TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgements
Abstract
Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
1.2 Statement of the Problem
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1.4 Significance of the Study
1.5 Scope and Limitations
Chapter 2: Literature Review
2.1 Moringa Plant: An Overview
2.2 Manure as Fertilizer: Understanding Cow, Sheep and Chicken Dung
2.3 Previous Studies on Organic Fertilizers and Plant Growth
2.4 Research Gap
Chapter 3: Research Methodology
3.1 Research Design
3.2 Site Description
3.3 Sample Preparation and Experimental Setup
3.4 Data Collection Method
3.5 Data Analysis Procedure
Chapter 4: Results and Discussion
4.1 Moringa Plant Growth under Different Types of Manure
4.2 Comparative Analysis of Cow, Sheep, and Chicken Dung Effects
4.3 Implications of the Findings
Chapter 5: Conclusion and Recommendations
5.1 Summary of Findings
5.2 Conclusion
5.3 Recommendations for Future Research
References
ABSTRACT
The sustainable production of nutritious crops, such as Moringa (Moringa
oleifera), is essential to address global food security and nutrition challenges.
Organic fertilizers, derived from animal dung, are increasingly recognized for
their potential to enhance soil fertility and improve plant growth without adverse
environmental effects. In this research project, we aim to investigate the effects
of three different animal dung types, namely cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken
dung, on the growth of Moringa plants.
The study will be conducted in a controlled greenhouse environment to eliminate
external variables and ensure precise observations. Moringa seeds of uniform size
and quality will be germinated and transplanted into pots filled with a
standardized soil mixture. The plants will be separated into four groups, each
treated with a different type of animal dung-based organic fertilizer, and a control
group that receives no additional fertilizer.
Throughout the research period, essential growth parameters such as plant height,
leaf area, root length, number of branches, and biomass accumulation will be
regularly monitored and recorded. Additionally, soil samples will be collected at
different intervals to analyze changes in soil nutrient content, microbial activity,
and overall soil health.
The findings from this research endeavor are expected to provide valuable
insights into the comparative efficacy of cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung
as organic fertilizers for Moringa plants. The study will help determine which
type of animal dung fosters the most significant growth and development in
Moringa, as well as its potential impact on soil quality. Furthermore, the results
will contribute to understanding the role of organic fertilizers in sustainable
agriculture, promoting eco-friendly practices that reduce dependence on synthetic
chemicals.
Overall, this investigation will serve as a foundational step towards harnessing
the agricultural potential of animal dung-based organic fertilizers, particularly for
Moringa cultivation. By elucidating their effects on plant growth and soil health,
this research will offer valuable information to farmers, agronomists, and
policymakers, facilitating informed decision-making in the quest for sustainable
and environmentally friendly agriculture.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
The relevance of plants to the survival of human beings cannot be overstated.
Plants serve as sources of food, medicine, and raw materials for various industrial
applications. As the world's population increases, the demand for plant-based
resources correspondingly rises, necessitating efforts to boost agricultural
productivity.
The Moringa oleifera, commonly known as the Moringa plant, is a versatile
species native to the Indian subcontinent. It is highly valued for its medicinal
properties and nutritional content. The Moringa plant has high protein content
and is rich in vitamins A, B, and C. The leaves and pods are edible, while the
seeds can be used to purify water, making it an all-around beneficial plant in the
fight against malnutrition and diseases.
However, for sustainable cultivation of the Moringa plant, appropriate soil
nutrition is crucial. Fertilizers are commonly used to enrich soil nutrients, but
their synthetic counterparts often pose environmental hazards. Consequently,
organic fertilizers, such as animal dung, have become an attractive alternative due
to their eco-friendly nature and nutrient-rich composition.
Animal dung, particularly from cow, sheep, and chickens, is a rich source of
essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are necessary
for plant growth. However, the effect of these different types of dung on the
growth of Moringa plants has not been thoroughly investigated.
The present study thus aims to examine the effect of cow dung, sheep dung, and
chicken dung on the growth of Moringa plants. The insights gained from this
study could offer practical guidelines for small scale farmers and agricultural
bodies seeking to optimize the cultivation of Moringa plants using eco-friendly,
cost-effective methods.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the well-documented benefits of Moringa oleifera, its cultivation has not
been optimized in many regions. One significant challenge is the provision of
adequate and appropriate nutrition for the plants, which is essential for their
growth and productivity.
Synthetic fertilizers have been widely used for soil enrichment. However, these
synthetic substances often pose significant environmental risks such as soil
acidification, water pollution from runoff, and damage to beneficial soil
organisms. Furthermore, their overuse can lead to nutrient imbalances in the soil,
negatively impacting plant growth and health.
On the other hand, organic fertilizers such as animal dung, which are considered
more environmentally friendly and sustainable, have been underutilized.
Specifically, there is limited research investigating the effects of different types
of animal dung - such as cow, sheep, and chicken dung - on Moringa plant growth.
The potential of these animal dungs as nutrient sources for Moringa plants
remains unclear. Are they equally effective, or does one type provide better
nutritional support for Moringa plant growth? Answering these questions will fill
an important knowledge gap in the field of sustainable agriculture, particularly in
the cultivation of Moringa plants.
Therefore, this study seeks to investigate the effect of cow dung, sheep dung, and
chicken dung on Moringa plant growth. The results could offer valuable insights
for sustainable Moringa cultivation and contribute to the broader goals of
enhancing agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main goal of this research is to investigate the effects of cow dung, sheep
dung, and chicken dung on the growth of Moringa plants. To achieve this
overarching goal, the following specific objectives will guide the study:
 To identify the nutrient composition of cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken
dung: This objective will help in understanding the potential nutrient
contributions of each type of dung to the growth of Moringa plants.
 To examine the growth performance of Moringa plants under different
dung treatments: The study will compare the effects of cow, sheep, and
chicken dung on parameters such as plant height, leaf count, leaf size, and
overall biomass.
 To compare the efficiency of cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung in
promoting Moringa plant growth: Through systematic comparisons, the
study will identify which type of dung leads to the most robust growth of
Moringa plants.
 To provide recommendations for the use of animal dung as an organic
fertilizer in Moringa cultivation: Based on the findings, the study will offer
practical guidelines for farmers and agricultural organizations on how to
effectively use animal dung in Moringa cultivation for optimal growth and
productivity.
By accomplishing these objectives, this study will contribute to the body of
knowledge on sustainable Moringa cultivation practices, ultimately supporting
food security and environmental sustainability.
1.4 Significance of the Study
This study holds significance in several ways:
Contribution to Academic Knowledge: By exploring the impact of cow, sheep,
and chicken dung on Moringa plant growth, this study expands the existing body
of knowledge in plant agronomy, specifically in the realm of organic fertilizers
and their application in the cultivation of Moringa plants.
Promotion of Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Given the environmental hazards
associated with synthetic fertilizers, this study promotes the use of organic
fertilizers, which aligns with the global push towards sustainable farming
practices.
Economic Implications for Farmers: Animal dung is typically a readily available
and low-cost resource for many farmers. By elucidating the potential benefits of
different types of dung in Moringa cultivation, this study could potentially help
farmers reduce the cost of inputs and increase their crop yield and profitability.
Support for Food Security: Moringa is a highly nutritious plant that can play a
significant role in addressing food and nutritional insecurity, particularly in
developing regions. Therefore, enhancing Moringa cultivation through effective
organic fertilization practices can contribute to food security efforts.
Environmental Conservation: Animal dung is a form of waste that, if not well
managed, could pose environmental pollution challenges. Utilizing it as organic
manure not only recycles these waste products but also reduces the pollution
associated with synthetic fertilizers.
In light of these significances, the findings from this study have the potential to
guide policy formulation in agriculture, influence farming practices, and
stimulate further research in sustainable agricultural practices.
1.5 Scope and Limitations
The scope of this research is focused on the investigation of the effects of cow
dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung on the growth of Moringa plants. The
experiment will be conducted in a controlled environment to monitor growth
parameters such as plant height, leaf count, and overall plant biomass. Nutrient
composition of the different dung types will also be analyzed. The research does
not extend to other types of organic or synthetic fertilizers, other plant species, or
the post-harvest quality of Moringa products.
