Agbede, T.M., Oyewumi, A., Agbede, G.K. et al.Impacts of poultry manure and biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More amendments on the nutrients in sweet potato leaves and the minerals in the storage roots. Sci Rep 14, 16598 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-67486-9

A recent study explored the combined effects of poultry manure and biochar on the nutrient composition of sweet potato leaves and the mineral content of its storage roots. Conducted over two years in southwestern Nigeria, the research aimed to address soil fertility challenges and enhance crop quality through sustainable practices.

Researchers applied varying rates of poultry manure (0, 5.0, and 10.0 tons per hectare) and biochar (0, 10.0, 20.0, and 30.0 tons per hectare) to sweet potato crops. They discovered that both amendments significantly improved soil nutrient content, with the combination of the highest rates of poultry manure and biochar yielding the best results. The most effective treatment increased leaf nutrient concentrations dramatically: nitrogen by 88.2%, phosphorus by 416.7%, potassium by 123.8%, calcium by 927.3%, and magnesium by 333.3%. Additionally, storage roots saw increases in phosphorus by 152.5%, potassium by 77.4%, calcium by 205.5%, magnesium by 294.6%, iron by 268.4%, zinc by 228.6%, and sodium by 433.3%.

These findings highlight the synergistic effects of combining poultry manure and biochar, resulting in higher nutrient uptake and improved soil health. The optimal treatment not only enhanced the nutritional value of sweet potatoes but also proved to be economically profitable, with the highest gross margin and net return among all tested combinations.

This research underscores the potential of integrating poultry manure and biochar to boost crop yields and nutritional quality sustainably. It provides valuable insights for farmers in similar agroecological zones, advocating for the combined use of these amendments to address soil fertility issues and improve food security.