Comparative Analysis of Growth and Yield Response of Cucumis sativus to Leguminous Prunings (Gliricidia sepium and Leucaena leucocephala) and Poultry Manure Amendments

Abstract Declining soil fertility and heavy dependence on inorganic fertilizers continue to limit cucumber ( Cucumis sativus L.) productivity in smallholder tropical systems, increasing interest in organic amendments such as poultry manure and leguminous prunings as sustainable alternatives. This study compared the effects of Gliricidia sepium and Leucaena leucocephala prunings, poultry manure, and their combinations on cucumber growth and yield under field conditions in Mampong, Ashanti Region, Ghana. Using a Randomized Complete Block Design with four replications, seven treatments; sole Gliricidia , sole Leucaena , sole poultry manure, three paired combinations, and an unamended control—were evaluated for vine length, leaf number, chlorophyll content, and yield traits (fruit length, girth, and weight), with data analysed by ANOVA and LSD separation at p ≤ 0.05. Chlorophyll content and leaf number did not differ significantly among treatments, but plant height and all yield indicators were significantly affected. Poultry manure consistently produced the tallest plants and heaviest fruits (177.54 g), while Leucaena combined with poultry manure gave the greatest fruit length (16.45 cm); sole Gliricidia performed poorest across all yield traits. These findings indicate that poultry manure, alone or combined with Leucaena prunings, is the most effective organic amendment for enhancing cucumber growth and yield, whereas sole Gliricidia application offers limited agronomic benefit.