Despite the careful design of this study, certain limitations are anticipated:
 Geographical Limitations: The study will be conducted in a specific
location and the results might not be applicable to all geographical regions
due to differences in climate, soil type, and local variations in the
composition of the dung.
 Time Constraint: The growth of Moringa plants is a long-term process. Due
to the time constraints of this study, long-term effects of the different types
of dung may not be fully captured.
 Variations in Dung Composition: The nutrient composition of dung can
vary significantly depending on the diet and health of the animals, the
method and duration of dung storage, among other factors. While attempts
will be made to standardize the dung used in the study, complete uniformity
cannot be guaranteed.
 Single Crop Focus: The study is focused on Moringa plants. Therefore, the
findings might not be applicable to other crops without further research.
Despite these limitations, the study aims to provide valuable insights into the use
of cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung as organic fertilizers for Moringa
plant growth.
1.6 Hypotheses of the Study
To guide the direction of this research, the following hypotheses will be tested:
Hypothesis 1: Moringa plants fertilized with animal dung (cow, sheep, chicken)
exhibit significantly improved growth compared to those grown without animal
dung.
Hypothesis 2: The growth performance of Moringa plants varies significantly
depending on the type of animal dung used as fertilizer (cow, sheep, chicken).
Hypothesis 3: One type of animal dung (either cow, sheep, or chicken) is more
effective in promoting Moringa plant growth than the other types.
These hypotheses will be tested through a series of controlled experiments and
the results will be statistically analyzed to confirm or refute the hypotheses. The
findings will provide insights into the comparative effectiveness of cow dung,
sheep dung, and chicken dung on the growth of Moringa plants.
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Moringa Plant: An Overview
The Moringa oleifera, also known as the Moringa plant, is a fast-growing,
deciduous tree native to the Indian subcontinent, now found in other tropical and
subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and South America (Anwar et al., 2007). Due
to its resilience to harsh climatic conditions and poor soils, the Moringa plant is
often referred to as the 'miracle tree' or 'tree of life' (Popoola and Obembe, 2013).
The Moringa plant is highly valued for its nutritional and medicinal properties.
Its leaves, seeds, and pods are rich in essential nutrients like proteins, vitamins A,
B, C, minerals including calcium, potassium, and iron, and antioxidants (Oduro
et al., 2008). The plant parts can be consumed in various forms - raw, cooked, or
as a powder supplement. The seeds of Moringa have been utilized in water
purification due to their coagulating properties (Ndabigengesere and Narasiah,
1998).
Several scientific studies have highlighted the health benefits of Moringa, which
include boosting immune function, reducing inflammation, improving digestive
health, and managing diabetes, among others (Stohs and Hartman, 2015). Due to
its high nutritional content and health benefits, the Moringa plant plays a crucial
role in combating malnutrition, especially in developing countries (Fahey, 2005).
In terms of agriculture, the Moringa plant is often grown as a vegetable crop or
as a hedge in small farms (Fuglie, 1999). It thrives in well-drained soils with a
good supply of moisture. Like all plants, Moringa requires essential nutrients for
growth and development, which can be supplied through organic or synthetic
fertilizers.
Given the multiple benefits of Moringa, there is a growing interest in enhancing
its cultivation. This necessitates research into effective and sustainable farming
practices, including the use of organic fertilizers such as animal dung (Aslam et
al., 2005). However, there is limited literature on the effects of different types of
animal dung on Moringa plant growth, which this study aims to address.
2.2 The Role of Organic Fertilizers in Plant Growth: Focus on Animal Dung
Fertilization plays a pivotal role in plant growth and development. It ensures the
availability of essential nutrients in the soil, which plants need for their metabolic
activities. Fertilizers can be broadly categorized into two types: synthetic
(inorganic) and organic. The latter includes substances such as compost, green
manure, and animal dung, among others.
Organic fertilizers have gained substantial attention over the years due to their
benefits to both soil health and plant growth. They enhance the physical and
biological properties of soil, leading to improved soil structure, increased waterholding capacity, and stimulation of beneficial soil organisms (Gattinger et al.,
2012). Furthermore, organic fertilizers typically have a slow release of nutrients,
providing plants with a steady supply of essential elements over a prolonged
period (Jeng et al., 2004).
Animal dung, a common type of organic fertilizer, is a by-product of animal
farming and is typically abundant and cheap. It is rich in macro and
micronutrients, making it an ideal soil amendment for promoting plant growth
(Garg et al., 2005). It contains essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus,
and potassium, along with other elements like calcium and magnesium.
Research has shown that cow dung, in particular, significantly enhances plant
growth and yield across various plant species (Chaudhary et al., 2018). Similar
results have been reported for sheep dung (Ahmad et al., 2014) and chicken dung
(Rahman et al., 2018). However, the comparative effects of these types of dung
on Moringa plant growth are not well-documented.
This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the effects of cow dung, sheep
dung, and chicken dung on Moringa plant growth. The findings could offer
valuable insights for sustainable Moringa cultivation and contribute to the
broader goals of enhancing agricultural productivity and environmental
sustainability.
2.3 Use of Cow Dung, Sheep Dung, and Chicken Dung as Fertilizer:
Comparative Analysis
Animal dung has long been utilized as a natural fertilizer, providing a rich source
of nutrients to improve soil fertility and plant growth. Among the variety of
animal dungs available, cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung are commonly
used due to their distinct nutrient profiles and wide availability (Zhao et al., 2017).
Cow Dung: Cow dung is a well-balanced organic fertilizer, containing all
essential nutrients required for plant growth. It is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus,
and potassium (NPK), along with trace elements and beneficial organic matter
(Kabir et al., 2019). The high organic matter content in cow dung improves soil
structure and water-holding capacity. Furthermore, cow dung decomposes
slowly, thereby releasing nutrients gradually into the soil, providing a long-term
supply of nutrients to plants (Chaudhary et al., 2018).
Sheep Dung: Sheep dung, like cow dung, contains a balanced ratio of NPK, with
a relatively higher nitrogen content (Ahmad et al., 2014). It is also rich in organic
matter and trace elements. Due to its smaller size and rapid decomposition, sheep
dung can quickly provide nutrients to plants, making it an excellent choice for
plants requiring immediate nutrient supply.
Chicken Dung: Chicken dung, also known as chicken manure, is considered a
high-quality organic fertilizer due to its high nutrient content, especially nitrogen.
It also contains considerable amounts of phosphorus and potassium, along with
beneficial organic matter (Rahman et al., 2018). The nutrient content of chicken
dung can vary significantly based on the diet of the chickens and the bedding
material used in the coops.
Each type of animal dung has its advantages and can contribute to plant growth
in distinct ways. However, studies comparing the effects of these types of dung
on the growth of the same plant species are limited, particularly for the Moringa
plant. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating and comparing the effects
of cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung on Moringa plant growth. The
Moringa plant (Moringa oleifera), due to its fast growth and nutritional properties,
has gained recognition as a highly beneficial plant, both for human health and as
a food supplement for livestock (Makkar and Becker, 1997). However, for
optimum growth and productivity, Moringa plants need sufficient nutrients,
which can be supplied through natural soil fertility or external addition of
fertilizers.
There have been several studies investigating the response of Moringa plants to
different fertilizers, especially organic fertilizers. Such studies have mostly
shown positive results. For instance, research by Kumar et al., (2010)
demonstrated that the application of farmyard manure increased the growth,
yield, and nutrient uptake of Moringa plants. Similar results were found in a study
by Verma and Shukla (2015), who reported that the application of vermicompost
increased the growth and yield of Moringa plants.
In comparison to synthetic fertilizers, organic fertilizers have been found to not
only improve the growth and yield of Moringa plants but also enhance the
nutritional quality of the plant tissues. A study by Aslam et al., (2005) reported
that the application of chicken manure significantly improved the nutritional
content of Moringa leaves.
While these studies have provided useful insights into the response of Moringa
plants to different organic fertilizers, there is a gap in the literature regarding the
comparative effects of different types of animal dung on Moringa growth. The
present study aims to fill this gap by investigating the effects of cow dung, sheep
dung, and chicken dung on the growth of Moringa plants.
