Effect of Pig manure rates on performance of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) and Podagrica uniforma Jacq. Infestation in South Western Nigeria

Abstract

Insect infestation and low soil fertility are the major constrictions in okra production and various tactics have been recommended for increased production. An experiment was conceived to explore the effects of different levels of pig manure on the performances and severity of damage caused by Podagrica uniforma Jacq. infestation on okra in South Western, Nigeria. The research was arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four treatments (0 t.ha-1, 5 t.ha-1, 10 t.ha-1, 15 t.ha-1 and 20 t.ha-1) replicated thrice. Okra growth, fruit yield, insect population and severity of damaged leaves were assessed and exposed to the Analysis of Variance, and Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at a 5 % level of significance was used to separate significant treatment means. The study outcomes revealed that okra growth and yield parameters were directly proportional as the pig manure rates increase. A similar trend was equally recorded for P. uniforma population in okra plants enriched with variable rates of pig manure, okra supplied with 20 t.ha-1 of pig manure exhibited the highest growth, yield performance and P. uniforma population. While the severity of leaf damage caused by P. uniforma was in descending order, very low in okra enriched with varying levels of pig manure as compared to the damage recorded in control. The trial showed that okra growth and yield was significantly (p<0.05) enhanced by the application of 20 t.ha-1 pig manure with a resultant reduction in the severity of damaged leaves caused by P. uniforma infestation.