cow dung manure) (CM), T4 (6 t ha-1 Poultry Manure) (PM), T5 ( 25% RRF + 4.5 t ha-1 CM), T6 (25% RRF + 4.5 t ha-1 PM ), T7 (50% RRF+ 3 t ha-1 CM), T8 (50% RRF + 3 t ha-1 PM), T9 (75% RRF+1.5 t ha-1 CM), T10 (75% RRF+1.5 t ha-1 PM). It was observed that the grain yields as well as the yield attributing parameters like number of tillers hill-1, panicle length, number of panicles hill-1, number of spikelets panicle-1, filled grain percent were significantly different among different treatments except 1000 grain weight. The maximum grain yield was resulted (796.10 g m2) in dry season and (666.35 g m2) in wet season at T8 treatment (50% RRF + 3 t ha-1 PM). Among the treatments the higher yield of T8 and T10 were observed in both seasons followed by T2, T7 and T9.

Effect of Plant Spacing and Fertilizer Application on Growth and Yield of Bell Pepper (Capsicum annum) in Experimental Farm at Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria

Optimum plant population, natural resources, such as nutrients, sunlight, soil moisture and efficient fertilization are some of the primary factors that ensure satisfactory growth and yield. Hence, the objective of this paper was to investigate the effect of plant spacing and fertilizer application on growth and yield of bell pepper (Capsicum annum) in experimental farm at Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria using appropriate standard techniques. Three levels of spacing (S1=30cm x 50cm, S2=40cm x 50cm and S3 =50cm x 50cm) and four different levels of fertilizer application (F0 = control, F1 = 20 t ha-1 poultry manure, F2 = 300 kg ha-1 NPK 15:15:15 and F3 = 150 kg ha-1 NPK 15:15:15 + 10 t ha-1 were adopted. The parameters measured were plant height, stem diameter, leaf area, number of leaves, number of branches, fresh fruit weight per plant, fresh fruit weight per plot, fruit diameter, fruit length, and number of flowers per plant, number of fruits per plant and fruit yield. The results showed that S3F1, (50cm x 50cm spacing + 20 t ha-1 poultry manure) had the highest plant height and stem diameter and S2F3, (40cm x 50cm spacing + 150 kg ha-1 NPK 15:15:15 and 10 t ha-1) had the highest fruit yield (1731.60 kg ha-1). The lowest yield (994.49 kg ha-1) was obtained at S1F0, (40cm x 50cm spacing + control). Therefore, farmers in this locality could grow bell pepper (Capsicum annum) at S2F3 for increased fruit yield.

Combined influence of ash and poultry manure on soil reaction and performance of maize (<i>Zea mays</i>) in a coarse-textured acid soil of South-East, Nigeria

Crop production can be limited by soil acidity. A two-factor factorial experiment involving three levels each of ash and poultry manure (PM) was conducted to determine the effects of ash and PM on soil reaction and performance of maize in an acid soil. The ash comprised of mixture of ash from wood, cocoa husk and palm bunch. The levels of ash (0.00, 3.00, 6.00 t ha–1 ) and PM (0.00, 4.00, 8.00 t ha–1 ) were combined to obtain nine treatment combinations (control, 3.00 ash and 0.00 PM, 3.00 ash and 4.00 PM, 3.00 ash and 8.00 PM, 0.00 ash and 4.00 PM, 3.00 ash and 0.00 PM) which were replicated thrice. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design. Soil samples were collected at 3, 6, 9 and 12 weeks after planting (WAP), plant height measured at 3, 5, 7, and 9 WAP while cob oven-dry weight was measured after oven-drying harvested cobs at maturity. Analysis of variance was conducted on the data collected using GenStat version 14. The highest plant height of 132.50 cm at 12 WAP and the highest oven-dry cob weight of 7.15 t ha–1 were obtained from plots treated with 6.00 and 8.00 t ha-1 of ash and PM, respectively, and these were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) different from the other treatments. The lowest exchangeable acidity of 1.33 cmol kg–1 which varied significantly (p ≤ 0.05) from the other values observed at the other plots was obtained at the plot treated with the combination of 6.00 and 4.00 t ha–1 of ash and PM, respectively at 12 WAP. The combination of ash and PM at 3.00 and 8.00 t ha–1 gave the highest pH of 6.80, and this was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) different from the other treatments. Therefore, ash and PM at varying levels of combination can simultaneously ameliorate soil acidity and improve maize performance; however, the best combination of ash and PM application which showed the potential to produce optimum effect in simultaneously ameliorating soil acidity and increasing maize performance was the combination of 6.00 tonnes of ash and 8.00 tonnes of PM.

