Investigation of the Effects of Poultry and Cow Manure on the Performance of Sabzak Melon

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of poultry and cow manure on the performance of melons under the environmental conditions of Samangan and aims to determine the appropriate amount of fertilizer for improving poor soils and enhancing crop yields. The experiment was conducted in 1403 (2024) at the Samangan Institute of Higher Education using a randomized complete block design with seven treatments and three replications. The treatments included poultry manure at three levels (0, 5, and 15 tons per hectare) and cow manure at three levels (0, 30, and 60 tons per hectare). Results showed that cow manure, particularly at a rate of 60 tons per hectare, had the greatest effect on fruit characteristics and plant growth, leading to increases in weight, length, diameter, and number of fruits. Additionally, cow manure at 30 tons per hectare also demonstrated positive effects. Poultry manure at 15 tons per hectare positively influenced the weight, length, diameter, and number of fruits, but its impact was less than that of cow manure. In terms of plant growth, poultry manure at 15 tons per hectare significantly affected the number of leaves, while the lowest results were observed under no-fertilizer (control) conditions. Therefore, it is recommended to use cow and poultry manures appropriately to improve the quality and quantity of agricultural products, with the amount and type of fertilizers adjusted based on production goals and crop characteristics.