Effect of different rates of organic manure on the performance of okra (<i>Abelmoschus esculentus</i> l.) in Sokoto Sudan Savanna, Nigeria

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted during 2007/2008 and 2008/2009 dry seasons at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching and Research Farm, Kwalkwalawa to study the effect of different rates of organic manure on the performance of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) in Sudan Savanna. The treatments consisted of four rates of organic manure (0, 5, 10 and 15 t ha^-1) laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) replicated three times. Data were collected on number of branches per plant, leaves/plant, leaf area index and days to 50% flowering. Results showed that all parameters measured increased at all sampling dates and there was significant difference among the rates. Okra plants treated with 15 t ha^-1 had the highest number of branches and days to 50% flowering, while those treated with no manure had the least values for the parameters measured. The application of organic manure rate of 15 t ha^-1 to okra seems to have highest mean values for all the parameters measured except in the leaf area index where 10 t ha^-1 significantly produced higher leaf area index. Thus, application of 15 t ha^-1 is recommended for farmers growing okra in this zone.