Eurasian Journal of Soil Science
In Press, Corrected Proof
DOI: 10.18393/ejss.2027.16.1.154.169
(This number will become active after the manuscript has been selected for inclusion in an issue)
Stable URL: https://ejss.fesss.org/manuscript.php?id=4694
Copyright © 2026 The authors and Federation of Eurasian Soil Science Societies
Goat manure integration affects sweet corn growth, soil fertility, and farm-level nutrient supply in sandy soils of southern Thailand
Abstract
Narathiwat Province ranks third in Thailand for the number of goat farmers. Improper manure management can cause livestock disease and odor pollution, whereas appropriately managed manure is a potential nutrient source for the province’s nutrient-poor sandy soils. This study combined a field experiment on a sandy Ban Thon soil, arranged as a randomized complete block design with five treatments and five blocks (control; goat manure at 3.5 t rai⁻¹ [21.9 t ha⁻¹]; chemical fertilizer based on soil analysis plus 2.0 t rai⁻¹ goat manure; goat manure at 4.0 t rai⁻¹; and chemical fertilizer alone) with a purposive survey of 90 goat-integrated farms assessing manure supply, use, and gross fertilizer replacement value. After 75 days, chemical fertilizer plus manure produced the highest mean sweet corn fresh shoot biomass (mean ± standard deviation, 612.6 ± 55.4 compared with 150.5 ± 18.8 g plant⁻¹ in the control), significantly exceeding manure at 3.5 t rai⁻¹ (425.9) and chemical fertilizer alone (320.6 g plant⁻¹) but not differing significantly from manure at the farmer-practice rate of 4.0 t rai⁻¹ (535.5). Because the combined treatment received the full mineral fertilizer rate plus manure, this result reflects a greater total nutrient input and does not demonstrate synergy or fertilizer substitution. Post-harvest soil pH, available phosphorus, and exchangeable potassium were higher in manure-containing treatments than in the control and chemical fertilizer alone (exchangeable potassium 58.5-82.4 compared with 5.2-18.5 mg kg⁻¹). The surveyed farms produced an estimated 75,686 kg air-dry manure year⁻¹, a potential coverage of about 4.5% (2-11% across scenarios) of the estimated manure demand of their cropland, with a first-year gross fertilizer replacement value of about 107,500 Baht year⁻¹. Goat manure therefore appears best used as a supplement to, rather than a replacement for, mineral fertilizer; multi-season trials are needed to confirm yield and long-term soil effects.
Keywords
Circular agriculture, goat manure, sandy soil, smallholder farmers, soil fertility.
References
<p>Abid, M., Batool, T., Siddique, G., Ali, S., Binyamin, R., Shahid, M.J., Rizwan, M., Alsahli, A.A., Alyemeni, M.N., 2020. Integrated nutrient management enhances soil quality and crop productivity in maize-based cropping system. <em>Sustainability</em> 12(23): 10214. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/su122310214">https://doi.org/10.3390/su122310214</a></p>
<p>Ahmad, A., Khan, A., Ullah, F., Hassan, M.A., Iqbal, J., Jun, W., He, S., Zhaorong, D., 2025. Integration of organic-inorganic nitrogen fertilization on nitrogen conversion in soil. <em>Frontiers in Plant Science</em> 16: 1688878. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2025.1688878">https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2025.1688878</a></p>
<p>Alghamdi, A.G., Majrashi, M.A., Ibrahim, H.M., 2024. Improving the physical properties and water retention of sandy soils by the synergistic utilization of natural clay deposits and wheat straw. <em>Sustainability</em> 16(1): 46. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/su16010046">https://doi.org/10.3390/su16010046</a></p>
<p>Blake, G.R., Hartge, K.H., 1986. Bulk density. In: Methods of Soil Analysis, Part 1: Physical and Mineralogical Methods. 2nd Edition. Klute, A. (Ed.). SSSA Book Series 5. American Society of Agronomy, Soil Science Society of America, Madison, WI, USA. pp. 363-375. <a href="https://doi.org/10.2136/sssabookser5.1.2ed.c13">https://doi.org/10.2136/sssabookser5.1.2ed.c13</a></p>
<p>Bo, P., He, Q., Lan, Y., Li, J., Liu, H., Li, X., Wang, H., 2025. Reducing mineral fertilizer can improve the soil quality and increase the wheat yield and nutrient utilization efficiency: The fertilizing effect of organic-inorganic compound fertilizers. <em>Agriculture</em> 15(12): 1294. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15121294">https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15121294</a></p>
