Influence of biofertilizer produced using drumstick (Moringa oleiferaL.) unused parts on the growth performance of two leafy vegetables

Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences -Q4

Phan Thu Thảo - Tay Nguyen Institute of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dong A University, 33 Xo Viet Nghe Tinh, Da Nang, Vietnam

ABSTRACT

The non-edible parts of Moringa oleifera,such as stems, branches or leaf petioles, have often been discarded while the leaves are consumed as a vegetable or are used to produce organic fertilizer. This study aimed to determine the optimal conditions for producing Moringaorganic fertilizer (MOF)from previously unused parts and to compare these fertilizers with cow manure and bio-organic fertilizer. Seventy kilograms of the unused Moringaparts were blended with fifty kilograms of manure, 0.2 kilogram of Trichoderma-based product and two kilograms of superphosphate. The mixture was incubated at different intervals, including 5, 7 or 9 weeks. Next, the effects of MOF on the growth, yield, ascorbic acid content and Brix of lettuce and mustard spinach were also determined and compared with other organic fertilizers (cow manure and bio-organic fertilizer). Results of the study revealed that 25 tons per ha of MOF were significantly superior to those treated with cow manure and bio-organic fertilizer in the case of vegetable yields. Further, 7 weeks of MOF incubation was found suitable to produce an optimal yield during the various incubation period. These results suggested that the Moringanon-edible parts can make organic fertilizer and enhance growth, yield, and leafy vegetable production.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18006/2023.11(2).280.289