By Lawal A. A. 1, O.A.Dada1, A. G. Adebayo and A.O.Togun
Abstract
Low fruit quality and yield in cucumber is linked directly to continuous cropping under poor soil fertility management practices in Nigeria. In 2014 and 2015 planting seasons, field trials were conducted at the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Ibadan to determine effects of poultry manure and NPK 15:15:15 fertilizer on growth, nutrient uptake and yield of cucumber on Ferruginous soil. Ten treatment combinations comprising two cucumber varieties and five levels of soil amendments were laid out in randomized complete block design with three replicates. The field was re-established for residual trial. Vegetative parameters were higher in Marketer but not significantly different from Poinsett in plots supplied 5 t/ha poultry manure +60 kg/ha NPK 15:15:15 . Poinsett produced higher fruit yield (163.60 g/plant) and dry matter (71.90 g/plant) than Maketer. Nutrient uptake was highest in Marketer plots that received 5 t/ha poultry manure + 60 kg/ha NPK. Residual study showed that the two cucumber varieties performed better in plots previously supplied 10 t/ha poultry manure or combinations of NPK + poultry manure than NPK fertilized or control (unfertilized) plots. Application of poultry manure in combination with mineral fertilizer enhanced soil nutrient status of Ferruginous soil both in short and long term.