Authors : W.B. Akanbi , C.O. Adeboye , A.O. Togun , J.O. Ogunrinde , S.A. Adeyeye , J.A. Akinfasoye and O.A. Olaniran
Abstract: The use of both mineral fertilizer and organic manure has been found to be a sustainable technology for crop production and integration of mineral fertilizer with crop residue compost could further increase crop yield. This assertion was tested in Nigeria by nourishing Telfairia occidentalis with Cassava Peel Compost (CPC) with or without mineral fertilizer. The treatments tested were: 0, 45 and 60 kg N from NPK; 45 and 60 kg N from CPC; 45 kg N from NPK + 15 kg N CPC; 30 kg N from NPK + 30 kg N from CPC and 15 kg N from NPK + 45 kg N from CPC. The treatments were laid out in randomized complete block design replicated thrice. Results obtained were statistical analyzed and significant means separated with Duncan Multiple Range Test (p 0.05). Application of 45 kg N from NPK + 15 kg N from CPC brought about significant improvement in growth, shoot and fruit yield as well as shoot and seed quality of Telfairia occidentalis. This treatment produced herbage yield, shoot protein and N, P and K mineral elements that are similar to what was obtained with application of 60 kg N from NPK alone or joint application of 15 kg N from NPK + 45 kg N from CPC. These results support the concept of synergy between composts and mineral fertilizer and provide further stimulus to employ blends instead of sole application of compost or mineral fertilizer for crop production.
W.B. Akanbi , C.O. Adeboye , A.O. Togun , J.O. Ogunrinde , S.A. Adeyeye , J.A. Akinfasoye and O.A. Olaniran , 2007. Growth, Herbage and Seed Yield and Quality of Telfairia occidentalis as Influenced by Cassava Peel Compost and Mineral Fertilizer . Agricultural Journal, 2: 588-595.