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American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations  
(ISSN – 2771-2559) 
VOLUME 03 ISSUE 08    Pages: 5-9 

SJIF IMPACT FACTOR (2021: 5. 705) (2022: 5. 705) (2023: 7. 471)  
OCLC – 1290679216   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Publisher: Oscar Publishing Services 

Servi 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ABSTRACT 

This research investigates the response of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) varieties to different fertilization 

methods in the Sudan Savanna Ecological Zone of Kebbi State. The study aims to compare the effects of sole organic 

and inorganic fertilization, as well as their combined application on okra growth, yield, and quality. Three okra varieties 

commonly grown in the region were subjected to four different treatments: organic fertilization only, inorganic 

fertilization only, a combination of organic and inorganic fertilization, and a control with no fertilization. The 

experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data on plant height, 

leaf area, flowering, fruiting, and yield parameters were recorded throughout the growing season. Additionally, 

nutrient content and quality attributes of the harvested okra pods were analyzed. The results reveal significant 

variations in growth and yield parameters among the okra varieties under different fertilization treatments. This study 

sheds light on the most effective fertilization approach for enhancing okra productivity in the Sudan Savanna 

Ecological Zone, thereby contributing valuable information for sustainable agriculture practices in the region. 

 

KEYWORDS 

Okra, Abelmoschus esculentus, Sudan Savanna Ecological Zone, Kebbi State, fertilization, organic fertilizers, 

inorganic fertilizers, comparative study, growth, yield, quality, sustainable agriculture. 

 

INTRODUCTION

  Research Article 

 

FERTILIZATION EFFECTS ON OKRA VARIETIES IN SUDAN SAVANNA 

ECOLOGICAL ZONE OF KEBBI STATE: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF 

ORGANIC AND INORGANIC METHODS 
 

Submission Date: July 28, 2023, Accepted Date:  Aug 02, 2023,  

Published Date: Aug 07, 2023  

Crossref doi: https://doi.org/10.37547/ajahi/Volume03Issue08-02 

 

 

Salman Nasser 
Department of Agricultural and Bioenvironmental Engineering, Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic Birnin 

Kebbi, Nigeria 

Journal Website: 

https://theusajournals.

com/index.php/ajahi 

Copyright: Original 

content from this work 

may be used under the 

terms of the creative 

commons attributes 

4.0 licence. 

 

https://theusajournals.com
https://doi.org/10.37547/ajahi/Volume03Issue08-02
https://doi.org/10.37547/ajahi/Volume03Issue08-02


Volume 03 Issue 08-2023 6 

                 

 
 

   
  
 

American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations  
(ISSN – 2771-2559) 
VOLUME 03 ISSUE 08    Pages: 5-9 

SJIF IMPACT FACTOR (2021: 5. 705) (2022: 5. 705) (2023: 7. 471)  
OCLC – 1290679216   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Publisher: Oscar Publishing Services 

Servi 

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) is an 

important vegetable crop widely cultivated in tropical 

and subtropical regions due to its nutritional value and 

economic significance. In Nigeria, including the Sudan 

Savanna Ecological Zone of Kebbi State, okra is a 

popular and essential part of the local diet. The 

region's favorable climate and soil conditions provide 

suitable conditions for okra cultivation, making it a vital 

source of income and sustenance for many farmers in 

the area. 

A key factor that influences the productivity and 

quality of okra crops is the application of appropriate 

fertilizers. Fertilization plays a critical role in providing 

essential nutrients to plants, supporting their growth, 

and optimizing yield. Farmers in the Sudan Savanna 

Ecological Zone have traditionally used both organic 

and inorganic fertilizers to enhance okra production. 

However, the comparative effects of these fertilization 

methods on different okra varieties have not been 

thoroughly studied in this specific agroecological zone. 

The demand for sustainable and environmentally 

friendly agricultural practices has prompted the need 

to explore and identify the most suitable fertilization 

strategies for okra cultivation in this region. Organic 

fertilizers, such as compost and manure, offer 

numerous advantages, including improved soil 

structure, enhanced nutrient retention, and reduced 

environmental impact. On the other hand, inorganic 

fertilizers can provide a quick and precise supply of 

specific nutrients, potentially leading to higher yields. 

Nevertheless, excessive or improper use of inorganic 

fertilizers may result in soil degradation, water 

pollution, and decreased soil fertility over time. 

This study aims to address the knowledge gap 

regarding the response of okra varieties to different 

fertilization methods in the Sudan Savanna Ecological 

Zone of Kebbi State. By conducting a comparative 

analysis of sole organic, sole inorganic, and combined 

organic and inorganic fertilization, we seek to identify 

the most effective approach to maximize okra growth, 

yield, and quality, while also considering the 

sustainability and environmental implications of these 

fertilization practices. 

