The use of human urine as an organic fertilizer in the production of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) in South Eastern Nigeria

Greenhouse and field experiments were conducted to evaluate the response of okra to different levels of human urine (0, 10,000, 15,000 and 20,000 L/ha) and 400 kg/ha NPK 15:15:15 inorganic fertilizer in five riverine communities of Cross River State, Nigeria. The soils of the communities are generally acid with low organic matter, total nitrogen, exchangeable cations, but were rated medium in available P. The pH of the urine was alkaline with moderate amount of nutrients. There was a significant (P < 0.05) increase in nutrient uptake with application of either urine or inorganic fertilizer compared with the control. Application level of 20,000 L urine/ha significantly increased the growth and yield attributes of okra plants relative to NPK fertilizer, while 15,000 L urine/ha had a similar effect on okra plant as the inorganic fertilizer. The inert potentials of human urine as a good source of organic fertilizer are discussed.

► Soils of the communities are acidic and low in nutrients.
► Human urine is alkaline with moderate amount of plant nutrients.
► Application of urine or inorganic fertilizer increased nutrient uptake.
► Application of 15,000 L urine/ha was as effective as NPK fertilizer.
► 20,000 L urine/ha enhanced okra growth and yield more than NPK fertilizer.