CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Moringa oleifera, commonly known as Moringa, is a highly valued crop in

tropical and subtropical regions due to its exceptional nutritional, medicinal, and

economic benefits. Native to the Indian subcontinent, Moringa has been

cultivated for centuries for its leaves, pods, and seeds, which are rich in proteins,

vitamins, and minerals. The tree's rapid growth rate, adaptability to Sdiverse

environments, and high yield make it an attractive crop for small-scale farmers,

agroforestry initiatives, and sustainable agriculture projects (Zhao et al., 2019).

Moringa oleifera is an indigenous to northwest India (Ramachandran et al., 1980)

but, at present it is widely distributed in the tropics throughout the pacific region

(Aregheore 2002), as well as Central America and the Caribbean (Ramachandran

et al., 1980). It is a typical multipurpose tree significant economic importance

because of its several industrial and medicinal application and various products to

be used as ford and feed which can be derived from its leaves and fruits

(Ramachandran et al., 1980).

Leaves of moringa represent an important source of nutrients for rural population

(Gupta et al., 189; Lokett et al., 2000)

Moringa oleifera L. is a valuable tree enriched with health benefitting nutrients

es- sential to human well-being. Its spread and establishment will, therefore, be

beneficial to especially the many poverty stricken and im- poverished nations in

1
the developing world. Almost every part of ‘moringa’ tree has value as food.

Young fruits, flowers and leaves (containing 5-10% protein) are consumed as

vegetable (Ahmed et al., 2010). Its leaves are a good source of vitamins A, B, and

C, they are also a source of minerals, such as calcium and iron, and the short

sulphur bearing amino acids methionine and cysteine (arguably the most critical

dietary ingredients for people lacking regular access to meat, milk, cheese, eggs,

or fish (National Research Council 2006). The flowers can be eaten or used to

make a tea, while the young, green pods are boiled and eaten like green beans

(Doruska and Burkhart, 2022) and contain a high vitamin C content with a

notable content of iron and copper (Auria et al., 2023). Seeds from mature pods

are browned in a skillet, mashed, and placed in boiling water; edible oil will

float on the surface. The oil, which constitute about 38-42% of the seed, is clear,

sweet, and odour- less, and contains approximately 13% saturated fatty acids and

82% unsaturated fatty acids, of which there is 9.3% palmitic, 7.4% stearic, 8.6%

behenic, and 65.7% oleic acids (Doruska and Burkhart, 2022). The pungent fleshy

root is pulverised into a flaky condiment with a horseradish taste. It is eaten as a

vegetable in East Africa (Giuberti et al., 2021). This has given ‘moringa’ the

widely used name “horseradish tree”. The thick, soft roots are also pickled,

through peeling, drying, grounding, and steeping in vinegar and are as well

roasted and eaten (Saucedo et al., 2018). Manipulation of soil media to provide

the best medium for the growth and development of crop plants is a common

2
agricultural practice. Successful growth and development will require the

provision of appropriate media, temperature, moisture, light, and air. Generally,

soil serves as the primary medium of growing plants, but researchers nowadays

commonly grow plants in greenhouses on growing media made up of both

natural (soil) and artificial (soilless) ingredients mixed in various proportions

with the aim of mimicking the growing condition that a natural soil is known to

provide to the growing plant.

The plant growth and development can be regulated or controlled by use of plant

growth regulators (or plant hormones). The level of concentration of the applied

hormone is ma- nipulated during the cultivation process to achieve desired result.

Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) is a synthetic auxin employed to induce root

formation (adventitious) on stem cut- tings propagated from woody plants.

Rooting hormone is in most instances required when dealing with more mature

wood, and a root- ing hormone, such as IBA at the rate of 2000- 6000 ppm is

commonly utilised (Kashyap et al., 2020). Generally, higher concentrations may

be required when dealing with cultivars that are difficult to root. Plant growth

regulators are therefore expected to play a central role in enhancing their rooting

ability (Saucedo et al., 2018).

