EFFECT OF TOPSOIL AND POULTRY MANURE AS A POTTING MEDIUM ON THE GROWTH AND YIELD OF AMARANTH (Amaranthus cruentus L.)

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in  screen house experiment to determine the effect of potting media on the growth and fresh yield of Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus L.). The experiment involves the use of 5 treatments Topsoil (TS), Poultry Manure(PM), TS + PM 1:1, TS + PM 2:1, TS + PM 1:2. The experimental design used was a completely randomized design (CRD) 5 treatments and replicated times. Data were collected on plant height, stem girth, number of leaves, leave length and leaf width at 3,5,7, 8weeks after sowing. The growth and fresh  herbage yield  were significantly (P<0.05) influenced by potting media. The Topsoil had the highest yield  but only significantly higher than the TS + PM 2:1. For urban farmers, Topsoil potting media is suggested for the growth and maximum yield of Amaranth.