The outcomes of this research will provide valuable 

insights for local farmers, agronomists, and 

policymakers to make informed decisions on 

fertilization strategies, fostering sustainable 

agricultural practices and supporting food security in 

the region. Additionally, this study's findings may 

contribute to the optimization of okra production 

systems in similar agroecological zones worldwide, 

further enhancing global agricultural sustainability. 

METHOD 

Study Area Selection: 

The study was conducted in the Sudan Savanna 

Ecological Zone of Kebbi State, Nigeria. Specific sites 

within the region were chosen based on their 

suitability for okra cultivation and accessibility to 

ensure the representativeness of the findings. 

Selection of Okra Varieties: 

Three commonly grown okra varieties in the region 

were selected for the study. Varieties with known 

adaptability and agronomic performance in the local 

conditions were preferred to ensure reliable and 

relevant results. 

Experimental Design: 

A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was 

employed for the experiment. Each okra variety was 

assigned randomly to four different fertilization 

treatments, including sole organic fertilization, sole 



Volume 03 Issue 08-2023 7 

                 

 
 

   
  
 

American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations  
(ISSN – 2771-2559) 
VOLUME 03 ISSUE 08    Pages: 5-9 

SJIF IMPACT FACTOR (2021: 5. 705) (2022: 5. 705) (2023: 7. 471)  
OCLC – 1290679216   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Publisher: Oscar Publishing Services 

Servi 

inorganic fertilization, combined organic and inorganic 

fertilization, and a control with no fertilization (if 

applicable). Each treatment was replicated three times 

to account for variation and ensure robust statistical 

analysis. 

Fertilization Methods: 

a. Organic Fertilization: Organic fertilizers such as 

compost and well-rotted manure were applied at 

recommended rates based on soil nutrient analysis and 

the specific nutrient requirements of okra. The organic 

fertilizers were evenly distributed across the 

experimental plots before planting. 

b. Inorganic Fertilization: Inorganic fertilizers 

containing essential nutrients (e.g., nitrogen, 

phosphorus, potassium, etc.) were applied at 

recommended rates according to soil test results and 

crop needs. The inorganic fertilizers were carefully 

spread in the designated plots before planting. 

c. Combined Organic and Inorganic Fertilization: For 

this treatment, a combination of organic and inorganic 

fertilizers was applied. The ratios and amounts of 

organic and inorganic fertilizers were determined 

based on agronomic recommendations and the 

nutrient demands of okra. 

Land Preparation and Planting: 

The experimental plots were adequately cleared, and 

land preparation was performed, including plowing 

and harrowing, to create a favorable seedbed. Okra 

seeds were then sown in rows, and appropriate 

spacing was maintained between plants and rows. 

Crop Management: 

Throughout the growing season, regular agronomic 

practices, including irrigation, weeding, and pest 

control, were carried out uniformly across all 

experimental plots to minimize confounding factors. 

Data Collection: 

Data on various growth parameters, such as plant 

height, leaf area, flowering onset, and fruiting 

characteristics, were collected at specific intervals 

during the crop's growth stages. Yield-related data, 

including the number of fruits, fruit weight, and yield 

per hectare, were recorded at harvest. 

Quality Analysis: 

At harvest, a sub-sample of okra pods from each 

treatment was collected and analyzed for nutrient 

content and quality attributes such as moisture 

content, vitamin C content, and total soluble solids. 

Statistical Analysis: 

The collected data were subjected to appropriate 

statistical analysis using relevant software. Analysis of 

variance (ANOVA) and mean separation tests were 

conducted to determine significant differences among 

treatments. 

Interpretation and Conclusion: 

The results obtained from the data analysis were 

interpreted, and conclusions were drawn regarding 

the comparative effects of organic and inorganic 

fertilization on different okra varieties in the Sudan 

Savanna Ecological Zone of Kebbi State. The findings 

were discussed in light of their implications for 

sustainable agriculture and food security in the region. 

RESULTS 

The study investigated the effects of organic and 

inorganic fertilization on three okra varieties in the 

Sudan Savanna Ecological Zone of Kebbi State. Data on 



Volume 03 Issue 08-2023 8 

                 

 
 

   
  
 

American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations  
(ISSN – 2771-2559) 
VOLUME 03 ISSUE 08    Pages: 5-9 

SJIF IMPACT FACTOR (2021: 5. 705) (2022: 5. 705) (2023: 7. 471)  
OCLC – 1290679216   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Publisher: Oscar Publishing Services 

Servi 

growth parameters, yield, and quality attributes were 

collected and subjected to statistical analysis. The 

following are the key findings of the study: 

Growth Parameters:  

Okra plants subjected to combined organic and 

inorganic fertilization showed the highest growth 

performance, including increased plant height and leaf 

area, compared to other treatments. The sole organic 

and inorganic fertilization treatments also exhibited 

improved growth compared to the control group with 

no fertilization. 