Optimizing Nutrient Management Practices for Cauliflower in Hill Zone of West Bengal: An Integrated Approach

A set of experiments was conducted at Hill Zone of West Bengal, Kalimpong for two seasons (2019 & 2020) to standardize integrated nutrient management for optimum growth and yield of cauliflower. Different organic nutrient sources, such as farm yard manure (FYM), poultry manure (PM), and vermicompost (VC), were used to partially replace the recommended dose of chemical fertilizer. The treatments we used were as follows: T1= N120 P60 K60 (RDF), T2= 75% RDF+25% N through FYM (FYM@ 6 t ha-1), T3= 75% RDF+25% N through VC (VC@ 2 t ha-1), T4= 75% RDF+25% N through (PM@ 1.25 t ha-1), T5= 75% RDF+25% N through FYM + Foliar spray of B, T6= 75% RDF+25% N through FYM + Soil application of B, T7= 75% RDF+25% N through VC + Foliar spray of B, T8= 75% RDF+25% N through VC + Soil application of B, T9= 75% RDF+25% N through PM + Foliar spray of B, T10= 75% RDF+25% N through PM + Soil application of B. The treatments were set up in a randomized block design with three replication. The treatments had a significant (P<0.05) effect on cauliflower yield and soil-available macro and micronutrients due to integrated nutrient management. The maximum plant height (45.9 cm), curd wt. plant-1 (537.2 g), stalk wt. plant-1 (227.3 g), and curd yield (162.1q ha-1) was achieved with T9 treatment i.e 75% RDF+25% N through PM + Foliar spray of B. Therefore, application of 75 percent of RDF and 1.25 t ha-1 poultry manure along with foliar spray of boron at 25 and 40 days after transplanting is recommended.

Evaluation of durum wheat cultivars under certified organic production in the Yaqui Valley, Sonora, Mexico

Durum wheat cultivars Don Lupe Oro C2020 and the regional check CIRNO C2008, and Baroyeca Oro C2013 and the check, were evaluated for grain yield during the crop seasons 2021-2022 and 2022-2023, respectively, in a plot with organic certification, at the Norman E. Borlaug Experimental Station in the Yaqui Valley, Sonora, Mexico. For the first season, land preparation consisted of three passes of harrowing, leveling, and making beds 80 cm apart with three rows. Fertilizer was not applied since the previous crop was chickpea which had been fertilized with 5 t ha-1 of poultry manure. Sowing was carried out on December 2, 2021, with a seed density of 120 kg ha-1; one pre-sowing and three complementary irrigations were applied. For 2022-2023, the land was managed as in the previous season, except for the application of the granulated compost BIDA. Sowing was carried out on November 23, 2022, with a seed density of 100 kg ha-1 in beds with two rows. One pre-sowing and four complementary irrigations were applied. Don Lupe Oro C2020 showed an average of 5.051 t ha-1, while CIRNO C2008 5.641. Baroyeca Oro C2013 showed an average grain yield of 6.904 t ha-1, while the check 8.056. Despite the lower yield of both cultivars in relation to CIRNO C2008, they are resistant to leaf rust and the average b Minolta value of the pigment of semolina is 30.8, therefore, they are good candidates to be cultivated under organic agriculture.

Comparative Economic of Different Weed Control Methods and Poultry Manure Rates among Different Maize (Zea mays L.) varieties

