Studies on the allelopatic effects of Chromolaena odorata L. on the performance of soybean (Glycine max L. merril)

Studies on the effects of fresh leaf biomass of Chromolaena odorata on the germination, growth performance and yield of Soybean (Glycine max L. Merril) was carried out at the experimental site of the Department of plant Science of Ekiti state University, Ado Ekiti in the 2010 and 2011 growing seasons. Fresh leaves of Chromolaena odorata collected from the University community were blended and weighed into 50g, 100g, 150g and 200g and applied to collected soils in horticultural pots. While the emergence percentage and speed of emergence were not affected by the fresh biomass, the growth factors as well as the yield of soya bean were considerably affected. Growth parameters were improved by Chromolaena odorata than the control where Chromolaena odorata was not applied. The highest yield of soybean was obtained in the 150g Chromolaena odorata applied pots but similar to those of 200g pots. The improvement in growth and yield of soybean by fresh leaf biomass of Chromolaena odorata incorporation into the soil without a negative effect on germination is an indication that the weed is a good source of organic fertilizer for soil improvement for soybean production in the study area.