3
Biological Garden

A biological garden, also known as a botanical garden or bio garden, is a

dedicated space for growing and displaying a wide variety of plants, often with a

focus on conservation, education, and research. These gardens typically feature:

1. Diverse plant collections, including rare and endangered species

2. Labeling and signage to provide information about each plant species

3. Themed gardens, such as herb gardens, rose gardens, or sensory gardens

4. Natural habitats, like ponds, forests, or meadows

5. Educational programs, workshops, and guided tours

6. Conservation efforts, like seed banks and plant breeding programs

Biological gardens serve as:

- Centers for plant research and conservation

- Educational resources for students and the general public

- Places for recreation and relaxation

- Preserves for natural habitats and ecosystems

They play a vital role in promoting biodiversity, supporting ecosystem services,

and inspiring appreciation for the natural world.

Organic Manure

Organic manure, also known as natural or biological manure, refers to materials

derived from living organisms or their waste products, used to fertilize and

improve soil health. Examples of organic manure include:

4
1. Animal waste (cow dung, chicken manure, etc.)

2. Compost (decomposed plant material)

3. Green manure (legumes, grasses, etc., plowed into the soil)

4. Worm castings (vermicompost)

5. Plant residues (crop waste, straw, etc.)

6. Fish emulsion

7. Bone meal

8. Blood meal

Organic manure provides essential nutrients, improves soil structure, and supports

beneficial microorganisms, leading to:

1. Enhanced soil fertility and productivity

2. Increased crop yields and quality

3. Improved soil water-holding capacity

4. Reduced soil erosion

5. Support for beneficial insects and microorganisms

6. Mitigation of climate change through carbon sequestration

Using organic manure promotes sustainable agriculture, reduces reliance on

synthetic fertilizers, and creates a healthier environment.

5
Chicken droppings

Chicken droppings, also known as chicken manure, are the waste products of

chickens. They are a natural, nutrient-rich substance that can be used as:

1. Organic fertilizer: High in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, making it an

excellent natural fertilizer for plants.

2. Soil amendment: Improves soil structure, increases water-holding capacity, and

supports beneficial microorganisms.

3. Compost activator: Adds nutrients and microorganisms to compost piles,

speeding up the decomposition process.

Chicken droppings contain:

- Nitrogen (2-3%)

- Phosphorus (1-2%)

- Potassium (1-2%)

- Organic matter (70-80%)

- Microorganisms (beneficial bacteria, fungi, etc.)

However, it's essential to handle chicken droppings safely, as they can:

- Contain pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli

- Attract pests and create odors if not managed properly

Proper treatment, such as composting or drying, can minimize risks and create a

valuable resource for gardening and agriculture.

6
Cow dungs

Cow dung, also known as cow manure, is the waste product of cows. It is a

natural, nutrient-rich substance that has been used for centuries as:

1. Organic fertilizer: Rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, making it an

excellent natural fertilizer for plants.

2. Soil amendment: Improves soil structure, increases water-holding capacity, and

supports beneficial microorganisms.

3. Fuel: Dried cow dung is used as a fuel source in many parts of the world.

4. Biogas production: Cow dung can be anaerobically digested to produce biogas

(a mixture of methane and carbon dioxide).

5. Compost activator: Adds nutrients and microorganisms to compost piles,

speeding up the decomposition process.

Cow dung contains:

- Nitrogen (0.5-1.5%)

- Phosphorus (0.2-0.5%)

- Potassium (0.5-1.5%)

- Organic matter (70-80%)

- Microorganisms (beneficial bacteria, fungi, etc.)

Cow dung has been used in traditional medicine, as a natural pest repellent, and

even as a building material (e.g., in cob construction).

7
Proper handling and treatment, such as composting or drying, can minimize

potential health risks associated with cow dung, like pathogens and odors.

Compost manure

Compost manure, also known as composted manure, is a type of organic fertilizer

made from decomposed animal waste (manure) that has been broken down into a

stable, humus-rich material. This process involves:

1. Collecting animal manure (e.g., cow, chicken, or pig)

2. Mixing with carbon-rich materials (e.g., straw, leaves)

3. Aerating and turning the mixture regularly

4. Allowing it to decompose for several months

Compost manure benefits:

1. Rich in nutrients (NPK): Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium

2. Improved soil structure and fertility

3. Supports beneficial microorganisms

4. Increases water-holding capacity

5. Reduces soil erosion

6. Mitigates climate change through carbon sequestration

7. Pathogen-free and odorless

Characteristics:

1. Dark, crumbly texture

2. Earthy aroma

8
 3. pH balanced (neutral)

4. Weed seed-free

Compost manure is an excellent natural fertilizer for:

1. Gardens

2. Farms

3. Landscaping

4. Houseplants

Using compost manure promotes sustainable agriculture, reduces waste, and

creates a healthier environment.