Different Field experiment was conducted during the 2016 and 2017 rainy season to evaluate the efficacy of different weed control methods and poultry manure rates on yield and economic returns in three varieties of maize (SAMMAZ 15, SAMMAZ 21 and SAMMAZ 35) at Kano in Sudan savanna zone of Nigeria. The trials consisted of six weed control methods (S-Metolachlor 290 g/L + Atrazine 370 g/L at 2.0kg a.i. ha-1 followed by Nicosulfuron at 100 g a.i.ha-1, S-Metolachlor 290g/L + Atrazine 370 g/L at 2.0kg a.i. ha-1 followed by Bentazone 480 g/L at 2.5kg a.i. ha-1, Metolachlor 375 g/L + Terbuthylazine 125 g/L + Mesotrione 37.5 g/L at 2.5 kg a.i ha-1 followed by Nicosulfuron at 0.1 kg a.i. ha-1, Metolachlor 375g/L + Terbuthylazine 125 g/L + Mesotrione 37.5 g/L at 2.5kg a.i ha-1 followed by Bentazone at 2.5kg a.i. ha-1, two hoe weeded at 3 and 6 WAS and Weedy check) and three levels of poultry manure (0, 4, and 8 t ha-1 and a recommended NPK fertilizer as check at the rate of 120 kg N, 60 kg P2O5 and 60 kg K2O ha-1). The experiment was laid out in a split-split plot design with variety allocated to the main plot, poultry manure to the sub-plot while weed control method to the sub-sub plot, and was replicated three times. The result from the study showed that Metolachlor 290g/L + Atrazine 370 g/L at 2.0kg a.i. ha-1 followed by Bentazone at 2.5kg a.i. ha-1 in combination with 8 t ha-1 poultry manure suppressed weed infestation and increased the growth and grain yield of maize. Net income was higher when herbicide in combination with poultry manure at 8 t ha-1 was used.

Effect of Source and Rate of Livestock Manure on Yield, Quality and Net Economic Benefit of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench.)

Okra farmers use inorganic fertilizers which are expensive, they result to water pollution, increases the soil acidity, which affects soil nutrients availability and uptake as well as reducing microbial activity. Organic manure improves soil physical, chemical and biological properties, and are environmental friendly. However, farmers have limited information on the utilization of these organic manure sources on growth yield, quality and net economic benefit of okra. A study was conducted to determine the effects of rate cattle, goat and poultry manure on okra growth, yield, quality and net economic benefit at KALRO-Kandara Centre in Murang’a County between 2018 and 2019. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications for two cultivations. There were 10 treatments, i.e., 0, 3, 6 and 7 tonne ha-1 for cattle and goat manure, and 0, 3, 5 and 7 tonnes ha-1 poultry manure that were applied before planting okra variety Pusa Sawani. Data collected included yield characteristics total fresh pod yield and quality characteristics mainly total soluble solids (TSS). Data collected was subjected to analysis of variance using SAS statistical software version 9.4 and significantly different means were separated using LSD at α = 0.05. The results showed that there was significant effect of treatments (p < 0.05) on yield, quality and net economic benefit of okra. Poultry manure at the rate of 5t ha-1 recorded highest yield while control had the least. Goat manure at the rate of 6 tonnes ha-1 recorded the highest total soluble solids, hence, produced pods of the highest quality of 3.18°Brix and 3.21°Brix for Trial 1 and Trial 2, respectively, whereas the control produced pods of lowest quality of 2.31°Brix and 2.34°Brix for Trial 1 and Trial 2, respectively. Cattle manure at the rate of 6 tonnes ha-1 recorded the best net economic benefit of Ksh. 700,267 in Trial 1 and Ksh. 694,320 in Trial 2, while the control gave minimal returns of Ksh. 69,158 in Trial 1 and Ksh. 64,320 in Trial 2. This indicates an increase of net economic benefit of Ksh. 631,109 in Trial 1 and Ksh. 630,000 in Trial 2 for cattle manure compared to the control. The results of this study clearly indicate that in okra production, application of different types of animal organic manure can improve the productivity of the okra. The study recommends application of 5 tonnes ha-1 poultry manure, or 6 tonnes ha-1 of goat or cattle manure for best growth, yield, quality and net economic benefit of okra.

Measuring the Influence of Seedling Age and Nutrient Sources on the Performance of Sweet Corn (Zea mays L.) under Temperate Climatic Conditions.

