EVALUATION OF POTTING MEDIA FOR SOUR SOP

ABSTRACT

This study was aimed at evaluating the effects of potting media on the growth of rooted seedlings of Annona muricata, with a view to providing best treatment to enhance nursery seedling production of the species. This experiment was conducted at the screen house of the Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin, Benin City. The seeds of Annona muricata were obtained from three (3) locations in Edo State Nigeria (Location 1: Isihor; Location 2: Emu; Location 3: Ikabigbo). The experiment was laid in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 3 replications and five potting media. The mixtures consisted of sole Top soil, Top soil + poultry manure (PM), Top soil + Wood shavings, Top soil + Cattle dung and Top soil + Oil palm refuse bunches. Data were collected for early seedling growth parameters such as Number of leaves, plant height, Collar girth, leaf length, leaf breadth, leaf area, root length, fresh/wet weight and dry weight. There were significant differences in Collar girth, plant height and dry weight across the different location. The result of the study revealed that almost all of the parameters considered were significantly influenced by the treatments or their interaction effects. There were variations among varieties for plant height, collar girth and number of leaves. Collar girth, plant height and number of leaves was highest in top soil. The poor result obtained from some of the media was an indication that no significant production could be made without correction of nutrient status, aeration and water holding capacity of the potting media. Therefore it is recommended to find a suitable soil mix that will help to produce vigorous root growth in  the nursery before they are transplanted to their permanent site to ensure good seedlings for plantation or orchard establishment.