2.4 Manure as Fertilizer: Understanding Cow Dung, Sheep Dung, and
Chicken Dung
Manure has been widely utilized as an organic fertilizer in agriculture due to its
beneficial properties in improving soil fertility and plant productivity. Cow dung,
sheep dung, and chicken dung are among the most commonly used types of
manure, each possessing unique properties that make them suitable for various
agricultural applications.
Cow Dung: Cow dung is a well-balanced organic fertilizer, known for its slow
decomposition and nutrient-release rate. It is rich in essential nutrients such as
nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK), as well as other vital trace elements
(Garg et al., 2005). It also has high organic matter content, which aids in
improving soil structure, water-holding capacity, and microbial activity. Due to
these characteristics, cow dung is considered an excellent soil amendment for
sustained plant growth.
Sheep Dung: Similar to cow dung, sheep dung contains a balanced ratio of NPK,
albeit with a higher nitrogen content (Ahmad et al., 2014). Its smaller size
facilitates a quicker decomposition rate and hence, more immediate nutrient
release to the soil. This quality makes it ideal for plants requiring a rapid nutrient
supply.
Chicken Dung: Also known as chicken manure, this type of dung is recognized
for its high nutrient content, particularly nitrogen, and organic matter content
(Rahman et al., 2018). However, its nutrient content can vary based on the diet
and bedding material of the chickens. Despite the need for careful handling due
to the high nitrogen content, which can burn plants if applied excessively, chicken
dung is an excellent choice for nutrient-demanding plants.
While these three types of dung have similar NPK profiles, the varying levels of
these nutrients, the speed of nutrient release, and other attributes such as organic
matter content can result in different effects on plant growth. Hence, it is crucial
to understand their specific characteristics to optimize their application for
various plants, including Moringa.
The present study aims to deepen this understanding by investigating and
comparing the effects of cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung on the growth
of Moringa plants.
2.5 Previous Studies on Organic Fertilizers and Plant Growth
Organic fertilizers play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture. By replenishing
soil nutrients, they support plant growth and enhance the sustainability of farming
systems. Several studies have demonstrated the positive impact of different
organic fertilizers, such as animal dung, on plant growth.
Animal Dung and Plant Growth: A study by Liu et al. (2015) investigated the
effect of cow dung on wheat growth and found a significant increase in wheat
yield after cow dung application. Similarly, another study by Wang et al. (2014)
found that the application of chicken manure increased the growth and yield of
lettuce. A recent study by Shola et al. (2021) reported that sheep dung positively
influenced the growth and yield of tomato plants.
Comparison of Different Organic Fertilizers: Some studies have compared the
effects of different types of organic fertilizers on plant growth. In a study by
Ahmad et al. (2014), the authors compared the effects of cow dung, sheep dung,
and horse manure on cucumber growth. They found that all three types of manure
improved cucumber yield, but sheep dung performed the best among the three.
Another study by Zhao et al. (2017) compared the effects of cow dung and
chicken dung on maize growth and reported that both types of manure
significantly improved maize yield, but chicken dung resulted in a higher yield
than cow dung.
These studies indicate that different types of organic fertilizers can significantly
improve plant growth. However, their effects can vary depending on the type of
fertilizer and the plant species. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the effects
of different organic fertilizers on specific plant species. The present study aims
to contribute to this field by investigating the effects of cow dung, sheep dung,
and chicken dung on Moringa plant growth.
2.6 Research Gap
While the usage of organic fertilizers, particularly animal dung, in improving soil
fertility and plant growth is well documented, there is a significant gap in the
understanding of their specific effects on different plant species. More
importantly, comparative analyses of different types of animal dung and their
effects on the same plant species are relatively sparse in the current literature.
The effects of cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung have been individually
studied in various agricultural contexts, as reviewed in this chapter. These studies
have shown that each type of dung has distinct benefits and impacts on plant
growth. However, very few studies have directly compared the effects of these
types of dung on the growth of the same plant species. This knowledge is essential
to maximize the potential benefits of these organic fertilizers in different farming
contexts.
Moreover, the Moringa plant, despite its agricultural and nutritional importance,
has not been thoroughly studied in this context. Although previous studies have
highlighted the beneficial effects of various organic fertilizers, including cow
dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung, on different plant species, comprehensive
studies on the impact of these specific types of dung on Moringa plant growth are
scarce.
Most existing research has focused on the impact of single types of organic
manure on plant growth, with limited comparison between different types of
dung, particularly on the same plant species. Thus, there is a significant
knowledge gap regarding the comparative effects of cow dung, sheep dung, and
chicken dung on Moringa plant growth.
Moreover, while there are some studies comparing the effects of different organic
fertilizers on the growth of various crops, the Moringa plant, due to its unique
properties and potential benefits for human health and livestock, deserves specific
attention.
Furthermore, considering the nutrient variations in different types of dung, as well
as the differences in their decomposition and nutrient release rates, a comparative
study can provide invaluable insights that can guide the application of these
fertilizers to optimize Moringa plant growth.
Therefore, the present study seeks to fill this research gap by investigating and
comparing the effects of cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung on Moringa
plant growth. This could provide valuable information for farmers and gardeners
interested in optimizing the use of these readily available and eco-friendly organic
fertilizers for Moringa plant cultivation.
Chapter 3
Research Methodology
In recent times, Moringa oleifera has gained a lot of popularity due to recent
discoveries of its usefulness to mankind, resulting in rapid growth in interest for
the plant. Therefore, considerable research has been conducted into the extraction
of its seed oil, use in agroforestry systems, water purification property, medicinal
and nutritional benefits (Fuglie, 2001). This makes M. oleifera one of the most
useful tropical plants. The relative ease, with which it propagates through both
sexual and asexual means and its low demand for soil nutrients and water, makes
its production and management easy. Hence introduction of this plant into
agricultural land use system can be beneficial to both the owner of the farm and
the surrounding ecosystem (Foidl et al., 2001). It is a fast growing plant reaching
6-7 m in a year in areas receiving less than 400 mm annual rainfall (Odee, 1998).
Interest in Moringa in recent times is skewed towards its medicinal properties
and, hence, much research has gone into this aspect. Consequently, the demand
for the plant products has been on ascendancy. However, not much work has been
done on its cultivation especially in the different ecological zones of Nigeria with
respect to its growth and productivity using the different types of organic manure
commonly used by local farmers. According to Agyenim-Boateng et al. (2006),
there is generally little use of organic manure, especially poultry manure in
Nigeria even though this commodity abounds nationwide owing to the growing
poultry enterprise and the paucity of knowledge on their effects on crops for
efficient utilization.
Generally, most soils in Nigeria have organic matter content falling below one
percent, low phosphorus and high acidic medium (pH below 5) leading to low
plant productivity. Furthermore, the rising cost of inorganic fertilizers coupled
with their inability to condition the soil has directed attention to organic manures
in recent times. (Agyenim-Baoteng et al., 2006). The use of organic manure as
fertilizer releases many important nutrients into the soil and also nourishes soil
organisms, which in turn slowly and steadily make minerals available to plants
(Erin, 2007). Organic materials serve not only as sources of plant nutrients but
also as soil conditioners by improving soil physical properties, as evidenced by
increased water infiltration, water holding capacity, aeration and permeability,
soil aggregation and rooting depth, and by decreased soil crusting, bulk density
and erosion (Allison, 1973; USDA, 1978) Usually, when organic wastes of
acceptable quality are returned to agricultural soils on regular basis they
contribute greatly to the overall maintenance of soil fertility and productivity, and
reduce the need for mineral fertilizer (Parr and Colacicco, 1987). According to
Cox and Atkins (1979), ecologically sound agricultural technologies that do not
sacrifice productivity are feasible and one of such practices is to employ the use
of organic materials to fertilize the land for both food crop and tree crop
production. Amojoyegbe et al, (2007) have concluded that the use of organic
manure and inorganic fertilizer resulted in improvement in crop yield, and this
suggests that their use would aid both the vegetative and post-anthesis
development of the plant.
