Comparative assessment of the economic returns of the growth of <i>Amaranthus hybridus</i> using organic (sugarcane bagasse based) and inorganic fertilizer (NPK)

Abstract

Amaranthus hybridus is an important vegetable in the human diet because it is a source of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, sugar, water, protein and fiber needed for healthy body growth and sustenance. Poor soil fertility, availability and affordability of inorganic fertilizer have been identified as major constraints to its production. These constraints may be addressed by the use of sugarcane bagasse based manure; hence the field trial to determine the Economic returns of the growth of Amaranthus hybridus. Data was collected on weight of the plant yield (kg), and the result subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The field data was also subjected to Economic analysis using Gross Margin and Cost Benefit Ratio. The ANOVA result shows that Treatment A (Organic) had the mean yield of 3.30 (kg) which was significantly different from B (NPK) 2.21(kg) and C (Control) 1.47 (kg). Similarly, Treatment A had gross margin of 1500 and cost benefit ratio of 10.0; B had gross margin of 880 and cost benefit ratio of 4.4, whilst C had gross margin of 740 and cost benefit ratio of 7.4 respectively; suggesting that the use of sugarcane bagasse based fertilizer appeared more profitable and is recommended for maximum returns.

Keywords: Amaranthus hybridus, gross margin, cost benefit ratio, Odi