Effects of split application of organo-minerals fertilizers on Okra growth nutrient uptake and fruit yield

In two seasons and at two locations, the effects of maize stover compost in combination with mineral fertilizer and their methods of application on growth, nutrient uptake and yield of okra was studied. The treatments used are recommended dose of NPL mineral fertilizer, (60kg N + 30kg P 2 O 5 + 20kgK 2 O) recommended dose of N through compost. (4t/ha). Half recommended dose of N each through compost (2t/ha) and mineral fertilizer (30ka/ha) and non-fertilized control. Sub-treatments included three timing (single, 2- and 3- split) of application of the fertilizer combination. The tallest plants of 46.7cm and widest leaf of 3011.0cm 2 /plant were obtained with the use of 4t/ha maize stove compost. This rate equally produced the highest percent fruit set (85%) and mean fruit weight of 148.4g. The result indicated that crop performance under 4t/ha compost application rate was as effective as the combine use of 2t/ha compost + 30kg N/ha mineral fertilizer. With regard to timing of fertilizer application, 2 split application increased the efficiency of the fertilizer use. The results of the investigation further indicated that highest crop growth, nutrients uptake and fruit yield could be realized by combine application of 2t/ha compost and 30kg N/ha fertilizer. The efficiency of the fertilizer could be increased through 2-split application of the fertilizer combination. Keywords : Manure, fertilizer, okra and method of fertilizer application, tomato yields Nigerian Journal of Horticultural Science Vol. 9 2005: 102-109