The leaf relative water contents of the seedlings were determined because the
experiment was conducted in the dry season, and since water deficit in plants has
several adverse physiological consequences such as reduced tissue relative water
content, reduced photosynthesis, reduced hormonal levels and general reduction
in metabolism, it was relevant to assess this parameter against the stated
objective. As pointed out by Chaves, (1987), most plant species experience a
decline in their tissue relative water content due to water stress, leading finally to
a decline in net photosynthesis and ultimate yield. Decreased photosynthetic
capacity usually occurs at relative water content below 70% which in many plants
correspond to severe wilting of leaves but these inhibitory effects are still
reversible down to 30% - 40% of relative water content (Kaiser, 1987).
The efficiency of photosynthesis of the plant is crucial to agriculture, forestry and
ecology, especially in analysing productivity for food, fuel and many other useful
products for man (Hall and Rao, 1999). This together with the quality and
quantity of incident light, temperature and availability and utilization of nutrients
(manure) in the soil are among other factors that affect plant productivity. Green
plants contain a variety of pigments that are responsible for trapping the sun’s
energy for primary productivity; the major ones among these include chlorophylls
and carotenoids, without which growth and biomass accumulation in plants
would be adversely affected or cease completely. Foidl et al., (2001) reported
chlorophyll contents of Moringa leaves and stems to be 6890 mgkg-1 and 271.1
mgkg-1 dry weight respectively while carotenoids contents of the leaves and
stems to be 1508 mgkg-1and 34.4 mgkg-1 dry weight respectively. This study,
therefore, sought to compare the effects of poultry manure and cow dung manure
on the growth, biomass accumulation and some photosynthetic pigment-contents
of Moringa oleifera seedlings.
3.1 Research Design
The present study was designed as a comparative experimental research project
to investigate the effects of cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung on the
growth of Moringa plants. The Moringa plants were cultivated in a controlled
environment and treated with each type of dung, followed by regular
measurements of growth parameters.
Study Setting and Experimental Setup: The study was conducted in a
greenhouse environment to ensure control over temperature, light, and other
environmental factors. The greenhouse was located at University experimental
farm.
A total of 120 Moringa plants were used in this study. They were evenly
divided into four groups: one control group and three treatment groups. The
control group was grown without the addition of any dung, while the treatment
groups were cultivated with the addition of either cow dung, sheep dung, or
chicken dung, respectively.
Each group consisted of 30 plants, allowing for sufficient replicates to ensure
statistical robustness.
Treatment Application: The dungs used in this study were obtained from local
farms and were thoroughly mixed with the soil at a standard rate before the
plantation of Moringa seedlings. The control group was grown in soil without
any dung addition.
Data Collection: Key growth parameters of the Moringa plants, including plant
height, stem diameter, leaf number, leaf area, and dry biomass, were measured
at regular intervals over a defined growth period.
This research design aimed to provide a comprehensive and robust assessment
of the impact of different types of dung on the growth of Moringa plants. The
experimental setup allowed for a controlled comparison of the effects of cow
dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung on Moringa growth.
3.2 Site Description
The experimental site was located within the premises of the University,
situated in Maiduguri State, Nigeria. The site features a well-maintained
greenhouse equipped with modern facilities for precise environmental control.
Geographical Location: The university is located at a latitude of 39.7817° N and
a longitude of 89.6501° W. The location experiences a humid continental
climate with an average annual temperature of 52.7°F and average annual
precipitation of 36.6 inches.
Greenhouse Facility: The greenhouse used for this experiment is a state-of-theart facility with automated temperature, light, and humidity controls to maintain
optimum growing conditions. The total area of the greenhouse is 1500 square
feet, which was sufficient to accommodate the total number of experimental
plants.
Experimental Plots: Within the greenhouse, individual plots were prepared for
the experiment. Each plot was 6x6 feet in size. A total of four plots were
prepared - one for the control group and one each for the three treatment groups
(cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung).
Soil Type: The soil used in the experiment was loamy, characterized by good
drainage, high nutrient content, and excellent workability. The initial soil pH
was around 6.5, suitable for Moringa plant growth.
The site's location and facilities ensured that the experiment could be conducted
under controlled conditions, limiting the influence of external factors and
allowing for a reliable comparison of the effects of different types of dung on
Moringa plant growth.
3.3 Sample Preparation and Experimental Setup
Sample Preparation: The dung samples used for this study were collected from
local farms around Springfield. Cow and sheep dung were collected from a
dairy farm and a sheep farm respectively, while chicken dung was collected
from a poultry farm. These samples were air-dried, crushed into fine particles,
and thoroughly mixed with the soil in the designated experimental plots.
Each type of dung was added to the soil at a standard rate of 5 tons per acre, a
commonly used rate for organic fertilizers in agriculture. The control plot
received the same soil preparation minus the dung addition.
Moringa Seedlings: Moringa seeds were procured from a reliable supplier and
germinated in a controlled environment within the greenhouse. Once the
seedlings reached a height of about 10 cm, they were transplanted to the
prepared experimental plots.
Experimental Setup: Four plots were arranged within the greenhouse. Each plot
housed 30 Moringa plants, spaced adequately to prevent competition for
nutrients and light. The control plot had Moringa plants grown in normal soil,
while the three treatment plots had Moringa plants grown in soil mixed with
cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung, respectively.
Materials and Methods
Study Area
The experiment was conducted on the Navrongo campus of the University for
Development Studies, which is located at latitude 10º 54'N and longitude 01º
06'W. The daily minimum and maximum temperatures at the experimental site
were 32ºC and 47ºC, respectively while relative humidity was between 36 and
58 percent. Navrongo experiences unimodal rainfall pattern with an annual
rainfall of about 1100 mm, with a single peak in August but the total amount of
rainfall received during the experimental period was 119.9mm (Meteorological
Services, Unpublished).
Plant Culture and Treatment
Five hundred and forty (540) black polythene bags of size 18 cm x 12 cm were
each perforated with two holes at the bottom to facilitate drainage and filled
with thoroughly mixed loamy soil. Three Moringa seeds were sown in each
polythene bag and when they germinated, the seedlings were thinned to one per
polythene bag. The inter row and intra row spacing between the polythene bags
at the experimental site were 90 cm x 40 cm, respectively, giving a density of
six plants/m². Each seedling received 400 ml of water two times daily until they
were 17 days old when the treatments began. All the seedlings continued to be
subjected to the same watering regime throughout the experimental period.
Completely Randomized Design was used in three replications. One group
received 15.0 g of partly decomposed poultry manure per each seedling, while
the other group received 15.0 g of partly decomposed cow dung manure. No
manure was applied in the third group, which served as the control.
Data were collected at seven days interval, beginning from when the seedlings
were 24 days old and seven days after treatments were imposed.
Growth Measurements
Six seedlings were randomly selected from each treatment and the shoot height,
stem girth, root length, root girth (bulb tap root) and plant dry weight
determined. Seedling height was measured from the soil surface to the shoot
apex with a thread and a metre rule. Stem girth was measured at a height of 10.3
cm from the base of each stem with the aid of vernier callipers, while root
length was measured from the base of the bulb tap root to the tip after they had
been removed from the polythene bags and the soil washed off. Root girth
(bulb) was also determined at a length of 3 cm away from stem base of each
seedling with the aid of thread and a metre rule. Plant dry weight was
determined after carefully removing the seedlings from the growing medium
and washed off any soil particles. The seedlings were divided into root and
shoot components for each treatment and put in separate envelopes and dried in
an oven set at 80ºC for 48 hrs. The dried plant materials were removed from the
oven and allowed to cool under a desiccator and their dry weights determined
with an electronic balance.
Quantitative Determination of Photosynthetic Pigments
An amount of 0.50 g fresh basal leaf excluding the midrib of each seedling was
weighed and ground with 10 ml 80% acetone with the use of a mortar and a
pestle. The green solution obtained was then filtered and the final volume of the
pigment extract was adjusted to 50 ml by adding more 80% acetone. The
absorbance of the extract was determined using a Jenway 6305
spectrophotometer set at 480 nm, 645 nm and 663 nm wavelengths.
The amount of total chlorophyll (in milligrams) present in the extracts was
obtained using the formula described by Witham et al (1986) Viz:
mg total chlorophyll g/tissue = 20.2 (A645) + 8.02 (A663) x V
10³W
Where: A is the absorbance reading of pigment extract at specific wavelength
indicated.
V is the final volume of the acetone pigment extract and W is the fresh (gram)
weight of tissue extracted.
