Effect of mudpress as organic fertilizer on selected soil properties and yield of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.)

This study aimed to evaluate the nutrient composition of an organic fertilizer derived from sugarcane sludge (mudpress), its impact on selected soil properties and efficacy in improving cowpea yield. The study was conducted at the College of Agriculture, Isabela State University, San Mariano campus, from February to April 2017. The organic fertilizer was a mixture of mudpress, poultry manure and carbonized rice hull in a 6:3:1 ratio. The efficacy of this fertilizer on cowpea was evaluated through treatments: 20-40-45 kg nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (NPK) ha-1 as per the recommended rate, 20 bags of organic fertilizer ha-1 and combinations of organic fertilizer with full and half rates of inorganic fertilizer, with the untreated plants that served as the control. The organic fertilizer contained substantial amounts of NPK, which significantly impacted soil pH, organic matter content and microbial count. The combination of organic fertilizer with full and half rates of inorganic fertilizer resulted in the highest cowpea yields, ranging from 5.80 to 5.86 t ha-1. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of organic fertilizer in improving soil quality and enhancing crop yield, highlighting the potential for agricultural waste to be transformed into productive resources. The findings promote efficient management and utilization of agricultural wastes, providing a sustainable solution to environmental concerns while enhancing agricultural productivity. The technology and data generated can support organic agriculture initiatives (RA 10068) and solid waste management (RA 9003), benefiting researchers, organic advocates and farmers in the Philippines.