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The background of the study is biological garden Federal Polytechnic Kaura

Namoda, Zamfara State which is characterized by a Sudan savanna vegetation.

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The growth rate of Moringa oleifera, a highly valued crop for its nutritional and

medicinal properties, remains poorly understood, particularly in response to

different environmental conditions (Giuberti et al., 2021). This knowledge gap

limits the development of sustainable agriculture practices, optimal cultivation

techniques, and high-yielding varieties, ultimately affecting the livelihoods of

farmers and the nutritional security of communities. This study seeks to address

this problem by determining the growth rate of Moringa under various conditions.

9
1.3 JUSTIFICATION OF THE STUDY

Show the importance of economic trees which are lacking in the area

1.4 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

Aim

To determine the growth rate of Moringa oleifera under different environmental

conditions in botanical garden at the Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda

Objectives

1. Measure and analyze the growth rate of Moringa in terms of height, leaf

production and number of branches

2. Investigate the effects of different organic manure on the growth rate of

Moringa oliefera

1.5 SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

Scope
The study was designed to determine the growth rate of Moringa oleifera using
different organic manure
Limitations

 The study will be conducted in a limited geographic area, (biological garden) and

the results may not be generalizable to other regions.

 The study will only consider a limited number of environmental factors, and other

factors may influence Moringa's growth rate.

 The study will only measure growth rate over a short period of time, and long-

term growth patterns may differ.

10
 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.0 INTRODUCTION

Moringa oleifera, a highly valued crop for its nutritional and medicinal properties,

has gained significant attention in recent years. Understanding its growth rate is

crucial for optimizing cultivation practices, predicting yields, and selecting

suitable varieties. This literature review aims to synthesize existing research on

the growth rate of Moringa, exploring factors influencing its growth and

identifying knowledge gaps (Akinyele, 2010).

2.1.1 REVIEW OF EXISTING STUDIES ON MORINGA'S GROWTH RATE

2.1.1 Origin of Moringa

Moringa oleifera is a plant native to India and most of the Asian countries, but it

is also predominantly grown in Ethiopia, Florida, the Philippines, South Africa,

and Latin America. Nomenclature of this plant is unique in various parts of the

world; it is called “shiferaw” in Ethiopia while it is known as “drumstick” or in

India. As per a research study on the plant species, there are about 33 species

of Moringaceae, among which Moringa oleifera is one of the most common

species of the family. Several research studies have concluded the multipurpose

role of this plant with nutritional and medicinal benefits. Moringa oleifera is a

rapidly growing tree with drought-resistant properties. It is mostly cultivated for

11
its young seed pods and leaves, which are consumed as a vegetable, and also as a

traditional medicine. Moringa is highly useful for water purification mechanisms

with several research findings and outcomes. It is also beneficial as fuel wood,

livestock fodder, dye, alley cropping, a natural pesticide, soil fertilizer, and green

manure (Dzuvor et al., 2022).

The plant "Moringa oleifera" contains numerous components that aid for its

nutritional value as a medicinal plant fostering environmental factors of

conservation and consumption by a wide range of human population. Therefore,

this plant is described as a “miracle tree” by the research fraternity. Moringa has

adaptive properties applicable to nutritional, medical, and industrial applications.

Research has shown that all parts of Moringa, that is, the flowers, seeds, leaves,

fruits, and immature pods, are efficient as a traditional food due to its prime

nutritional value. Various countries such as India, Ethiopia, Nigeria, East Africa,

and Ghana utilize the dried and fresh leaves of Moringa as an important part of

their meal. Being a perennial tree, Moringa has well-developed roots, leaves, and

stems that can be used for multipurpose roles. It has also been proved to be an

effective supplement for overcoming malnutrition among infants due to the

presence of ample amounts of vitamin A, B, C, and E in the leaves (Akinyele,

2010).

Native Range: Moringa is believed to have originated in the Himalayan foothills

of India, specifically in the states of Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.