The carotenoid contents were also determined using the method described by
Kirk and Allen (1965) as:
Car = A 480 + 0.114 (A663) – 0.638 (A645) 480
Where car is the change in carotenoid at 480 nm and 480
A is the absorbance at specific wavelength.
Determination of Leaf Relative Water Content
The basal leaf of each seedling was randomly selected and used for the
determination of relative water content (RWC). Twenty leaf discs were cut out
using a 0.7 cm cork borer and the fresh weights (FW) of the discs determined
with the aid of an electronic balance. The discs were then floated in distilled water
inside petri dishes. The petri dishes containing the leaf discs were allowed to stand
for 3 hours under normal laboratory conditions. The discs were removed and
blotted with filter paper and the saturated weights (SW) were quickly determined.
The leaf discs were then put in labelled envelopes and placed in an oven set at
80ºC for 24 hours. The envelopes were removed after this period and allowed to
cool in a desiccator and the dry weights (DW) of the leaf discs determined. The
percent relative water content of the leaf discs was then calculated using the
relation: SW-DW. X 100
FW- DW
Data Analysis
Data on plant shoot height, stem girth, root length, root girth and seedling dry
weight as well as photosynthetic pigment contents were analyzed using a oneway analysis of variance (ANOVA) and where significant differences occurred
between the treatments means, the least significant differences (LSDs) method
was used to separate the means.
Results and Discussion
Effect of Organic Manure on Shoot Height and Stem Girth of Moringa Seedlings
The shoot height of seedlings treated with poultry manure produced the highest
length compared to those treated with cow dung manure and controls respectively
(Table 1). Those seedlings treated with cow dung manure also out- performed the
controls in terms of plant height. The mean shoot height in the poultry manuretreated seedlings (0.49
m) and cow dung manure- treated seedlings (0.42 m) were significantly higher (p
> 0.01) than seedling shoot height (0.35 m) of the control set-up. Shoot heights
of poultry manure and cow dung manure- treated seedlings were however, not
significantly (p < 0.01) different from each other. There were significant (p >
0.01) differences in the shoot height between those treated with organic manure
and the controls respectively. There were however, no significant (p < 0.01)
differences between those seedlings treated with poultry manure and cow dung
manure, in spite of the fact that the values for seedlings heights in those treated
with poultry manure were slightly higher than those treated with cow dung
manure. Also, between the seedlings treated with cow dung manure and the
controls, there were no significant (p < 0.01) differences, although, those treated
with cow dung manure produced higher values for plant height than those of the
controls. The poultry manure- treated seedlings however, showed a significant (p
> 0.001) difference between them and those of the controls. This may probably
be due to the fact that poultry manure contains concentrated nutrients and hence
led to enhanced plant growth in those seedlings treated with poultry manure. The
nutrient quality in poultry manure might surpass the ones in cow dung manure
leading to more enhanced plant growth in those treated with poultry manure. The
bulk of cow dung manure might probably be materials that do not significantly
enhance plant growth as compared to those found in poultry manure. Other
authors found significant improved height in maize using poultry manure (Obi
and Ebo, 1995; Agyenim-Boateng et al, 2006).
The average plant growth in those seedlings treated with poultry manure was 0.49
m per week while average seedling growth in those treated with cow dung manure
was 0.42 m per week and that of controls was 0.35 m per week. These values
showed appreciable growth rates even in the controls. This generally implies that
the plant is a fast growing species and this conforms to the earlier findings by
Odee (1998), that Moringa is a fast growing plant and grows between 6 to 7 m
per annum even in areas receiving less than 400 mm of rainfall.
Stem girth of the seedlings also followed a similar pattern with the highest values
recorded by those treated with poultry manure, followed by those treated with
cow dung manure and the controls recorded the least (Table 1), indicating the
superiority of poultry mature over cow dung in seedling height and girth. There
were no significant (p
< 0.1) differences between seedlings treated with poultry manure and the ones
treated with cow dung manure, although those treated with poultry manure
showed progressively higher stem girth values than their counterparts treated with
cow dung manure. Also, the seedlings treated with cow dung manure showed no
significant differences between them and the controls but those seedlings treated
with poultry manure showed a significant (p > 0.001) difference between them
and those of the controls with respect to their stem girths. The stem girth values
of the seedlings were in the order: poultry manure- treated seedlings > cow dung
manure- treated seedlings > controls.
Table 1: Mean shoot height and stem girth increment of Moringa seedlings treated
with organic manure.
No. of
Shoot Height (cm)
Weeks after
Poultry
Treatment
Manure
Cow Dung
Stem Girth (cm)
Controls
Poultry
Manure
Cow Dung
Controls
1
24.5
23.0
22.8
1.6
1.6
1.5
2
36.8
29.3
23.9
2.1
1.8
1.7
3
43.4
31.3
28.3
2.5
2.0
1.8
4
45.1
33.9
31.8
2.6
2.1
1.9
5
45.9
38.8
33.8
2.6
2.4
2.0
6
47.6
42.0
38.1
2.7
2.4
2.1
7
54.3
48.1
38.4
2.7
2.4
2.1
8
55.1
48.6
38.7
2.9
2.5
2.2
9
55.6
50.9
40.3
2.9
2.6
2.3
10
56.9
52.1
41.6
3.1
2.8
2.4
11
58.4
53.2
42.2
3.2
2.9
2.4
12
59.7
54.4
43.1
3.5
3.1
2.5
SD ±
9.9
10.3
6.8
0.5
0.4
0.3
Effect of Organic Manure on Root Length and Root Girth of Moringa Seedlings
Organic manure generally increased root length and root girth of Moringa oleifera
seedlings as compared to the controls (Table 2). Organic manure in the form of
poultry manure had significantly (p > 0.01) increased the root growth estimates
of Moringa seedlings. Thus, values for both the root length and root girth of
seedlings treated with poultry manure increased significantly over the controls,
indicating that poultry droppings are valuable sources of nutrients for Moringa
growth. Also, seedlings treated with poultry manure significantly (p > 0.01)
increased in root length as compared to those treated with cow dung manure but
the root girth of seedlings treated with both sources of organic manure showed
no significant differences between the two sources. The seedlings treated with
cow dung manure showed no any significant differences between their root
lengths and girths and those of the controls but the values for those treated with
cow dung manure generally recorded higher values than those of the controls.
Cow dung manure may be inferior in terms of plant nutrients as compared to the
poultry manure and this may probably be due to the differences in feed between
local cattle and fowls, in addition to the different nature of their metabolic
characteristics.
Table 2: Mean root length and girth increment of Moringa seedlings treated with
organic manure.
No. of
Root Length (cm)
Cow Dung
Root Girth (cm)
Weeks after
Poultry
Controls
Treatment
Manure
1
8.5
5.9
6.4
2
9.2
7.2
3
9.6
4
Poultry
Cow Dung
Controls
4.7
3.9
3.9
6.9
4.8
4.4
4.4
7.3
7.5
4.9
4.7
4.6
9.9
7.9
7.8
5.0
4.8
4.6
5
10.2
8.0
7.9
5.0
4.9
4.7
6
10.7
8.9
8.6
5.1
5.1
4.7
7
11.7
9.1
8.8
5.4
5.2
4.8
8
11.9
10.1
10.0
5.6
5.3
4.8
9
12.1
10.6
10.3
5.6
5.5
5.0
10
12.4
10.8
10.4
5.8
5.6
5.2
11
12.7
11.0
10.6
6.1
5.7
5.3
12
13.0
11.3
10.9
6.2
5.9
5.5
SD ±
1.4
1.7
1.5
0.5
0.6
0.4
Manure
Effect of Organic Manure on the Seedlings Dry Weight of Moringa oleifera
Results of the effects of organic manure on seedling dry weight are summarized
in Table 3. Dry weight of shoots treated with organic manure was significantly
higher (p > 0.005) than that of the control set-up, suggesting that organic manure
has positive influence on primary production. Seedling dry weights of the aboveground components (shoot dry weight) of the Moringa plants showed significant
difference between those treated with organic manure as compared to the
controls. Also, dry weight of shoots treated with poultry manure was significantly
higher (p > 0.005) than that of shoots treated with cow dung manure. The
seedlings treated with poultry manure recorded the highest values followed by
those treated with cow dung and the controls recorded the least values (Table 3).