<p>Bray, R.H., Kurtz, L.T., 1945. Determination of total, organic, and available forms of phosphorus in soils. <em>Soil Science</em> 59(1): 39-46. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1097/00010694-194501000-00006">https://doi.org/10.1097/00010694-194501000-00006</a></p>
<p>Bremner, J.M., Mulvaney, C.S., 1982. Nitrogen - Total. In: Methods of Soil Analysis, Part 2: Chemical and Microbiological Properties. 2nd Edition. Page, A.L., Miller, R.H., Keeney, D.R. (Eds.). Agronomy Monograph 9. American Society of Agronomy, Soil Science Society of America, Madison, WI, USA. pp. 595-624. <a href="https://doi.org/10.2134/agronmonogr9.2.2ed.c31">https://doi.org/10.2134/agronmonogr9.2.2ed.c31</a></p>
<p>Cao, T., Zheng, Y., Dong, H., 2023. Control of odor emissions from livestock farms: A review. <em>Environmental Research</em> 225: 115545. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2023.115545">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2023.115545</a></p>
<p>Chobtang, J., Prajakboonjetsada, S., Watananawin, S., Isuwan, A., 2008. Change in dry matter and nutritive composition of <em>Brachiaria humidicola</em> grown in Ban Thon soil series. <em>Maejo International Journal of Science and Technology</em> 2(3): 551-558.</p>
<p>Department of Livestock Development, 2024. Number of livestock farmers and livestock in Thailand, 2024. Information and Statistics Group, Center of Information and Communication Technology, Department of Livestock Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Thailand. [in Thai]. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: <a href="https://gdcatalog.go.th/dataset/gdpublish-dld-01-0101">https://gdcatalog.go.th/dataset/gdpublish-dld-01-0101</a> </p>
<p>Doan, T.T., Sisouvanh, P., Sengkhrua, T., Sritumboon, S., Rumpel, C., Jouquet, P., Bottinelli, N., 2021. Site-specific effects of organic amendments on parameters of tropical agricultural soil and yield: A field experiment in three countries in Southeast Asia. <em>Agronomy</em> 11(2): 348. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11020348">https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11020348</a></p>
<p>Dobermann, A., 2007. Nutrient use efficiency - measurement and management. In: Fertilizer Best Management Practices. Krauss, A., Isherwood, K., Heffer, P. (Eds.). International Fertilizer Industry Association, Paris, France. pp. 1-28.</p>
<p>Edyvean, R.G.J., Apiwatanapiwat, W., Vaithanomsat, P., Boondaeng, A., Janchai, P., Sophonthammaphat, S., 2023. The bio-circular green economy model in Thailand - A comparative review. <em>Agriculture and Natural Resources</em> 57(1): 51-64. <a href="https://doi.org/10.34044/j.anres.2023.57.1.06">https://doi.org/10.34044/j.anres.2023.57.1.06</a></p>
<p>Erdogdu, A.E., Polat, R., Ozbay, G., 2019. Pyrolysis of goat manure to produce bio-oil. <em>Engineering Science and Technology, an International Journal</em> 22(2): 452-457. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jestch.2018.11.002">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jestch.2018.11.002</a></p>
<p>Gee, G.W., Bauder, J.W., 1986. Particle-size analysis. In: Methods of Soil Analysis, Part 1: Physical and Mineralogical Methods. 2nd Edition. Klute, A. (Ed.). SSSA Book Series 5. American Society of Agronomy, Soil Science Society of America, Madison, WI, USA. pp. 383-411. <a href="https://doi.org/10.2136/sssabookser5.1.2ed.c15">https://doi.org/10.2136/sssabookser5.1.2ed.c15</a></p>
<p>Havlin, J.L., Tisdale, S.L., Nelson, W.L., Beaton, J.D., 2013. Soil Fertility and Fertilizers: An Introduction to Nutrient Management. 8th Edition. Pearson Education, USA.</p>
<p>Iqbal, A., He, L., Ali, I., Ullah, S., Khan, A., Khan, A., Akhtar, K., Wei, S., Zhao, Q., Zhang, J., Jiang, L., 2020. Manure combined with chemical fertilizer increases rice productivity by improving soil health, post-anthesis biomass yield, and nitrogen metabolism. <em>PLoS ONE</em> 15(10): e0238934. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0238934">https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0238934</a></p>
<p>Iqbal, A., Ali, I., Yuan, P., Khan, R., Liang, H., Wei, S., Jiang, L., 2022. Combined application of manure and chemical fertilizers alters soil environmental variables and improves soil fungal community composition and rice grain yield. <em>Frontiers in Microbiology</em> 13: 856355. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2022.856355">https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2022.856355</a></p>
