Evaluation of Azadirachta indica Seed Extracts as Silvicultural Amendments for Enhancing Growth and Productivity of Moringa oleifera

Abstract

The study evaluated the potential of Azadirachta indica (neem) seed extract as a natural amendment for improving the early growth and biomass production of Moringa oleifera. A randomized complete block design was used with four replications and four treatment conditions: untreated control, neem seed extract, synthetic fertilizer (NPK 20:20:20), and a combination of neem seed extract and synthetic fertilizer. Plant height and leaf number were assessed at 12, 32, and 52 days after planting, while root length, fresh weight, and dry weight were assessed at 52 days. The combined treatment produced the highest values for plant height (70.2 cm), leaf number (28.2), root length (40.5 cm), fresh weight (28.5 g), and dry weight (9.2 g). Synthetic fertilizer alone produced intermediate values (62.5 cm, 25.5 leaves, 35.2 cm, 24.2 g, and 7.8 g, respectively), while neem seed extract alone produced 55.8 cm, 22.8 leaves, 30.2 cm, 20.5 g, and 6.2 g. The untreated control recorded the lowest values (45.2 cm, 18.5 leaves, 25.5 cm, 15.2 g, and 4.5 g). The findings indicate that neem seed extract can contribute to improved M. oleifera seedling performance and may complement mineral fertilization. However, the treatment-rate descriptions in the source study are internally inconsistent and should be verified before submission to a journal.