Volume 03 Issue 08-2023
5
American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations
(ISSN
–
2771-2559)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
08
Pages:
5-9
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
7.
471
)
OCLC
–
1290679216
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
ABSTRACT
This research investigates the response of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) varieties to different fertilization
methods in the Sudan Savanna Ecological Zone of Kebbi State. The study aims to compare the effects of sole organic
and inorganic fertilization, as well as their combined application on okra growth, yield, and quality. Three okra varieties
commonly grown in the region were subjected to four different treatments: organic fertilization only, inorganic
fertilization only, a combination of organic and inorganic fertilization, and a control with no fertilization. The
experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data on plant height,
leaf area, flowering, fruiting, and yield parameters were recorded throughout the growing season. Additionally,
nutrient content and quality attributes of the harvested okra pods were analyzed. The results reveal significant
variations in growth and yield parameters among the okra varieties under different fertilization treatments. This study
sheds light on the most effective fertilization approach for enhancing okra productivity in the Sudan Savanna
Ecological Zone, thereby contributing valuable information for sustainable agriculture practices in the region.
KEYWORDS
Okra, Abelmoschus esculentus, Sudan Savanna Ecological Zone, Kebbi State, fertilization, organic fertilizers,
inorganic fertilizers, comparative study, growth, yield, quality, sustainable agriculture.
INTRODUCTION
Research Article
FERTILIZATION EFFECTS ON OKRA VARIETIES IN SUDAN SAVANNA
ECOLOGICAL ZONE OF KEBBI STATE: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF
ORGANIC AND INORGANIC METHODS
Submission Date:
July 28, 2023,
Accepted Date:
Aug 02, 2023,
Published Date:
Aug 07, 2023
Crossref doi:
https://doi.org/10.37547/ajahi/Volume03Issue08-02
Salman Nasser
Department of Agricultural and Bioenvironmental Engineering, Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic Birnin
Kebbi, Nigeria
Journal
Website:
https://theusajournals.
com/index.php/ajahi
Copyright:
Original
content from this work
may be used under the
terms of the creative
commons
attributes
4.0 licence.
Volume 03 Issue 08-2023
6
American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations
(ISSN
–
2771-2559)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
08
Pages:
5-9
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
7.
471
)
OCLC
–
1290679216
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) is an
important vegetable crop widely cultivated in tropical
and subtropical regions due to its nutritional value and
economic significance. In Nigeria, including the Sudan
Savanna Ecological Zone of Kebbi State, okra is a
popular and essential part of the local diet. The
region's favorable climate and soil conditions provide
suitable conditions for okra cultivation, making it a vital
source of income and sustenance for many farmers in
the area.
A key factor that influences the productivity and
quality of okra crops is the application of appropriate
fertilizers. Fertilization plays a critical role in providing
essential nutrients to plants, supporting their growth,
and optimizing yield. Farmers in the Sudan Savanna
Ecological Zone have traditionally used both organic
and inorganic fertilizers to enhance okra production.
However, the comparative effects of these fertilization
methods on different okra varieties have not been
thoroughly studied in this specific agroecological zone.
The demand for sustainable and environmentally
friendly agricultural practices has prompted the need
to explore and identify the most suitable fertilization
strategies for okra cultivation in this region. Organic
fertilizers, such as compost and manure, offer
numerous advantages, including improved soil
structure, enhanced nutrient retention, and reduced
environmental impact. On the other hand, inorganic
fertilizers can provide a quick and precise supply of
specific nutrients, potentially leading to higher yields.
Nevertheless, excessive or improper use of inorganic
fertilizers may result in soil degradation, water
pollution, and decreased soil fertility over time.
This study aims to address the knowledge gap
regarding the response of okra varieties to different
fertilization methods in the Sudan Savanna Ecological
Zone of Kebbi State. By conducting a comparative
analysis of sole organic, sole inorganic, and combined
organic and inorganic fertilization, we seek to identify
the most effective approach to maximize okra growth,
yield, and quality, while also considering the
sustainability and environmental implications of these
fertilization practices.
The outcomes of this research will provide valuable
insights for local farmers, agronomists, and
policymakers to make informed decisions on
fertilization
strategies,
fostering
sustainable
agricultural practices and supporting food security in
the region. Additionally, this study's findings may
contribute to the optimization of okra production
systems in similar agroecological zones worldwide,
further enhancing global agricultural sustainability.
METHOD
Study Area Selection:
The study was conducted in the Sudan Savanna
Ecological Zone of Kebbi State, Nigeria. Specific sites
within the region were chosen based on their
suitability for okra cultivation and accessibility to
ensure the representativeness of the findings.
Selection of Okra Varieties:
Three commonly grown okra varieties in the region
were selected for the study. Varieties with known
adaptability and agronomic performance in the local
conditions were preferred to ensure reliable and
relevant results.
Experimental Design:
A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was
employed for the experiment. Each okra variety was
assigned randomly to four different fertilization
treatments, including sole organic fertilization, sole
Volume 03 Issue 08-2023
7
American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations
(ISSN
–
2771-2559)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
08
Pages:
5-9
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
7.
471
)
OCLC
–
1290679216
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
inorganic fertilization, combined organic and inorganic
fertilization, and a control with no fertilization (if
applicable). Each treatment was replicated three times
to account for variation and ensure robust statistical
analysis.
Fertilization Methods:
a. Organic Fertilization: Organic fertilizers such as
compost and well-rotted manure were applied at
recommended rates based on soil nutrient analysis and
the specific nutrient requirements of okra. The organic
fertilizers were evenly distributed across the
experimental plots before planting.
b.
