The Effects of Organic Fertilizers on the Growth and Yield of Amaranthus (Amaranthus hybridus L.) Grown in a Lath House
Samkeliso N. Dlamini
Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Eswatini, P.O. Luyengo M205, Luyengo, Eswatini.
Michael T. Masarirambi *
Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Eswatini, P.O. Luyengo M205, Luyengo, Eswatini.
Paul K. Wahome
Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Eswatini, P.O. Luyengo M205, Luyengo, Eswatini.
Tajudeen O. Oseni
Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Eswatini, P.O. Luyengo M205, Luyengo, Eswatini.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Amaranthus is also known as African spinach is a good source of carotene, folic acid, vitamin C, calcium, iron and micronutrients. It is believed to have been used widely among hunter-gatherers. The objective of the experiment was to find the effects of organic fertilizers on amaranthus growth, development and yield. The experimental design was a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four treatments and each replicated five times. Plant growth and yield increased (P<0.05) on amaranths fertilized with stillage. Kraal manure followed the stillage in terms of performance with the control (no fertilizer) recording the least significant effect on growth and yield of amaranthus. Because of stillage's impact on the growth and yield of amaranthus, it is recommended for a grower aiming for high yields of amaranthus using organic fertilizer.
Keywords: Amaranthus, climate-smart, organic fertilizers, lath house, growth and yield.