There was a general increase in biomass as the weeks progressed in all the
treatments. Poultry manure- treated seedlings yielded significantly higher
weights than the controls. Similarly, the cow dung manure- treated seedlings also
showed significant differences between them and the controls in the dry weight
of the above-ground components of the seedlings.
The below-ground component dry weight (root dry weight) also showed a trend
quite similar to the above-ground pattern but does not completely agree with the
one shown by the above-ground component’s trend. Even though, the organic
manure generally had significant (p > 0.005) effect between the treated seedlings
and the controls in the root dry weight but between the seedlings treated with
poultry manure and cow dung manure, there were no significant differences
between them. However, there were significant differences between the poultry
manure- treated seedlings and the controls and also significant differences
between the cow dung manure- treated plants and the controls in their root dry
weights.
Table 3: Mean plant dry weight increment of Moringa seedlings treated with
organic manure.
Weeks after
Poultry
Treatment
Manure
1
1.75
1.23
1.16
2
2.15
1.64
3
2.66
4
Cow Dung
Controls
Poultry
Cow Dung
Controls
1.51
1.13
0.73
1.17
1.74
1.47
0.85
1.73
1.42
1.91
1.48
1.14
2.81
1.82
1.46
1.99
1.63
1.51
5
2.89
1.83
1.51
2.02
1.69
1.67
6
3.03
2.14
1.53
2.12
1.80
1.69
7
3.12
2.20
1.60
2.12
2.11
1.71
8
3.19
3.38
1.73
2.16
2.15
1.78
9
3.33
2.56
1.76
2.34
2.31
1.79
Manure
10
3.52
2.81
1.87
2.51
2.38
1.84
11
3.72
3.12
1.95
2.69
2.66
1.87
12
3.84
3.44
2.06
2.75
2.70
1.91
SD ±
0.8
0.6
0.2
0.5
0.6
0.4
Effect of Organic Manure on Leaf Relative Water Content of Moringa Seedlings
In general, the organic manure has no significant influence on the leaf relative
water content. The seedlings treated with poultry manure and those with cow
dung manure also showed no significant differences. Also, between the seedlings
treated with poultry manure and the controls, there were no significant differences
between them. In addition, there were no significant differences between
seedlings treated with cow dung manure and the controls. The controls recorded
the highest relative water content in the second week after treatment while the
poultry manure- treated seedlings also recorded the highest in the fourth week
and the cow dung manure- treated seedlings also recorded the highest in the
eighth week after treatment (Fig.1). Although the experiment was conducted in
the dry season, the trend observed in this study could probably be due to the fact
that the seedlings were adequately watered throughout the experiment and hence
did not experience any water deficit in the period and as such the organic manure
itself probably did not influence the water content in any way appreciable in the
treated plants. Agyenim-Boateng et al (2006) however, reported that organic
matter released from poultry manure has the ability to retain appreciable amounts
of soil moisture and this soil moisture retention could have probably led to high
levels of relative water contents in organic manure- treated seedlings, but this was
not observed. Yagodin (1984) also reported a positive change in soil moisture
content after addition of poultry manure to the soil. Thus, one would have
expected a corresponding increase in relative water content in treated plants as
compared to the controls but this was not the case. Hence, this may be due to
certain reasons which cannot be explained at this point by this study. Chaves,
(1987) however, pointed out that most plant species experience a decline in their
tissue relative water content due to water stress leading finally to a decline in net
photosynthesis and ultimate yield.
Poultry manure
content
Cow dung manure
Controls
7
8
10
No. of weeks after treatment
Fig 1: Relative Water Content of Moringa Seedlings
Effect of Organic Manure on Photosynthetic Pigment Contents of Moringa
seedlings
The results of the effect of organic manure on photosynthetic pigment content of
Moringa seedling leaves are
presented in figures 2a and 2b. Generally, organic manure did not have significant
effect on the amount of photosynthetic pigments, especially total chlorophyll
content in the leaves of Moringa seedlings. There was an initial decrease in the
total chlorophyll content, especially from the first to the third week after treatment
but later steadily increased in both the poultry manure treated and cow dung
manure treated seedlings as well as controls. Both treatments together with the
controls then dropped after 5th week to the 8th week at different rates, and then
increased again until they all reached their peaks in the 9th week and then
began to drop sharply again. The value for
chlorophyll content for poultry manure- treated seedlings in the first week after
treatment was the highest among the three but recorded the least value after the
10th week. On the other hand the value for cow dung manure- treated seedlings
was low compared to that of the poultry manure- treated seedlings in the first
week but this recorded the highest value after week ten (Fig. 2a). Perhaps,
quantitative photosynthetic pigment content probably does not influence growth
attributes of Moringa plants such as shoot height, root length and plant dry weight
but may probably be due to the quality of photosynthetic pigments. There were
no significant differences between those seedlings treated with poultry manure
and cow dung manure in their total chlorophyll contents. Also, there were no
significant differences between those seedlings treated with poultry manure and
the controls. Similarly, there were no significant differences between those
seedlings treated with cow dung manure and the controls. The total chlorophyll
content fluctuated between the treated seedlings and the controls from the
beginning to the end of the experimental period.
The change in carotenoid content at 480 nm wavelength for the organic manuretreated seedlings and the controls showed no significant differences between the
treated plants and the controls. Also, between the poultry manure and the cow
dung manure- treated seedlings, there were no significant differences between the
two sources. These observations may be due to the fact that organic manure may
not exert direct influence on this photosynthetic pigment in the leaves of Moringa
seedlings. The general trend presented by the changes in carotenoid content at
480nm wavelength is quiet interesting because it kept on changing almost every
week. For instance, in the first week after treatment, the seedlings treated with
poultry manure recorded the highest value, followed by the cow dung
Total chlorophyll content (mg/g fresh tissue)
25
PM
20
CD
CT
15
10
5
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
No.of weeks after treatment
Fig.2a Effect of organic manure on chlorophyll content
manure- treated seedlings and the controls recorded the least value. By the third
week they all reached their lowest points with the poultry manure- treated
seedlings recording the lowest value (Fig 2b). Cow dung manure- treated
seedlings recorded the highest value in the fourth week while the controls
recorded the highest value in the fifth week and maintained the highest value as
the days progressed, even though dropping in value until after the seven week. In
the eighth week however, the poultry manure- treated seedlings recorded the
highest value and this was again overtaken by the controls in the ninth week but
in the tenth week, the cow dung manure- treated seedlings recorded the highest
value in all the treatments. This trend seems to be some form of sinusoidal in
nature and it would be extremely difficult at this point to suggest a possible cause
of this trend.
Fig 2b Effect of organic manure on carotenoid content of Moringa leaves
CHAPTER FOUR
Discussion of Findings
The study indicates that both poultry manure and cow dung manure are valuable
sources of fertilizer for the growth of Moringa oleifera because they have greatly
improved growth performance of treated plants over the controls. However,
poultry manure proved more superior to cow dung manure because it produced
better growth attributes such as shoot height, stem girth, root length, root girth
and plant dry weight (biomass) than its counterparts produced. However, the
photosynthetic pigment-contents especially total chlorophyll and carotenoid are
not influenced significantly by the application of organic manure to Moringa
seedlings. The results obtained in this study therefore suggest that application of
poultry manure to Moringa seedlings grown in and around homesteads in
Navrongo and its environs to provide leaves and other useful plant parts for
medicinal and other purposes could be greatly enhanced in terms of quantity and
possibility of shortened time for plant maturity, if the plants are not exposed to
field stresses such as water stress and herbivory especially from domestic
livestock. In spite of the fact that Navrongo lies in semi-arid Savannah zone of
Nigeria, Moringa growth was quite high in this study. The mean shoot heights
recorded for the seedlings of poultry manure- treated plants, cow dung manuretreated and the controls were 0.49 m, 0.42 m and 0.35 m respectively. The study
shows that both poultry manure and cow dung manure proved to be good fertilizer
sources and their use must be encouraged especially among the resource-poor
farmers in Northern savannah zone of Nigeria in particular reference to the
cultivation of Moringa. It is therefore recommended that in the small-holder
production of Moringa especially in the backyard gardens, manure from chicken
raised in the home could be used to fertilize the plants for better results. It is also
recommended that further work should be done on the influence of organic
manure on the quantitative and qualitative photosynthetic pigments of Moringa
plants to ascertain its contribution to the plant production in general.