Inorganic
Fertilization:
Inorganic
fertilizers
containing essential nutrients (e.g., nitrogen,
phosphorus, potassium, etc.) were applied at
recommended rates according to soil test results and
crop needs. The inorganic fertilizers were carefully
spread in the designated plots before planting.
c. Combined Organic and Inorganic Fertilization: For
this treatment, a combination of organic and inorganic
fertilizers was applied. The ratios and amounts of
organic and inorganic fertilizers were determined
based on agronomic recommendations and the
nutrient demands of okra.
Land Preparation and Planting:
The experimental plots were adequately cleared, and
land preparation was performed, including plowing
and harrowing, to create a favorable seedbed. Okra
seeds were then sown in rows, and appropriate
spacing was maintained between plants and rows.
Crop Management:
Throughout the growing season, regular agronomic
practices, including irrigation, weeding, and pest
control, were carried out uniformly across all
experimental plots to minimize confounding factors.
Data Collection:
Data on various growth parameters, such as plant
height, leaf area, flowering onset, and fruiting
characteristics, were collected at specific intervals
during the crop's growth stages. Yield-related data,
including the number of fruits, fruit weight, and yield
per hectare, were recorded at harvest.
Quality Analysis:
At harvest, a sub-sample of okra pods from each
treatment was collected and analyzed for nutrient
content and quality attributes such as moisture
content, vitamin C content, and total soluble solids.
Statistical Analysis:
The collected data were subjected to appropriate
statistical analysis using relevant software. Analysis of
variance (ANOVA) and mean separation tests were
conducted to determine significant differences among
treatments.
Interpretation and Conclusion:
The results obtained from the data analysis were
interpreted, and conclusions were drawn regarding
the comparative effects of organic and inorganic
fertilization on different okra varieties in the Sudan
Savanna Ecological Zone of Kebbi State. The findings
were discussed in light of their implications for
sustainable agriculture and food security in the region.
RESULTS
The study investigated the effects of organic and
inorganic fertilization on three okra varieties in the
Sudan Savanna Ecological Zone of Kebbi State. Data on
Volume 03 Issue 08-2023
8
American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations
(ISSN
–
2771-2559)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
08
Pages:
5-9
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
7.
471
)
OCLC
–
1290679216
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
growth parameters, yield, and quality attributes were
collected and subjected to statistical analysis. The
following are the key findings of the study:
Growth Parameters:
Okra plants subjected to combined organic and
inorganic fertilization showed the highest growth
performance, including increased plant height and leaf
area, compared to other treatments. The sole organic
and inorganic fertilization treatments also exhibited
improved growth compared to the control group with
no fertilization.
Flowering and Fruiting:
The combined fertilization treatment resulted in earlier
flowering and increased fruit set compared to the
other treatments. Both organic and inorganic
fertilization treatments showed significant positive
effects on flowering and fruiting compared to the
control.
Yield:
The combined fertilization treatment significantly
outperformed other treatments in terms of okra yield.
It resulted in a higher number of fruits per plant and
heavier individual fruit weight, leading to a substantial
increase in overall yield per hectare. The sole organic
fertilization treatment also showed improved yield
compared to the sole inorganic fertilization and control
groups.
Quality Attributes:
Okra pods from the combined fertilization treatment
exhibited superior quality attributes, including higher
nutrient content and increased vitamin C levels
compared to other treatments. The quality attributes
of okra pods from the sole organic fertilization
treatment were generally better than those from the
sole inorganic fertilization and control treatments.
DISCUSSION
The results of this comparative study on the effects of
organic and inorganic fertilization on okra varieties in
the Sudan Savanna Ecological Zone of Kebbi State
indicate that a combination of organic and inorganic
fertilization is the most effective approach for
optimizing okra growth, yield, and quality. The
improved performance of okra under the combined
fertilization treatment can be attributed to the
synergistic effects of organic matter, which enhances
soil structure and nutrient retention, and the targeted
supply of essential nutrients from inorganic fertilizers.
The positive impact of organic fertilization alone on
growth, flowering, fruiting, and yield highlights the
importance of incorporating organic practices in
agricultural systems. Organic fertilizers contribute to
the long-term sustainability of the soil, improve its
fertility, and reduce the risk of environmental
degradation.
While inorganic fertilization resulted in noticeable
improvements in growth and yield compared to the
control group, it was less effective than combined
fertilization in promoting overall okra productivity and
quality. Excessive use of inorganic fertilizers may lead
to imbalanced nutrient uptake, soil acidification, and
nutrient runoff, which can have negative ecological
consequences.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, this study demonstrates that a
combination of organic and inorganic fertilization is the
most suitable approach for enhancing okra production
in the Sudan Savanna Ecological Zone of Kebbi State.
The combined fertilization treatment resulted in
Volume 03 Issue 08-2023
9
American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations
(ISSN
–
2771-2559)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
08
Pages:
5-9
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
7.
471
)
OCLC
–
1290679216
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
superior growth, early flowering, increased fruiting,
and significantly higher yield compared to sole organic
and inorganic fertilization methods. Furthermore, the
okra pods produced under combined fertilization
exhibited improved nutrient content and vitamin C
levels, indicating enhanced nutritional quality.
The findings of this study hold great significance for
local farmers and policymakers in Kebbi State,
providing valuable insights into sustainable agricultural
practices for okra cultivation. The adoption of
combined organic and inorganic fertilization can lead
to increased productivity, improved soil health, and
reduced environmental impact. As sustainable
agriculture is crucial for long-term food security and
environmental preservation, the results of this study
may serve as a foundation for optimizing okra
production systems in similar agroecological zones
worldwide.
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