Abstract:

The persistent decline in soil fertility due to continuous cultivation, erosion, and nutrient depletion poses a major threat to food security and sustainable crop production in Nigeria. While poultry manure remains a common organic soil amendment often used by farmers to enhance soil fertility, its limited availability and rising costs has brought about the need for alternative, readily available organic resources. This study focused on assessing the soil improvement potential of the medicinal plant, Monodora myristica (African nutmeg). Leaves of the plant were collected, added to soil samples, and over a period of ten weeks was observed and compared with a known organic amendment (poultry dung) and an untreated soil to ascertain its effectiveness in improving soil fertility as well as its impact on the growth and yield of a common crop in Nigeria (Abelmoschus esculentus). Soil samples were collected before and after amendment application to analyze changes in pH, organic matter, and key macronutrients. Okra growth parameters such as plant height, number of leaves etc were monitored over a period of ten weeks, with the final yield results under each treatment taken. The results showed that Monodora myristica leaves significantly enhanced soil fertility by increasing organic matter content, improving soil structure, and contributing essential nutrients such as potassium, calcium, and nutrients to the soil. Results from the findings of this study proves Monodora myristica leaves to be effective, plant-based soil amendments capable of improving soil fertility, boosting crop performance and nutrients, and advancing sustainable agricultural practices in Nigeria and the world at large.