Application of organic fertilisation such as poultry manure enhanced carbohydrate, fat and vitamin C contents of Huckleberry (Solanum scabrum) more than mineral fertilisation in Buea-Cameroon

Abstract

Huckleberry (Solanum scabrum), is a vital indigenous leafy vegetable in sub-Saharan Africa(SSA) and Cameroon, serving as a rich source of vitamins, proteins, and minerals. This study evaluated the nutritional composition, growth, and yield parameters of huckleberry produced using organic and inorganic fertilizers in Buea. A randomized complete block experiment with four blocks compared four fertilisation regimes: pig manure, poultry manure, control, and urea. 6 weeks after planting (WAP), growth parameters; plant height, leaf number and leaf area were measured alongside cumulative yield. Harvested samples were analysed to determine total protein, carbohydrate, fat, and vitamin C contents. Data were subjected to analyse using a two-way analysis of variance. Fertilizer application significantly (P<0.05) enhanced plant performance compared to the unfertilized control. At 8 WAP, urea had the most vigorous vegetative growth, having the highest mean plant height (25.92 cm), maximum leaf count (29.38), and total yield (20.72 tons/ha). Nutritionally, urea produced the highest total protein content (290.30 mg/100 g), but reduced vitamin C level (24.20 mg/100 g) below the baseline of the control (27.53 mg/100 g). Poultry manure had the highest content of carbohydrates (6.52%), fats (7.8%), and vitamin C (42.57 mg/100 g). The study demonstrates a clear trade-off between crop yield and specific nutritional attributes based on nutrient sources. While urea enhanced plant growth and yield, organic amendments like poultry manure improved the micronutrients like carbohydrate and fat composition of huckleberries. Future work should focus on integrated application of poultry and pig manure with urea to see their effects of huckleberry performance, nutrient contents and soil health. Keywords: fertilizer, huckleberry, urea, poultry manure and pig manure