ASSESSMENTS OF THE EFFECT OF THE DIFFERENT LEVELS OF ORGANIC MANURE ON THE GROWTH OF POTTED MORINGA OLEIFERA SEEDLINGS

ABSTRACT This study assessed the effect of different levels of organic manure on the growth performance of Moringa oleifera seedlings under nursery conditions. The experiment was carried out at the Forestry and Wildlife Nursery of Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five treatments: 0% (control), 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% organic manure. Data were collected on seedling height, stem diameter, number of leaves, and root length for a period of six weeks. The results showed that organic manure had a significant positive effect on all growth parameters. Seedlings grown in 75% and 100% organic manure exhibited the highest growth performance, with greater height, thicker stems, more leaves, and longer roots compared to other treatments. The control treatment, which contained only river sand, recorded the lowest growth values, indicating nutrient deficiency. The findings demonstrate that organic manure improves soil fertility, enhances nutrient availability, and promotes vigorous seedling development. The study concludes that higher concentrations of organic manure substantially enhance the growth of Moringa oleifera seedlings. It recommends the use of at least 50% organic manure for nursery production and suggests further research on long-term field performance and economic optimization.