Influence of Different N Sources on the Growth, Leaf Yield and Quality of Mulberry (Morus alba)

Abstract

The influence of inorganic N sources on growth, leaf yield and quality of mulberry (Morus alba) was studied under field conditions before (Experiment 1) and after (experiment 2) pruning. The treatments consisted of three mulberry varieties (Kanva-2, S-36 and Mysore local) and three N sources (urea, Sulphate of Ammonia and NPK) and a control. The experimental design used was a split plot design. Varieties formed the main plot and N sources the sub-plot factors. The N sources had significant influence on growth, leaf yield and quality of mulberry. Plant height, number of leaves per plant, number of branches, leaf yield (leaf fresh weight) and leaf quality (moisture and crude protein) were significantly increased by SoA in experiment 1. However, NPK significantly increased plant height, number of leaves per plant, stem diameter, leaf yield (leaf fresh weight) and leaf quality (leaf moisture, leaf crude protein, mineral content and leaf N) after pruning (experiment 2). Among the varieties, S-36 was superior with regards to leaf protein and leaf moisture in both experiments. Mysore local on the other hand was superior in terms of leaf mineral content and protein. The status of sericulture was determined by conducting a survey using questionnaire and group discussions. It was revealed that 5.9% of sericulture farmers had no formal education. Brong-Ahafo Region had the highest (88.2%) number of sericulture farmers. The low patronage and low cocoon production was due to lack of market, price discrimination, lack of market and lack of knowledge on the existence of cocoon market outside Ghana.