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of the age of a seedling and sources of nutrients on the growth and yield of sweet corn at SKUAST-K during Kharif-2020. The experiment was performed under a factorial arrangement in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Factor A was the age of the seedling with three levels, viz., 12-day-old seedlings, 22-day-old seedlings, and 32-day-old seedlings. Factor B was the source of nutrients with five levels, viz., control, recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), 1/2 RDF + 12 t ha-1 farmyard manure, 1/2 RDF + 4 t ha-1 vermicompost, and 1/2 RDF + 2 t ha-1 poultry manure. The experiment was tested using variety Sugar-75 with a spacing of 75 × 20 cm2. The findings of this study indicated that the age of the seedling and sources of nutrients extended a significant influence on growth parameters, yield attributes, and yield of sweet corn. Significantly highest values for various growth parameters of sweet corn, viz., plant height, number of functional leaves, leaf area index (LAI), and dry matter accumulation from 30 days after transplanting up to the harvest, were noted by transplanting A2 seedlings (22 day old). A similar trend was observed for yield attributes and yield with higher values with transplanting A2 seedlings (22 day old). Plots fertilized with 1/2 RDF + 2 t ha-1 poultry manure registered a significantly higher plant height, leaf area index (LAI), dry matter accumulation, and number of functional leaves, which eventually resulted in a higher green cob yield and green fodder yield under the same treatment. Overall, this study indicated that among different ages of seedlings, transplanting A2 seedlings (22 day old) outperformed other seedling ages, and plots treated with 1/2 RDF + 2 t ha-1 poultry manure outperformed other treatments; a combination of both proved superior in realizing a higher yield and profitability with a benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 6.57 under temperate climatic conditions.

PRODUCTIVITY OF MAIZE/COWPEA MIXED-INTERCROPPING AS INFLUENCED BY POULTRY MANURE, NITROGEN MANAGEMENT AND COWPEA VARIETIES IN SAMARU

The study assessed the profitability of maize/cowpea intercropping in Samaru. The data was obtained from a field research carried out in the Research and Teaching farm of the Institute for Agricultural Research, Samaru, Zaria, during the 2018 and 2019 cropping seasons. The treatment consisted of three rates of poultry manure (0, 3 and 6 tons/ha), two ways of split N application to maize (two split dose and three split dose), and two cowpea genotypes arranged in a split plot design replicated four times. Results from the research showed that both poultry manure and triple split N dosage application significantly increased maize and cowpea yield in both years; with best economic results obtained with the application of 3 tons ha-1 of poultry manure. Assessment of the suitability of the intercropping system as defined by Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) and Relative Yield (RY) showed that higher yields were obtained from the intercrop compared to the sole as reflected in the LER values being more than one (1) units. Application of 3 tons ha-1 of poultry manure gave the highest gross margin (GM) with a corresponding return on investment (ROI) of 59% indicating that for every naira invested in the venture (ie 3 tons ha-1), five (5) naira eighty nine kobo (5.89) profit was realized. Research therefore recommended the application of 3 tons ha-1 of poultry manure in addition to double split of 45 kg ha-1 of nitrogen fertilizer at 2 and 4 WAS to achieve maximum economics benefits of maize-cowpea intercropping system in Savanna Alfisols

Effects of Biochar and Poultry Manure Amendments on Soil Physical and Chemical Properties, Growth and Sweet Potato Yield in Degraded Alfisols of Humid Tropics

Information on the impact of biochar and poultry manure on soil characteristics and sweet potato productivity in the humid tropics is lacking. Hence, field experiments were conducted at two locations during the 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons to assess the effects of biochar (B), poultry manure (PM), and their mixture on soil physical and chemical properties, growth and tuber yield of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) Each year, the experiment consisted of 4 × 3 factorial combinations of biochar (0, 10.0, 20.0 and 30.0 t ha-1) and poultry manure (0, 5.0 and 10.0 t ha-1). The findings revealed that using B and PM alone, as well as in combination, improved soil physical and chemical qualities, as well as sweet potato performance. Significant interactions of B and PM (B × PM) were observed on soil characteristics and sweet potato variables that were measured in both years, showing B’s potential in enhancing PM use efficiency. Pooled over two years, application of the highest dosage of 30.0 t ha-1 B + 10.0 t ha-1 PM significantly increased tuber yield of sweet potato compared with other treatments. The multiple regressions showed that both soil physical (bulk density, porosity and moisture content) and chemical (pH, OC, TN, P, K, Ca, and Mg) properties had a significant impact on sweet potato leaf area and tuber yield. The findings indicated that B and PM have the ability to improve soil quality and sweet potato production. Keywords: Biochar; Poultry manure; Soil properties; Sweet potato; Alfisols

