AKPAROBI S.O.
Abstract
The effect of different level of farmyard manures (0t/ha, 15t/ha, 25t/ha and 35t/ha) on the growth and yield of Amaranthus cruentus
was studied. Data collected on weekly basis were plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, fresh and dry weights.
Results showed that all parameters measured increased with plant age and significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed
among the farmyard manure levels. Addition of more manure to the seedlings had positive effect on all the parameters measured.
The seedlings treated with manure level of 35 t/ha had the highest mean values of 123.27 cm, 11 585 cm2, 141.56, 1.75 kg and 0.99 kg
per plant for plant height, leaf area, number of leaves, fresh and dry weights respectively while those treated with manure
at 0 t/ha had the least values for the parameters measured. This study showed that in rainforest agro-ecological zones
with heavy rainfall that encourages the decomposition of poultry manures. The application of manure level of 35 t/ha to
amaranthus seem to had the highest mean values for all the parameters measured such as plant height, leaf area, number of leaves,
leaf area, fresh and dry weights. Thus, it should be recommended for farmers growing amaranthus in rainforest agro-ecological zone.
Key words:
Amaranthus cruentus, farmyard manure, yield, agro-ecological zone