This study was designed to investigate the effect of Palm Bunch and wood ash on the growth and yield performance of fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis). The Study was carried out at Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Student Research Farm. The Nekede soil is sandy loam textured, with pH value as low as 4.8 and very deficient in OM and N. Amelioration treatments were carried out by adding organic supplements (palm bunch ash and wood ash) to the soil. The study used a randomized complete block design with 10 t/ha palm bunch ash (PBA), 10 t/ha wood shave ash (WA), 5 t/ha PBA + 5 t/ha WA and a control (no additives added), making a total of four treatments. The treatments were replicated three times. The experimental works were undertaken in field plots. The growth parameters examined were: Plant height, leaf number and vine length and shoot/root ratio, fresh weight. Data collected were subjected to statistical analysis using least significant difference (LSD). Results of the studies showed that sole application of 10 t/ha PBA and 10 t/ha WA and halved their rates in combination, increased soil pH, N, OC, P, K, Ca and Mg in relation to the control treatment. Combination of palm bunch ash (PBA) and wood ash (WA) significantly enhanced yield in fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis). The study reveals that soil acidity could be neutralized; soil fertility improved and crop yield enhanced with a combination of organic amendments on the ultisols of south-eastern Nigeria.
Citation: Abana P.C. (2022) The Effect of Palm Bunch Ash and Wood Ash on the Growth and Yield of Fluted Pumpkin (Telfaria Occidentalis), Global Journal of Agricultural Research, Vol.10, No.4, pp.16-22
Keywords: Palm Bunch Ash, Telfairia occidentalis, nutrient use efficiency, wood shave ash