Integrated Nitrogen Management on Weed Growth and Yield Performance of Transplant Aman Rice

Rice requires nitrogen in larger quantities than any other nutrient, and it is the most critical limiting factor that influences grain yield. But inappropriate sources and management of nitrogen is considered to be the most critical one among the various reasons of low rice productivity. In order to address the problem, an experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Field Laboratory, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, during June to October 2020 to determine the effect of integrated nitrogen management (INM) on weed growth and yield of transplant aman rice. The experiment comprised five aman rice varieties, viz. Binadhan-7 (V1), BRRI dhan56 (V2), BRRI dhan66 (V3), BRRI dhan71 (V4) and BRRI dhan75 (V5) and four nitrogen management approaches: control (no nitrogen) (N0), 100% of recommended dose (RD) of nitrogenous fertilizer as prilled urea (150 kg ha-1) (N1), 2.5 t ha-1 poultry manure + 75% of RD of nitrogenous fertilizer as prilled urea (112.5 kg ha-1) (N2) and application of USG (1.8 g per 4 hills) (N3). Results reveal that maximum weed density and dry weight were found in BRRI dhan56 whereas minimum ones were observed in BRRI dhan66. In case of INM, application of 100% of RD of nitrogenous fertilizer as prilled urea showed maximum weed density and dry weight but minimum ones were found with application of USG. In combine, weed density and dry weight were found highest in BRRI dhan56 with 100% of RD of urea and the lowest weed density was found in BRRI dhan66 with no nitrogen treatment at 20 DAT and in BRRI dhan66 with application of USG at 35 DAT and lowest weed dry weight was obtained from Binadhan-7 with application of USG (1.8 g per 4 hills) at 20 and 35 DAT. Variety Binadhan-7 showed superior performance in terms of yield and yield attributes. Application of USG showed the highest number of grains panicle-1 and grain yield. Interaction of Binadhan-7 with application of USG produced highest number of grains panicle-1 (116.60), highest grain yield (5.21 t ha-1), biological yield (10.94 t ha-1), harvest index (47.65%) and highest BCR (1.57). So, results indicated that Binadhan-7 with application of USG (1.8 g per 4 hills) might be recommended for obtaining highest grain yield with higher nitrogen use efficiency, highest BCR as well as to control weed more effectively in aman season.

Weed Dynamics, Productivity and Profitability of Transplanted Aman Rice as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management and Weeding Regime

The excessive and improper application of fertilizers is the key factor contributing to nutrient losses to the environment and a decrease in the fertility of the soil. Also, using the wrong herbicide, applying higher than the recommended rate, or improper timing of application can cause crop damage. These factors adversely affect soil productivity and environmental stability. There is thus a need to expand an effective and inexpensive integrated nutrient management and weed control practice for acquiring better yields and profit from rice. The aim of the study was to find out the effect of six integrated nutrient management i.e., BRRI Recommended Dose (RD) of chemical fertilizer, 50% RD + 5 t of cowdung ha-1, 50% RD + 10 t of cowdung ha-1, 50% RD + 2.5 t of poultry manure ha-1, 50% RD + 5 t of poultry manure ha-1, USG 1.8 g 4 hills-1 + TSP, MoP, Gypsum and ZnSO4 @RD along with four weeding regimes i.e., control (no weeding), pre-emergence herbicide followed by one hand weeding at 30 DAT, early post-emergence herbicide followed by one hand weeding at 30 DAT, pre-emergence herbicide followed by early post-emergence herbicide on weed control, rice productiveness, and profitability. Our findings suggest that the application of 50% of the RD of chemical fertilizer + 5 t of poultry manure ha-1 with the application of pre-emergence herbicide followed by early post-emergence herbicide enhances weed suppression and provides higher rice productivity and profitability and can be practiced for the maximization of the yield and net return of transplanted aman rice.

Influence of some Bio chars and organic fertilizers on some biological parameters of sweet corn (Zea mays L.) at Sulaimani Governorate, IKR.

