Evaluation of rice husk and poultry manure compost as organic fertilizer for maize production in Abraka Delta State Nigeria

Abstract

Effects of compost on maize and soil chemical properties were evaluated in 2015 at Abraka, Delta State. It was applied at 10.0 t ha^-1 laid out in randomized complete block design with three replicates. Plant height, leaf area, plant girth, dry matter and maize yield were measured. Soil samples were taken for pre-planting and for post-harvest analysis. Data were subjected to analysis of variance, Duncan Multiple Range Test was used to compared means at0.05% level of significance. Results revealed that maize yields were significantly improved compared to control. Rice husk 50% + poultry manure 50% recorded the highest at both seasons followed by Rice husk 60% + poultry manure 40%. It had the highest soil pH, total N, available P and ECECwhile Rice husk 60% + poultry manure 40% had the highest organic carbon. The Rice husk 50% + poultry manure 50% is recommended for farmers in Abraka.

Keywords: maize yield, rice husk, poultry manure, soil fertility, soil chemical properties