Assessment on Potential of Cow Dung Manure in <i>Zea mays</i> Production at Kiwere Village in Iringa Rural District, Tanzania

Abstract

An assessment on potentiality of Cow dung manure in Zea mays production at Kiwere village in Iringa Rural District (7&#176; 37'17.3"S, 35&#176; 37'48.1"E) was conducted from December 2019 to June 2020. The idea of this assessment was influenced by soil fertility depletion and the fall of Maize production in Iringa region from 1990’s. A total of 10 farms, 5 farms for Cow dung manured and 5 for non-manured in which Maize growth was monitored for 6 months. Various parameters as height, width and weight of both Maize plants and Maize fruits were recorded. Soil qualities both chemical and physical characteristics were analysed and recorded but also weather (Temperature, humidity) together with soil pH were recorded throughout the assessment period. The p-value of <0.0001 (1.03702E&#45; 07) and <0.0001 (2.45684E&#45; 05) for height and width and the highest mineral chemical values in the Cow manured 10 plots indicated that Cow manure not only increase Maize production significantly but also supports the production of soil microbial and hence renewals the soil minerals and soil fertility as well. This is why the soil physical values in the Cow dung manured plots Organic matter, porosity, soil aeration and others were found to be higher and the soil comprised of Sandy Clay Loam. Farmers are strongly advised to use this multipurp ose and potential manure in their unfertile soil. Cow manures are easily available in their environment and cheaper. &#45;