12
 Ancient Cultivation: Moringa has been cultivated for over 4,000 years, with

evidence of its use dating back to ancient civilizations in Egypt, Greece, and

Rome.

Traditional Uses: In traditional Indian medicine (Ayurveda), Moringa was used

to treat various ailments, including fever, inflammation, and digestive issues.

Spread to Africa: Moringa was introduced to Africa by Portuguese explorers in

the 16th century and has since become an important crop in many African

countries.

Global Cultivation: Today, Moringa is cultivated in many tropical and

subtropical regions, including Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Pacific Islands

(Premi and Sharma, 2017).

2.2 OVERVIEW OF MORINGA'S GROWTH HABITS AND

CHARACTERISTICS

2.2.1 Properties of Moringa oleifera

Moringa oleifera is a plant with several nutrients rich in vitamins, proteins,

minerals, and fibers that result in the explicit properties of this miracle plant.

Research has reported that Moringa leaves are abundant in protein content in

comparison to other leaves consumed as food. They are rich in in zeatin,

quercetin, kaempferol, and various other phytochemicals, proving the nutritional

source of the plant. The leaves are also high in essential amino acids such as

methionine, cysteine, tryptophan, and lysine. In some parts of India, fresh leaves

13
are used to make cow and buffalo ghee, as these leaves possess rich antioxidants

that enhance the shelf life of ghee. Research studies have also revealed the diverse

biological activity of Moringa leaves such as antidiabetic, hypersensitive agent,

hypo-cholestrolemic, regulating hormonal levels, nutrition, metabolism, central

nervous system, and digestive system. Hence, we observe that around the globe,

all parts of this miracle plant have been efficiently used against various illnesses

(Chen et al., 2017).

The antimicrobial activity of Moringa oleifera has resulted in its unique

applications in health and medicine. Extracts of the plant have been used against

fungal and bacterial complaints for the skin while consuming them provides a

good source of nutrition due to the rich fiber and protein levels. In a study, the

antibacterial activity of several solvents of Moringa was analyzed against

bacterial species such as Bacillus subtilis, E. coli, Klebsiella pnemoniae, and S.

aureus that cause enteric infections in humans. The Moringa seeds serve as a

significant source for antibiotic and antiinflammatory properties for arthritis

treatment. A similar effect is observed for extracted oil from the seeds used

against rheumatism, gout, cramps, and boils for humans. Table 1 shows the

nutritional value of M. Oleifera leaves per 1 cup. Thus, the varying properties

of Moringa oleifera have been proved for medicinal benefits as well (Saini et al.,

2014).

14
Table 1. Nutritional value of Moringa oleifera
Nutrients Quantity

19% of the recommended daily

Vitamin B6
allowance (RDA)

Vitamin C 12% of the RDA

Iron 11% of the RDA

Riboflavin (B2) 11% of the RDA

Vitamin A (from beta-

9% of the RDA
carotene)

Magnesium 8% of the RDA

Protein 2g
Source: (Baul et al., 2014)

Table 2: Classification of Moringa

Kingdom: Plantae
Sub kingdom: Tracheobionta
Super division: Spermatophyta
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Sub class: Dilleniidae
Order: Capparales
Family: Moringaceae
Genus: MoringaAdans
Species: M. oleifera, M. stenopetala, M. ovalifoliaetc
Source: (Baul et al., 2014)

15
2.2.2 Medicinal value and health benefits

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the transition toward

traditional medicine has been a critical shift, with more than 75% of the world’s

population using the benefits of phytochemical products for healthcare. The

medicinal content of plants depends on the chemical composition of the plant that

results in physiological responses in the human body. A few of the significant

bioactive substances include alkaloids, tannins, phenolics, phytoquinines, and

flavonoids. Research improvements have taken place concerning various

pharmacological data with a practical therapeutic approach of novel drugs from

higher plant varieties. The bark of the Moringa plant is effective against

toothaches when boiled with potash and consumed. The seeds have high

anticoagulant properties, playing a significant role against heart attacks and

strokes (Akinyele, 2010).

Indians and Africans have used Moringa in herbal medicine for ages. This plant is

referred to as a panacea and is used to treat more than 300 specific human

ailments. Several parts of the Moringa have antitumor, antiulcer,

antiinflammatory, antibacterial, antihypersensitive, antioxidant, cholesterol-

reducing, and antifungal activities. We will discuss the individual role of different

parts of the Moringa oleifera for healthcare benefits (Alam, 2014).

