Evaluation of poultry manure application rate and plant population on growth, dry matter partitioning and nutrient uptake of Coc k ’s comb (Celosia argentea. L)

Abstract

Cock’s comb (Celosia argentea L.) is an important leaf vegetable in the tropics grown for its succulent leaves that are rich sources of protein, vitamins and minerals essential for combating malnutrition, especially in the rural communities. Two field experiments were conducted to evaluate the growth, dry matter partitioning and nutrient uptake of Cock's comb in response to different application rates of poultry manure (PM) and plant population between August 2013 and July 201 4. The experiment was a split plot arrangement fitted into a randomized complete block design, with four replicates. PM was applied at 0, 5 and 10 t/ha while Cock’s comb was established at plant populations of 200,000 and 400,000 plants/ha in the late season of 2013 and early season of 201 4 concurrently. Data were taken on plant growth, dry matter partioning, yield and nutrient contents. Application of 5 t/ha PM significantly (P≤ 0.05) increased plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, total fresh yield of stem and leaves, leaf dry weight, stem dry weight, root dry weight and total dry weight relative to plants in control plots in the early and late seasons. Plant population had no significant effect on growth and dry matter partitioning of Cock’s comb. Interaction of PM and plant population on nitrogen uptake was significantly high when 10 t/ha PM was applied at 400,000 plants/ha. Phosphorus and Potassium uptake increased in plots fertilized with 5 t/ha PM at at 400,000 plants/ha. For optimum growth, dry matter yield and nutrient uptake, Cock’s comb could be planted at a population up to 400,000 plants/ha with 5 t/ha PM.