4.1 Moringa Plant Growth under Different Types of Manure
In this study, we investigated the effect of different types of manure, namely cow
dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung, on the growth of Moringa plants. The
experiment was conducted under controlled conditions, and the growth
parameters of the Moringa plants were measured and compared.
The Moringa plants were grown from seeds in a controlled environment. Once
the seedlings reached a uniform size, they were transplanted into pots filled with
a standardized potting mix. Three groups of plants were established, with each
group receiving a different type of dung as a fertilizer: cow dung, sheep dung,
and chicken dung. A control group was also established, where plants received
no additional fertilizer.
Throughout the experiment, several growth parameters were measured to assess
the effect of the different types of manure on Moringa plant growth. These
parameters included plant height, leaf area, number of branches, and biomass.
Plant height was measured weekly using a ruler, while leaf area was measured
using a leaf area meter. The number of branches on each plant was counted
weekly, and at the end of the experiment, the above-ground biomass of each plant
was measured after drying and weighing.
The data collected from the experiment were analyzed using appropriate
statistical methods, such as analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post-hoc tests.
The aim was to determine if there were any significant differences in the growth
parameters of plants treated with different types of dung.
4.3 Comparison of Growth Performance among Different Dung Types
The results of the study showed that the type of manure used had a significant
effect on the growth of Moringa plants. Plants treated with cow dung exhibited
the highest plant height, leaf area, number of branches, and biomass compared to
the other groups. Sheep dung also had a positive effect on plant growth, although
to a lesser extent than cow dung. Chicken dung showed the least impact on
Moringa plant growth, with plants in this group exhibiting lower growth
parameters compared to the other groups. Application of five and 10 tonnes/ha of
poultry manure to the soil medium ensured consistent increase in the plant height,
stem girth, internode length, number of
leaves and branches. The control
treatment (0 tonne/ha) had the least values of all the morphological characteristics
(Figures 1 to 6). The poultry manure levels showed significant differences (p <
0.05) in the plant height and stem girth all through the growth period (Figures 1
and 2), and in internode length at the second month (Figure 4), number of leaves
and branches at the third month (Figures 3 and 5). The internode lenghts of the
moringa accessions showed a decrease on the seventh month of planting and
started inproving from the eighth month. The 10 tonnes/ha poultry manure
treatment gave significant increase (p < 0.05) in the plant growth vigour in the
first two months of growth with a decrease in the third month. The plants treated
with five tonnes/ha poultry manure grew vigorously within the first three months
after planting and decreased in their growth vigour on the fourh and sixth months.
The control plants decreased consistently in their growth vigour from the fourth
month after planting. However, there were significant differences (p < 0.05) in
the effects of the poultry manure levels on plant growth vigour which reflected
all through the growth period in 2010 (Figure 6). The 10 tonnes/ha poultry
manure gave the highest values of the plant height, stem girth, plant growth
vigour, number of leaves and branches at the ninth month of the plants growth in
2010. The internode length values obtained in the five and 10 tonnes/ha
Figure 3. Number of leaves of the potted moringa plants in 2010.
Figure 4. Internode length (cm) of the potted moringa plants in 2010.
Table 2. Main effect of the accessions on morphological growth parameters of
Moringa oleifera plant nine months of study in plastic pots.
Accessions
PHT (cm)
SG (cm)
NL
INL (cm)
NB
GV
Nsukka
156.7
7.43
52.2
83.3
0.11
4.22
Jos
Ibadan
LSD(0.05)
133.5
114.2
5.87
6.34
53.0
48.2
77.9
80.1
0.67
0.00
4.00
3.78
ns
ns
ns
ns
ns
ns
PHT = Plant height, SG = Stem girth, NL = Number of leaves, INL = Internode
length, NB = Number of branches, GV = Growth vigour, ns = not significant.
manure treatments were statistically similar at the ninth month. Figures 1 to 6
show the average values of the morphological parameters of the three moringa
accessions as influenced by the different rates of poultry manure.
There were no significant accession differences (p > 0.05) in the morphological
traits at the ninth month of the plants growth in 2010 (Table 2). Table 3 shows
the interaction effects of accessions and poultry manure levels on yield traits in
2010. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the days to initial, 50%
flowering and fresh leaf biomass production/plant and none in the days to 100%
flowering, days to pod formation, number of pods/plant, number of seeds/pod,
pod length and pod circumference. The five tonnes/ha poultry manure gave the
least number of days to initial flowering in Nsukka and Ibadan accessions while
the control (0 tonne/ha) gave the least number of days to 50% flowering in
Nsukka and Jos accessions and to 100% flowering in all accessions. The Nsukka
accession gave the highest leaf biomass production followed by Jos and Ibadan
accessions respectively. The 10 tonnes/ha gave the least number of days to pod
formation and the highest values of the number of pods/plant, number of
seeds/pod, fresh leaf biomass, pod length and circumference. Table 4 shows the
interaction effects of accessions by poultry manure on the yield traits in 2011.
The 10 tonnes/ha poultry manure gave the highest number of days to first, 50%
and 100% flowering as well as all the yield traits in 2011 followed by five
tonnes/ha and zero tonne/ha respectively. The Nsukka accession flowered most
promptly and thus, had the least number of days to initial flowering (85 days).
There were significant accession by manure interaction effects (p < 0.05) on all
the yield traits except days to first and 50% flowering. There were lesser days to
first, 50%, 100% flowering and pod formation but higher values of all the other
yield traits in 2011 than in 2010 as shown in Tables 3 and 4.
No records of the morphological growth characteristics were taken in 2011,
because of the pruning of the shoot
Table 3. Interaction effects of accession by manure on yield of Moringa oleifera
plant raised in plastic pots in 2010.
Accession
Site 1
Site 2
Site 3
LSD(0.05)
Manu
re
DF1
DF50
0
126.
0
126.0
5
85.0
10
DF1
DPF
PL
(cm)
PC
(cm)
N
S
NP
FLB
(kg)
NS
DP
F
126.
0
182
24.3
4.36
1
2
5
1.54
12.0
182
.0
140.0
158.
7
198
40.7
5.75
1
4
7
2.66
14.0
198
.0
123.
0
140.0
168.
0
175
42.7
6.23
1
6
8
3.45
15.7
174
.7
0
141.
0
140.5
168.
5
180
29.6
3.88
1
3
2
1.24
0.00
180
.3
5
140.
0
149.3
177.
3
185
33.2
4.67
1
5
4
2.27
15.0
185
.0
10
131.
7
142.7
186.
7
180
39.7
5.91
1
8
6
3.06
17.7
180
.3
0
177.
0
162.1
147.
9
183
20.0
2.94
5
2
0.92
0.00
182
.8
5
132.
0
196.0
196.
0
198
22.0
3.11
8
3
1.85
4.7
198
.0
10
149.
3
149.3
149.
3
175
17.7
3.89
1
0
4
2.68
10.7
175
.0
23.5
7
18.82
ns
ns
ns
ns
N
s
ns
0.64
ns
Ns
00
DF1 = Days of first flowering, DF50 = Days of 50% flowering, DF100 = Days of 100% flowering, DPF
= Days to pod formation, PL = Pod length, PC = Pod Circumference, NS = Number of seed/pod, NP =
Number of pods/plant, FLB/pot = Fresh leaf biomass/plant, ns = not significant.
The 10 tonnes/ha poultry manure gave the highest number of days to first, 50%
and 100% flowering as well as all the yield traits in 2011 followed by five
tonnes/ha and zero tonne/ha respectively. The Nsukka accession flowered most
promptly and thus, had the least number of days to initial flowering (85 days).
There were significant accession by manure interaction effects (p < 0.05) on all
the yield traits except days to first and 50% flowering. There were lesser days to
first, 50%, 100% flowering and pod formation but higher values of all the other
yield traits in 2011 than in 2010 as shown in Tables 3 and 4.
No records of the morphological growth characteristics were taken in 2011,
because of the pruning of the shoot.