This study was conducted in July 2021 until October 2022 at kanipanka research farm, Sulaimani governorate, IKR with GPS readings of 350 22’ 25.3” N, 450 43’ 24.5” E to test, the influence of five levels (0, 14, 28, 42 and 56 ton ha-1) of some treatments such as control (a1), rise husk bio char (a2), oak charcoal (a3) and poultry manure (a5) which equivalent to 0, 0.4, 0.8, 1.2 and 1.6% w/w% of soil, also five levels (0, 12.5, 25, 37.5 and 50 kg ha-1) of Humic acid (a4) to examine the quantity and quality of sweet corn. Additionally 240kg ha-1 of triple super phosphate was added to each experimental unit. The result showed that the poultry manure has a great effect on sweet corn compared to biochars due to high content of phosphorus and nitrogen in poultry manure, also biochars such as rice husk and charcoal were effect on TSS%, P concentration in seed and plants. The highest yield (20.61ton ha-1) was recorded from the interaction treatments of (42 ton ha-1) of poultry manure, also the highest protein %, oil % and chlorophyll content (14.90%, 5.93% and 44.80 SPAD value) were recorded from the interaction treatments of 56 ton ha-1 of poultry manure.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management Approach on Growth, Yield, and Economics of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var botrytis)

The integrated nutrient management approach addresses the issues arising from the irrational use of chemical fertilizers such as soil quality degradation, and the unsustainability of productivity and profitability. In this study, we evaluated the effect of the integrated nutrient management approach on the growth, yield, and economics of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var botrytis cv. Khumal Jyapu), through a field experiment in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications and seven treatments- 50% NPK + 6.90 Mt ha-1 vermicompost, 75% NPK + 3.45 Mt ha-1 vermicompost, 50% NPK + 3.75 Mt ha-1 poultry manure, 75% NPK + 1.88 Mt ha-1 poultry manure, 50% NPK + 20.80 Mt ha-1 farmyard manure, 75% NPK + 10.40 Mt ha-1 farmyard manure and 100% recommended NPK, 200:120:80 kg NPK ha-1 as the control. Among the tested treatments, organic and inorganic nutrient sources, in combination, recorded a significant influence on growth and yield-attributing characters as compared to sole inorganic treatment. 50% NPK + 6.9 Mt ha-1 vermicompost recorded highest height (63.33 cm), earliest harvest (73.67 days), largest curd diameter (16.83 cm), highest curd weight (680.53 g), biomass (1384.79 g), curd yield (25.2 Mt ha-1), gross margin (NRs.10,08,000 ha-1), net return (NRs. 6,91,944 ha-1) and B:C ratio (3.19). Desirable growth parameters, higher yield, cost-effectiveness, and profitability from 50% NPK + 6.90 Mt ha-1 vermicompost show that the use of vermicompost is economically viable. Results also show that farmers can reduce chemical fertilizer costs by up to 50% using vermicompost without affecting profitability.

Influence of Organic and Inorganic Nitrogen on the Growth and Yield of Wheat

To assess the effects of organic and inorganic N fertilizers regarding wheat yield and growth a field experiment was carried out from November 2019 to March 2020 at the Agronomy Field Laboratory, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. There were three replications of the experiment, which was set up using a randomized full block design. The experiment comprises four varieties viz. BARI Gom-28, BARI Gom-30, BARI Gom-31, BARI Gom-32 and five levels of N viz. Control, 90 kg N ha-1 from prilled urea (PU), 57 kg N ha-1 from prilled urea (PU) + 3 t ha-1 poultry manure (PM) as organic N source, 62 kg N ha-1 from PU + 5 t ha-1 cowdung as organic N source, 29 Kg N ha-1 from PU + 4 t ha-1 vermicompost as organic N source. The outcome of the experiment revealed that there were substantial differences in the growth and yield of wheat due to different varietal effects and application of organic and inorganic nitrogen fertilizers, although some of the attributes were not found significant. At growth, BARI Gom-32 produced the highest number of total tillers hill-1 and leaf area index, while the highest number of total tillers hill-1 and leaf area index were obtained from 57 kg N ha-1 from PU and 3 t ha-1 PM at 20, 40, 60 and 80 DAS. At harvest, the highest number of effective tillers plant-1 (2.82), filled grain spike-1 (32.06), 1000-grain weight (61.07 g), grain yield (3.94 t ha-1), straw yield (5.85 t ha-1) and harvest index (40.11%) were obtained from BARI Gom-32. While, application of 57 kg N ha-1 from PU and 3 t ha-1 PM produced the tallest plant (95.49 cm), number of total tillers plant-1 (3.96), number of effective tillers plant-1 (3.20), filled grain spike-1 (36.61), 1000-grain weight (60.18 g from T5), grain yield (4.34 t ha-1), straw yield (6.23 t ha-1) and harvest index (41.07%). Again, the maximum number of total tillers plant-1 (4.06), number of effective tillers plant-1 (3.46), filled grain spike-1 (39.13), 1000-grain weight (64.62 g), grain yield (4.38 t ha-1), straw yield (6.27 t ha-1 ) and harvest index (41.16%) were found from BARI Gom-32 in combination with 57 kg N ha-1 from prilled urea and 3 t ha-1 poultry manure. Therefore, it can be concluded that BARI Gom-32 in combination with 57 kg N ha-1 from prilled urea and 3 t ha-1 poultry manure was more potential in terms of yield and would be suggested for the cultivation of wheat.

