COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF DIFFERENT RATES OF ORGANIC MANURE AND NPK ON SOME MORPHOLOGICAL GROWTH PARAMETERS OF MAIZE.

ABSTRACT This study investigates the effects of different rates of organic manure (chicken droppings and cow dung) and inorganic fertilizer (NPK 15:15:15) on the morphological growth parameters of maize (Zea mays). Conducted in a controlled environment, the experiment utilized a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with seven treatments and three replicates, including a control. Key growth parameters measured include plant height, stem diameter, leaf area, number of leaves, root length, and root number.The results indicate significant variations in plant height and stem diameter across treatments, with chicken droppings at 0.5 kg consistently outperforming other treatments in enhancing plant height at all growth stages. However, cow dung at 0.5 kg recorded the lowest values for plant height and stem diameter in the early stages. Leaf area, number of leaves, root length, and root number showed no statistically significant differences between treatments, suggesting minimal treatment influence on these parameters.The findings underscore the potential of organic manure, particularly chicken droppings at optimal rates, to improve specific growth parameters in maize. Inorganic fertilizer (NPK) was effective but less impactful than organic manure in promoting plant height. The study highlights the need for integrated nutrient management approaches that combine organic and inorganic inputs to maximize maize productivity.Challenges included the short-term focus on early growth stages and the use of controlled conditions, limiting the applicability of results to field environments. Future studies are recommended to explore long-term impacts, environmental factors, and yield components to develop comprehensive fertilizer management strategies. These insights contribute to sustainable agricultural practices by optimizing nutrient use efficiency and improving maize cultivation outcomes.