Effects of Irrigation Methods and Soil Amendment Practices on Growth and Yield of Okra

Abstract

Irregular rainfall pattern and distribution coupled with soil health challenges has led to water stress challenges, hindering crop and water productivity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the interactive effect of irrigation methods and soil amendment practices on soil chemical characteristics, moisture content, growth, yield and water productivity of okra during the production season. Generally, there was a sharp decrease in the soil pH, EC, nitrogen and phosphorus content after the experiment indicating the use of soil nutrients by plants under each treatment. The average soil moisture content as influenced by soil amendment practices, ranked as cow dung > 50% cow dung + 50 % NPK > NPK > zero soil amendment. Supplementary irrigated okra had 6.3%, 17.5%, 25.1%, 35.4% and 19.7% increase in chlorophyl content, plant height, stem girth, leaf area index and yield of okra than rainfed okra. Supplementary irrigated okra combined with cow dung treated soils (20.1 t/ha) as well as soil treated with 50 % cow dung and 50 % NPK (20 t/ha) recorded similar yield, being the best yield. These combinations are recommended for farmers for better economic value and soil water retention, towards soil health.