Evaluation of Dump Site Soil on the Growth Parameters and Yield of Okra (Abelmoschus Esculentus (L) Monech)

The use of urban waste as soil amendment is increasingly gaining attention in developing countries due to its potential to improve soil fertility and reduce waste accumulation. This study evaluated the effect of dumpsite soil manure on the growth and yield of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) in Owerri, Southeastern Nigeria. A field experiment was conducted during the 2020 cropping season using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with six treatments (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 t/ha of dumpsite manure), replicated three times. Data were collected on percentage emergence, plant height, stem girth, number of leaves, leaf area, leaf area index, fruit number, fruit weight, and fruit yield. Results revealed that dumpsite soil manure contained higher organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium compared to the topsoil, but also elevated levels of heavy metals such as Pb, Cd, and Zn. Application of manure significantly (P