16
2.2.3 Moringa oleifera leaves

The leaves are commonly used for asthma, flu, heartburn, malaria, diarrhea,

pneumonia, scurvy, headaches, skin diseases, eye and ear infections, bronchitis,

and hyperglycemia. The leaves are also beneficial in reducing blood pressure and

cholesterol and also have anticancerous, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and

neuroprotectant properties for humans (Alam, 2014).

2.2.4 Moringa oleifera seeds

As discussed in the previous sections, Moringa seed powders are effective for

water purification and as a cleansing mechanism. Moringa seeds can be used in

treatments against various diseases, including Crohn’s disease, the herpes simplex

virus, epilepsy, and gout (Mulat, 2020).

17
2.2.5 Moringa oleifera root

The root bark of Moringa has shown significant antiulcer and antiinflammatory

properties as well as a role as a cardiac stimulant agent (Saini et al., 2016)

2.3 FACTORS AFFECTING MORINGA'S GROWTH RATE (CLIMATE,

SOIL, WATER, NUTRIENTS)

Climate:

1. Temperature: Optimal temperature for Moringa growth is between 20-30°C

(68-86°F). Temperatures above 35°C (95°F) can lead to reduced growth.

2. Rainfall: Moringa requires adequate rainfall, but excessive rainfall can lead to

waterlogged soil and reduced growth.

3. Sunlight: Moringa requires full sun to partial shade. Insufficient sunlight can

lead to reduced growth (Nouman et al., 2016).

Soil:

1. Soil Type: Moringa grows well in sandy loam, loam, and clay loam soils.

Avoid heavy clay or sandy soils.

2. pH: Optimal pH range is 6.0-7.0. Avoid soils with pH below 5.5 or above 8.0.

3. Nutrient Availability: Moringa requires adequate nutrients, especially

nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (Zhao et al., 2019).

Water:

1. Watering Frequency: Moringa requires consistent moisture, especially

during the first year. Water every 2-3 days during hot weather.

18
2. Water Quality: Avoid using saline or alkaline water, which can affect

Moringa's growth (Dzuvor et al., 2022).

Nutrients:

1. Nitrogen (N): Essential for leaf growth and development.

2. Phosphorus (P): Crucial for root development, flower, and fruit formation.

3. Potassium (K): Important for overall plant health and resistance to disease.

3. Micronutrients: Moringa also requires micronutrients like iron, zinc, and

boron (Dzuvor et al., 2022).

Additional Factors:

1. Pruning: Regular pruning promotes healthy growth and encourages

branching.

2. Pest and Disease Management: Regular monitoring and management of

pests and diseases can prevent reduced growth.

3. Variety Selection: Choosing suitable Moringa varieties for specific climates

and soils can impact growth rates (Baul et al., 2020).

19
 CHAPTER THREE

MATERIAL AND METHOD

3.1 STUDY AREA

The study was conducted at botanical garden Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda,

Zamfara state, School of science and Technology in the Science Laboratory

Technology Botanical Garden in a semi arid region with temperature of 2-24 oC

and humidity of 40-50% of rainfall and the soil condition is well drained fertile

soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0

The Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda, located in Zamfara State, Nigeria, was

established in 1983 as a federal government institution to provide technical

education and training. The Biological Garden, situated within the polytechnic

campus

Initially, the garden focused on cultivating ornamental plants and providing a

serene environment for recreation. Over the years, its purpose expanded to

include:

1. Conservation of indigenous plant species

2. Research and experimentation in botany, ecology, and environmental science

3. Practical training for students in agriculture, horticulture, and biology

4. Community outreach and extension services

20
 Size of the biological garden

The size of the biological: 0.1-1 acre (400-4,000 square meters)

3.2 MATERIALS

The Moringa seeds used in this study were sourced from Kaura Namoda market,

Zamfara State.The following materials were used in the course of conducting the

experiment

 Watering cans

 Measuring instruments (ruler, tape)

 Log book

3.3 METHODS

After sourcing moringa seeds which were bought from market, three different

types of organic manure comprising of; chicken droppings, cow dungs and

21
 compost manure were obtained from poultry farm, animal keeping house and

house hold waste respectively. Ratio of three is to one (3:1) for river sand and

organic manure were used and put in four different polythene bags which were

labeled A,B,C and D. A Represent chicken droppings, B represent cow dungs, C

represent compost manure where D represent control.

