NASS Journal of Agricultural Sciences

Superabsorbent Polymer and Rabbit Manure Improve Soil Moisture, Growth and Yield of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)

Elisha Otieno Gogo

Pwani University

Annah Wanjala Mnyika

Pwani University；Taita Taveta County Government

Simon Muti Mbuvi

Pwani University

DOI: https://doi.org/10.36956/njas.v2i1.93

Received: 29 August 2020; Published: 29 September 2020

Abstract

Production of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is influenced by limited soil water and fertility conditions that affect its growth and yield. The use of superabsorbent polymer (SAP), also known as slush powder and rabbit manure are among the strategies that can improve soil conditions, hence growth and yield of crops. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of SAP and rabbit manure on soil moisture, growth and yield of eggplant. The study was conducted at Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used. The treatments were SAP, rabbit manure, SAP plus rabbit manure and control (without SAP or rabbit manure). Soil moisture, growth and yield parameters were determined. Superabsorbent polymer and/or rabbit manure improved soil moisture, growth and yield of eggplant compared with the control. Use of SAP had a better soil moisture retention, growth and yield comparable to SAP combined with rabbit manure. The finding demonstrates that use of SAP and/or rabbit manure may help in better soil water and nutrient management particularly in arid and semi-arid areas to improve growth and yield of eggplant.

Keywords: Soil amendment, soil moisture conservation, soil fertility, organic fertilizer, crop quality

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