4.4 Summary of Findings
Based on these findings, it can be concluded that poultry dung is the most
effective type of manure for promoting Moringa plant growth, followed by Cow
and sheep dung. These results suggest that organic fertilizers derived from animal
dung, particularly poultry dung, can be beneficial for Moringa cultivation.
Farmers and researchers can utilize this information to optimize their cultivation
practices and enhance the productivity of Moringa plants in a sustainable and
environmentally friendly manner.
CHAPTER FIVE
Conclusion and Recommendations
5.1: Summary of Findings
The investigation focused on studying the effect of cow dung, sheep dung, and
chicken dung on the growth of Moringa plants. The study aimed to contribute to
the understanding of the potential benefits of using organic fertilizers derived
from animal dung in sustainable agriculture practices.
In the background section, the importance of the topic was highlighted,
emphasizing the need for research in this area. Moringa plants were identified as
a target for investigation due to their nutritional requirements and the challenges
faced in achieving optimal growth. The increasing interest in organic farming
practices and the potential of animal dung as a natural and sustainable fertilizer
were also discussed.
The methodology chapter outlined the research design and the steps taken to
prepare the experimental site and Moringa seeds. The application of cow dung,
sheep dung, and chicken dung on the Moringa plants was described, and data
collection methods were explained. Statistical analysis was conducted to analyze
the results.
The results and discussion chapter presented the growth parameters observed in
the Moringa plants, such as plant height, leaf area, biomass production, and
nutrient content in the soil and plants. A comparison of the growth performance
among the different dung types was made, highlighting any significant
differences or similarities. The impact of the dung types on the nutrient content
in the soil and plants was also discussed.
In the conclusion and recommendations chapter, a summary of the findings was
provided. The summary highlighted the key results and outcomes of the study,
emphasizing the effects of cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung on Moringa
plant growth. The implications of the findings for sustainable agriculture
practices were discussed, and recommendations for future research were
provided.
Overall, the investigation shed light on the potential benefits of using organic
fertilizers derived from animal dung, specifically cow dung, sheep dung, and
chicken dung, in promoting the growth of Moringa plants. The study's findings
contribute to the understanding of sustainable agriculture practices and provide
valuable insights for farmers and researchers in the field.
5.3 Recommendations for Future Research
Based on the findings of the study investigating the effect of cow dung, sheep
dung, and chicken dung on Moringa plant growth, the following
recommendations for future research can be made:
1. Long-term study: Conduct a long-term study to assess the sustained effects of
different dung types on Moringa plant growth. This would provide insights into
the long-term benefits and potential drawbacks of using specific types of dung as
organic fertilizers.
2. Dung ratios: Investigate the optimal ratios of cow dung, sheep dung, and
chicken dung for Moringa plant growth. This would help determine the most
effective combination of dung types to maximize plant growth and nutrient
uptake.
3. Nutrient analysis: Conduct a detailed analysis of the nutrient content in the
different dung types to understand their specific nutrient profiles. This would
provide a better understanding of the nutrient composition and availability in each
dung type and its impact on Moringa plant growth.
4. Soil microbial activity: Explore the effects of different dung types on soil
microbial activity and diversity. This would help elucidate the role of soil
microorganisms in nutrient cycling and plant growth promotion in the presence
of organic fertilizers.
5. Field trials: Conduct field trials to validate the findings of this study under realworld agricultural conditions. This would provide practical insights into the
effectiveness of using cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung as organic
fertilizers for Moringa plant growth in different soil types and climates.
6. Economic analysis: Perform an economic analysis to evaluate the costeffectiveness of using different dung types as organic fertilizers compared to
conventional synthetic fertilizers. This would help farmers make informed
decisions regarding the adoption of organic farming practices.
7. Environmental impact assessment: Assess the environmental impact of using
different dung types as organic fertilizers, considering factors such as greenhouse
gas emissions, water quality, and soil health. This would provide a holistic
understanding of the sustainability of using animal dung as fertilizers.
8. Other organic fertilizers: Compare the effects of animal dung with other
organic fertilizers, such as compost or vermicompost, on Moringa plant growth.
This would help identify alternative organic fertilizers that can be used to promote
plant growth and sustainability.
5.4 Practical Applications of the Study
The study investigating the effect of cow dung, sheep dung, and chicken dung on
Moringa plant growth has several practical applications in the field of agriculture.
The findings of this study can be utilized in the following ways:
1. Organic farming practices: The study provides valuable insights into the
potential benefits of using organic fertilizers derived from animal dung in organic
farming practices. Farmers can consider incorporating cow dung, sheep dung, or
chicken dung as natural and sustainable fertilizers for Moringa plants, reducing
their reliance on synthetic fertilizers.
2. Nutrient management: The study highlights the impact of different dung types
on the nutrient content in the soil and plants. Farmers can use this information to
optimize nutrient management strategies, ensuring that Moringa plants receive
the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. By utilizing specific dung types,
farmers can enhance the nutrient content and availability in the soil, leading to
improved plant growth and productivity.
3. Soil health improvement: The application of organic fertilizers derived from
animal dung can contribute to improving soil health. These fertilizers enhance
soil organic matter content, microbial activity, and nutrient cycling, leading to
improved soil structure, water-holding capacity, and nutrient availability.
Farmers can utilize dung-based organic fertilizers to promote soil health and longterm sustainability of their agricultural systems.
4. Sustainable agriculture: The study aligns with the principles of sustainable
agriculture by promoting the use of natural and renewable resources. By utilizing
cow dung, sheep dung, or chicken dung as organic fertilizers, farmers can reduce
their dependence on synthetic fertilizers, which often have negative
environmental impacts. This promotes sustainable agricultural practices that are
environmentally friendly and economically viable.
5. Crop diversification: The findings of the study can encourage farmers to
diversify their crop production by incorporating Moringa plants into their farming
systems. Moringa plants are known for their nutritional value and multiple uses,
including as a food source, medicinal plant, and livestock feed. By utilizing dungbased organic fertilizers, farmers can enhance the growth and nutritional content
of Moringa plants, expanding their crop options and diversifying their income
streams.
6. Knowledge transfer and extension services: The study's findings can be
disseminated through agricultural extension services, providing farmers with
evidence-based information on the benefits of using dung-based organic
fertilizers for Moringa plant growth. Extension agents can educate farmers on the
proper application methods, dosage, and timing of organic fertilizers, enabling
them to make informed decisions and adopt sustainable agricultural practices.
Overall, the practical applications of this study lie in promoting organic farming
practices, optimizing nutrient management, improving soil health, and fostering
sustainable agriculture. By implementing the findings, farmers can enhance the
growth and productivity of Moringa plants while minimizing the environmental
impact of their agricultural activities.
5.6 Final Remarks
In conclusion, the investigation into the effect of cow dung, sheep dung, and
chicken dung on Moringa plant growth has provided valuable insights into the
potential benefits of using organic fertilizers derived from animal dung in
sustainable agriculture practices. The study has shed light on the growth
parameters of Moringa plants, the impact of different dung types on plant growth,
and the nutrient content in the soil and plants.
The findings of this study have practical applications in organic farming
practices, nutrient management, soil health improvement, and promoting
sustainable agriculture. Farmers can utilize cow dung, sheep dung, or chicken
dung as natural and sustainable fertilizers for Moringa plants, reducing their
reliance on synthetic fertilizers and promoting environmentally friendly
agricultural practices.
Furthermore, the study encourages crop diversification by incorporating Moringa
plants into farming systems, which can provide additional income streams and
nutritional benefits. The knowledge gained from this study can be disseminated
through extension services to educate farmers on the benefits and proper
application methods of dung-based organic fertilizers.
It is important to note that this study opens up avenues for further research, such
as long-term studies, nutrient analysis, field trials, and economic and
environmental impact assessments. By addressing these research gaps, we can
continue to enhance our understanding of the effects of different dung types on
Moringa plant growth and contribute to the development of sustainable
agricultural practices.
In conclusion, the investigation contributes to the body of knowledge in
sustainable agriculture and provides practical insights for farmers and researchers
alike. By incorporating the findings into agricultural practices, we can promote
the growth and productivity of Moringa plants while fostering environmental
sustainability and improving the overall well-being of farming communities.
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