We planted the seeds 1/4 inch (6mm) depth and 1-2 inches (2.5 - 5mm) apart in

the prepared soil. We covered the seed with a thin layer of soil

The method used to determines the growth of moringa is as follows:

1. Seed germination: Seeds were sown in seed trays and kept in a controlled

environment.

2. Seedling transplanting: Seedlings were transplanted into pots with different soil

types.

3. Temperature treatment: Pots were placed in temperature control chambers.

4. Watering regime: Plants were watered according to the assigned regime.

5. Data collection: Measurements were taken weekly for 6 weeks.

3.4 PARAMETERS MEASURED

- Height (cm)

- Leaf Number (s)

- Number of branch (s)

22
23
 CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 RESULT AND DISCUSSIONS

4.1 The growth rate of Moringa oleifera determined on three different types of

organic manure was obtained as presented on figures below

4.2 HEIGHT/ LENGTH OF THE STEM

Among the three organic manure, it is found that the rate of height of the moringa

increase rapidly on chicken dropping, while the cow dungs and the compost

manure show little difference. The cow dungs increase the height than the

compost manure. From the table the control group shows a major difference from

the other indicating that the river sand does not contain nutrient which increase

the soil fertility.

60

50

40
Chicken droppings
30 Cow dung
Compost manure
Control
20

10

0
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 week 4 Week 5 Week6

Figure: 1 Height / Length of Moringa oleifera stem

24
4.3 NUMBER OF LEAVES

It is observed that the organic manure shows the same improvement in the

number of leaves in week one but change rapidly in week two. Chicken dropping

grows number of leaves rapidly than the rest, this shows that chicken droppings

increase the number of leaves in moringa plant than organic manure. This result

corresponded to the earlier finding (Imoro et al., 2012)

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

0
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 week 4 Week 5 Week 6

Chicken droppings Cow dungs Compost manure Control

Figure 2: Number of leaves

4.4 NUMBER OF BRANCHES

It was observed that the number of branches of the moringa plant from week one

to week three are the same due to the fact that organic manure are different, but

the number of branches in the control group is different.

25
In week four, chicken dropping show more number of branches than the other,

this shows that chicken dropping also show more improvement in the number of

branches than the other according to Law-Ogbomo et al., (2013)

12

10

8
Chicken droppings
6 Cow dungs
Compost manure
Control
4

0
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6

Figure 3 : Number of Branches

26
 CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.0 SUMMARY

This study investigated the growth rate of moringa (Moringa oleifera) under

different environmental conditions, including temperature, soil type, and watering

regime. The results showed that moringa grows optimally at temperatures between

25-30°C, in well-draining soil, and with moderate watering. The study found that

moringa exhibits rapid growth, with an average increase in height of 10 cm per

week.

5.1 CONCLUSION

The study provides valuable insights into the growth dynamics of Moringa,

informing optimal cultivation practices for improved productivity and

sustainability. The findings have implications for agricultural extension services,

farmers, and researchers seeking to harness the potential of Moringa for food

security and sustainable development.

The study demonstrates that moringa is a fast-growing crop that can thrive in a

variety of environmental conditions. Understanding the optimal growth conditions

for moringa can inform cultivation practices, improve productivity, and enhance

its potential as a sustainable crop for food security and income generation.

27
5.2 RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Optimize temperature conditions: Moringa cultivation should be done in areas

with temperatures between 25-30°C for optimal growth.

2. Select suitable soil types: Well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0 is ideal for

moringa cultivation.

3. Implement efficient watering systems: Moderate watering regimes should be

adopted to optimize growth and reduce water waste.

4. Provide support for rapid growth: Regular pruning and training of moringa plants

can help manage rapid growth and promote optimal yields.

5. Promote moringa cultivation: Encourage farmers and communities to adopt

moringa cultivation as a sustainable and profitable crop.

6. Further research: Investigate the impact of other environmental factors, such as

light intensity and CO2 levels, on moringa growth and productivity.

28
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