Effects of Poultry Manure and Legume Tree Prunings on Soil Properties, Growth and Yield of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) under Field Conditions in Ghana

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of integrated nutrient management using poultry manure and legume tree prunings on the growth and yield of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) under field conditions in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Study Design: A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications was used. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out from January to August 2022 at the Research Farm of Adanwomase Senior High School in the Kwabre East District and at the AAMUSTED Research Field, Asante Mampong Campus. Methodology: Seven treatments comprising sole and combined applications of poultry manure, Gliricidia sepium, and Leucaena leucocephala prunings, as well as a control, were evaluated. The treatments included: (i) 10 t/ha Gliricidia sepium, (ii) 10 t/ha Leucaena leucocephala, (iii) 10 t/ha poultry manure, (iv) 5 t/ha Gliricidia sepium + 5 t/ha poultry manure, (v) 5 t/ha Leucaena leucocephala + 5 t/ha poultry manure, (vi) 5 t/ha Gliricidia sepium + 5 t/ha Leucaena leucocephala, and (vii) a control (no amendment). Soil samples were collected before planting and after harvest to assess changes in soil chemical properties. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, and treatment means were separated using Tukey’s HSD test at 5% level of probability. Results: Application of poultry manure and legume tree prunings, either alone or in combination, significantly improved soil chemical properties, vegetative growth, and yield of cucumber at both locations. Cucumber growth was greatest under 10 t/ha poultry manure, which produced the longest vines and the highest number of leaves. Fruit size was enhanced by the combined application of 5 t/ha Leucaena leucocephala and 5 t/ha poultry manure, while the highest total fruit weight and overall yield were obtained with 10 t/ha poultry manure. The sole application of 10 t/ha Gliricidia sepium and the control treatment recorded the poorest performance for most growth and yield parameters. Conclusion: The combination of 5 t/ha Leucaena leucocephala + 5 t/ha poultry manure is ideal for enhancing fruit size and length, while 10 t/ha poultry manure is best for maximizing yield. Continued use of organic amendments should be encouraged as a sustainable alternative to inorganic fertilizers, promoting long-term soil productivity.