Nutritional qualities of Kapok (Ceiba pentandra L. Gaertn.) in response to fertilizer management

Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn, is a leafy vegetable that is under-utilized due to lack of information about the nutritional potential and agronomic practices. Minerals, vitamins, and protein content of succulent leaves of C. pentandra plants grown under different fertilizer rates (Control (No fertilizer), 5 t ha-1 of poultry manure (PM) + 200 kg ha-1 of NPK, 10 t ha-1 of PM, 20 t ha-1 of PM, 450 kg ha-1 of NPK, and 20 t ha-1 of PM + 100 kg ha-1 of NPK) in the Department of Crop Science Garden, University of Nigeria, Nsukka were evaluated using standard analytical procedures in a replicated trial. Analysis of variance indicated a non-significant effect of fertilizer rates on vitamin contents assessed. Protein and the minerals evaluated showed non-significant response to fertilizer except zinc and calcium. Highest concentration of zinc (0.46 mg/100g) was attributed to 20 t ha-1 of PM which was statistically similar to 0.43 and 0.42 mg/100g obtained from leaves of plants grown without fertilizer and 5 t ha-1 of PM + 200 kg ha-1 of NPK, respectively. Soil amendment at 5 t ha-1 of PM + 200 kg ha-1 of NPK resulted in high accumulation of calcium (145.00 mg/100g). Conclusively, application of 20 t ha-1 of PM or 5 t ha-1 of PM + 200 kg ha-1 of NPK may be appropriate for growing C. pentandra. The study established that C. pentandra can be brought under regular cultivation culture without compromising the nutritional quality.

EFFECT OF POULTRY MANURE AND FARMYARD MANURE WITH AND WITHOUT CHEMICAL FERTILIZERS ON THE GROWTH AND YIELD OF BRRI DHAN28

A field experiment was conducted at the Agrotechnology Field Laboratory of Khulna University, Khulna during boro season of 2005 to find out the effects of poultry manure (PM) and farmyard manure (FYM) in presence and absence of chemical fertilizers on BRRI dhan28. The experiment was laid-out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. There were ten treatments viz. T1: 100% RFD (Recommended fertilizer doses), T2: 100% RFD+10 t FYM, T3: 100% RFD+ 5 t FYM, T4: 50% RFD+5 t FYM, T5: 10 t FYM, T6: 100% RFD + 5 t PM, T7: 100% RFD+ 2.5 t PM, T8: 50% RFD+ 2.5 t PM, T9: 5 t PM and T10: Control (without manures and fertilizers). The doses of inorganic fertilizers N, P, K, S and Zn were 80, 50, 40, 10 and 5 kg ha-1. All the combined application of manures and fertilizers significantly increased the plant height, number of tiller hill-1, dry matter hill-1, grain and straw yield over the control. The highest grain yield was recorded in 100% RFD + 5 t PM treated plot which was similar to 100% RFD+10 t FYM treated plot, while the lowest yield was recorded in the control. Half of the recommended doses of fertilizer with 5 t ha-1 farmyard manure or 2.5 t ha-1 poultry manure produced statistically similar grain yields as produced by RFD which indicates that 50% of the fertilizers can be replaced by PM or FYM without any loss of grain yield.