Abstract
Field experiments were carried out for two dry seasons (2012/13 and 2013/14) to study the effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on growth and yield of red onion in the soils of Michika, northern guinea savannah, Nigeria. Nine (9) treatments each were used in the experiments which included different combinations of urea, single superphosphate, poultry droppings, sheep manure and cow dung. The treatments were arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Data were obtained on plant height, number of leaves, bulb height, bulb weight; bulb width, bulb diameter, and bulb dry matter weight of onion and were analyzed using the one way ANOVA. Where significant, means were separated using the Duncan New Multiple Range Test. Result of the analysis revealed that plant height, number of leaves, bulb height, bulb width, bulb diameter, and dry matter weight were significantly (P ≤ 0.05) affected by s(5500 kg/ha) poultry dropping application singly and with its combination of 70.65 kg N/ha, plus 125 kg P/ha (inorganic fertilizer). Similarly, yield per plot and per hectare were significantly (P ≤ 0.05) affected by the application of 5,500 kg/ha and 70.65 N kg/ha plus 125P kg/ha plus 2750 kg/ha poultry dropping. Application of 70.65 N kg/ha plus 125 P kg/ha plus 2750 kg/ha poultry dropping, resulted in better plant growth, development and yield and therefore recommended. Combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizers should be adopted in growing red onion at Moda-Michika and similar soils.
