Effects of animal manures on phenological characteristics of Ghazi-Khani melon

Abstract

In the agricultural conditions of Afghanistan, low soil organic matter is a major constraint limiting optimal plant growth, affecting irrigation, fertilization, and harvesting practices. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different animal manures (chicken, cow, and sheep) on the phenological indices of Ghazi Khani melon to determine the most effective type and application rate for enhancing growth stages. The experiment was conducted in 2024 at Samangan University using a randomized complete block design with seven treatments, including a control and different amounts of three types of animal manure, each with three replications. Data were analysed using ANOVA in SPSS, and mean comparisons were performed using Duncan’s test at a significance level of 0.05. The results indicated that sheep manure applied at 30 tons per hectare produced the best outcomes in most phenological traits, including germination, leafing, flowering, fruiting, number of leaves and fruits, and phenological duration. It reduced germination time by 3.66 days and accelerated flowering. Cow manure also positively influenced leaf growth and the flowering period, while chicken manure had weaker but still beneficial effects compared to the control. No significant differences were observed in leaf fall and maturity period among treatments. Overall, targeted use of animal manures, particularly sheep manure at 30 tons per hectare, can improve phenological development and soil fertility. These findings provide practical recommendations for farmers and decision-makers aiming to enhance melon production and support sustainable agriculture in the warm and semi-warm regions of Afghanistan.