Evaluation of Mycorrhiza and Pigeon Pea Leaves Compost on the Growth, Yield and Nutrient Uptake of Maize in Degraded Ultisol

Soil nutrient and organic matter replenishment cannot be attained by the use of inorganic fertilizer alone hence, the advocation for the use of integrated fertility management method to improve soil fertility for continuous crop production. Two-season pot experiment was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State to assess pigeon pea leaves compost and mycorrhiza on the growth, nutrient uptake and yield of maize in degraded ultisol. The experimental design was a Completely Randomized Design with four treatments replicated three times and the treatments were: pigeon pea leaves compost + mycorrhiza, pigeon pea leaves compost, mycorrhiza and control. The soil samples collected and pigeon pea green manure were analysed for essential nutrients. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA at p = 0.05. The compost of pigeon pea leaves + mycorrhiza significantly (p < 0.05) increased the growth of maize compared to other treatments. Also, the application of pigeon pea leaves compost and mycorrhizal inoculum significantly (p < 0.05) increased the growth of maize compared to control. The nutrient uptake in maize was significantly (p < 0.05) higher with the application of pigeon pea leaves compost + mycorrhiza compared to other treatments. Pigeon pea leaves compost + mycorrhiza significantly (p< 0.05) increased the grain and dry matter yield of maize compared to other treatments. Also, pigeon pea leaves compost and mycorrhizal inoculation significantly increased maize yield compared to the control. The result from the study showed that pigeon pea leaves compost + mycorrhizal inoculation significantly increased the growth, nutrient uptake and yield of maize in degraded soil compared to other treatments. Also, pigeon pea leaves compost + mycorrhiza, pigeon pea leaves compost and mycorrhizal inoculation can sustain and improve the growth and yield of maize in degraded soil.