Journal of Applied Biosciences (J. Appl. Biosci.) [ISSN 1997 - 5902]
Volume 22: 1289 - 1293. Published October 7, 2009.
Effect of different methods of Chromolaena odorata compost preparation on the growth and yield of cucumber (Cucumis sativa) in southwestern Nigeria
Olaniyi, J.O.,* Akanbi, W.B., Olabiyi, T.I. and Akpede O.E.
*Department of Agronomy, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria.
* Correspondence author e- mail: Olaniyikunle2005@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
Objectives:To determine the best method of compost preparation for optimal growth and fruit yield of cucumber (Cucumis sativa).
Methodology and results: Composts were prepared using Chromolaena odorata and other organic materials under three methods of composting, i.e. polyethylene sheet, plastic drum and pit methods. After composting, 2.5 kg. ha-1 of compost made through each of the composting methods and their combinations were applied to cucumber plants. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design with 3 replications. Chemical compositions of the composts and growth and yield attributes of cucumber were assessed. The results showed that the various composting methods had significant effects on the chemical compositions of the Chromolaena composts. The application of compost prepared using drum significantly increased the vine length, number of leaves, fruit weight, total number of fruits and fruit yield of cucumber above the control plants in which no compost was applied.
Conclusion and application of findings: The nutrient content of the composts is greatly influenced by the composting method. The nutrient compositions of the compost, and the growth and yield of cucumber were significantly improved by the composting using the drum, and therefore this method is adjudged to be the best.
Key words: Chromolaena odorata, composting methods, nutrient content, cucumber, yield.
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