Effect plant density and poultry manure on rapid multiplication of a cassava propagule

Abstract

This study appraised the effect of plant density and poultry manure rates on rapid multiplication of a cassava propagule during the late cropping season of 2007. Nine (9) treatments consisting of three cassava densities (1.0 x 1.0, 1.0 x 0.5, 1.0m x 0.25m) amended with three rates of poultry manure (0, 2 and 4 tons/ha) were laid out in 3 x 3 factorial arrangement in a randomized complete design with three replications. The research work was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm, Federal University of Technology, Owerri in the humid rainforest of Southeastern Nigeria. Growth and yield data were collected and statistically analyzed. The soil fertility at planting was low. Poultry manure rates significantly improved the growth and yield of cassava. Cassavas spaced 1.0m x 0.25m and amended with 4 tons/ha of poultry manure were significantly tall with moderate girth and highest stem bundles and root tuber yield. Regenerative stem cuttings had good field establishment vigour. Post-harvest soil chemical analysis showed improvement in nutrient status of the soil. Cassava spaced 1.0m x 0.25m and amended with 4 tons/ha of poultry manure had highest benefit cost ratio.