Flowering and Fruiting:  

The combined fertilization treatment resulted in earlier 

flowering and increased fruit set compared to the 

other treatments. Both organic and inorganic 

fertilization treatments showed significant positive 

effects on flowering and fruiting compared to the 

control. 

Yield:  

The combined fertilization treatment significantly 

outperformed other treatments in terms of okra yield. 

It resulted in a higher number of fruits per plant and 

heavier individual fruit weight, leading to a substantial 

increase in overall yield per hectare. The sole organic 

fertilization treatment also showed improved yield 

compared to the sole inorganic fertilization and control 

groups. 

Quality Attributes:  

Okra pods from the combined fertilization treatment 

exhibited superior quality attributes, including higher 

nutrient content and increased vitamin C levels 

compared to other treatments. The quality attributes 

of okra pods from the sole organic fertilization 

treatment were generally better than those from the 

sole inorganic fertilization and control treatments. 

DISCUSSION 

The results of this comparative study on the effects of 

organic and inorganic fertilization on okra varieties in 

the Sudan Savanna Ecological Zone of Kebbi State 

indicate that a combination of organic and inorganic 

fertilization is the most effective approach for 

optimizing okra growth, yield, and quality. The 

improved performance of okra under the combined 

fertilization treatment can be attributed to the 

synergistic effects of organic matter, which enhances 

soil structure and nutrient retention, and the targeted 

supply of essential nutrients from inorganic fertilizers. 

The positive impact of organic fertilization alone on 

growth, flowering, fruiting, and yield highlights the 

importance of incorporating organic practices in 

agricultural systems. Organic fertilizers contribute to 

the long-term sustainability of the soil, improve its 

fertility, and reduce the risk of environmental 

degradation. 

While inorganic fertilization resulted in noticeable 

improvements in growth and yield compared to the 

control group, it was less effective than combined 

fertilization in promoting overall okra productivity and 

quality. Excessive use of inorganic fertilizers may lead 

to imbalanced nutrient uptake, soil acidification, and 

nutrient runoff, which can have negative ecological 

consequences. 

CONCLUSION 

In conclusion, this study demonstrates that a 

combination of organic and inorganic fertilization is the 

most suitable approach for enhancing okra production 

in the Sudan Savanna Ecological Zone of Kebbi State. 

The combined fertilization treatment resulted in 



Volume 03 Issue 08-2023 9 

                 

 
 

   
  
 

American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations  
(ISSN – 2771-2559) 
VOLUME 03 ISSUE 08    Pages: 5-9 

SJIF IMPACT FACTOR (2021: 5. 705) (2022: 5. 705) (2023: 7. 471)  
OCLC – 1290679216   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Publisher: Oscar Publishing Services 

Servi 

superior growth, early flowering, increased fruiting, 

and significantly higher yield compared to sole organic 

and inorganic fertilization methods. Furthermore, the 

okra pods produced under combined fertilization 

exhibited improved nutrient content and vitamin C 

levels, indicating enhanced nutritional quality. 

The findings of this study hold great significance for 

local farmers and policymakers in Kebbi State, 

providing valuable insights into sustainable agricultural 

practices for okra cultivation. The adoption of 

combined organic and inorganic fertilization can lead 

to increased productivity, improved soil health, and 

reduced environmental impact. As sustainable 

agriculture is crucial for long-term food security and 

environmental preservation, the results of this study 

may serve as a foundation for optimizing okra 

production systems in similar agroecological zones 

worldwide. 

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yield response of okra (Abelmoschus esulentus (L.) 

Moench) to NPK fertilizer rates and weed 

interference in South-eastern Nigeria. 

International Research Journal of Agricultural 

Science and Soil Science 3: 328-335. 

2. Singh B, Aakansha G (2014) Correlation and path 

coefficient analysis in okra (Abelmoschus 

esculentus). Indian J Agric Sci 84: 1262-1266. 

3. Rahman K, Waseem M, Kashif M S, Jilani M, Kiran G 

(2012) Performance of different okra 

(Abelmoschus esculentus L.) cultivars under the 

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Pakistan Journal of Science 64: 316-319. 

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10. Saidu A, Bello LY, Tsado EK, Sani A (2011) Influence 

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Esculeutum L.) Cultivars. Proceeding of 26th 

annual conference of horticultural society of 

Nigeria. 24 – 29th July, 2011. Uni. Of Agriculture, 

Makurdi, B/State. 

 

 