<p>Jaroenkietkajorn, U., Gheewala, S.H., Mungkung, R., Jakrawatana, N., Silalertruksa, T., Lecksiwilai, N., Prasara-A, J., Nilsalab, P., 2024. Challenges and opportunities of bio-circular-green economy for agriculture. <em>Circular Economy and Sustainability</em> 4(3): 1729-1750. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s43615-024-00355-9">https://doi.org/10.1007/s43615-024-00355-9</a></p>
<p>Kaewnoi, D., Kaewmanee, S., Wiriyaprom, R., Prachantasena, S., Pitaksakulrat, O., Ngasaman, R., 2024. Prevalence of zoonotic intestinal parasites in meat goats in southern Thailand. <em>Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases</em> 24(2): 111-117. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1089/vbz.2023.0046">https://doi.org/10.1089/vbz.2023.0046</a></p>
<p>Knudsen, D., Peterson, G.A., Pratt, P.F., 1982. Lithium, sodium, and potassium. In: Methods of Soil Analysis, Part 2: Chemical and Microbiological Properties. 2nd Edition. Page, A.L., Miller, R.H., Keeney, D.R. (Eds.). Agronomy Monograph 9. American Society of Agronomy, Soil Science Society of America, Madison, WI, USA. pp. 225-246. <a href="https://doi.org/10.2134/agronmonogr9.2.2ed.c13">https://doi.org/10.2134/agronmonogr9.2.2ed.c13</a></p>
<p>Kusumastuti, T.A., Rochijan, Fitriyanto, N.A., Widiati, R., 2022. Tangible benefits of Etawah crossbred goat manure utilization in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. <em>International Journal of Dairy Science</em> 17(2): 62-70. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3923/ijds.2022.62.70">https://doi.org/10.3923/ijds.2022.62.70</a></p>
<p>Liao, P., Miao, J., Chen, J., Sun, Y., Huang, S., 2026. Substitution of inorganic nitrogen fertilizers by animal manures alleviates soil acidification in croplands of China: A meta-analysis. <em>Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition</em> 26(1): 564-573. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s42729-025-02873-3">https://doi.org/10.1007/s42729-025-02873-3</a></p>
<p>Mhoro, L., Meya, A.I., Amuri, N.A., Ndakidemi, P.A., Mtei, K.M., Njau, K.N., 2023. Influence of farmers’ socio-economic characteristics on nutrient flow and implications for system sustainability in smallholdings: A review. <em>Frontiers in Soil Science</em> 3: 1112629. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fsoil.2023.1112629">https://doi.org/10.3389/fsoil.2023.1112629</a></p>
<p>NXPO (Office of the National Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Policy Council), 2021. BCG in Action: The New Sustainable Growth Engine. Bangkok, Thailand. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: <a href="https://www.nxpo.or.th/th/en/bcg-in-action/">https://www.nxpo.or.th/th/en/bcg-in-action/</a></p>
<p>OARD8 (Office of Agricultural Research and Development Region 8, Department of Agriculture), 2023. Techniques to increase sweet corn yield: fertilizer application by soil texture. Reported in Thairath, 7 November 2023. [in Thai]. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: <a href="https://www.thairath.co.th/news/local/south/2738553">https://www.thairath.co.th/news/local/south/2738553</a></p>
<p>Office of Land Development Extension and Technology Transfer, 2011. Compost production for sandy soil improvement with LDD 10. Leaflet no. 010034-2554. Land Development Department, Bangkok, Thailand. [in Thai]. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: <a href="http://www1.ldd.go.th/menu_Dataonline/G1/G1_32.pdf">http://www1.ldd.go.th/menu_Dataonline/G1/G1_32.pdf</a></p>
<p>Office of Science for Land Development, 2004. Soil fertility rating criteria. Land Development Department, Bangkok, Thailand. Reproduced in: Land Development Department, 2019. Manual of chemical soil analysis for soil fertility evaluation. Office of Science for Land Development, Land Development Department, Bangkok, Thailand. [in Thai]. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: <a href="https://e-library.ldd.go.th/library/flip/bib10134f/bib10134f.html">https://e-library.ldd.go.th/library/flip/bib10134f/bib10134f.html</a></p>
<p>Office of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning, n.d. Soil management by soil group, southern region: maize. Land Development Department, Bangkok, Thailand. [in Thai]. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: <a href="http://osl101.ldd.go.th/soilgr_man/south/crop/corn.htm">http://osl101.ldd.go.th/soilgr_man/south/crop/corn.htm</a></p>
<p>Office of the Central Committee on Prices of Goods and Services, 2026. Announcement No. 4/2569 (2026) on recommended retail prices of chemical fertilizers (in Thai). Ministry of Commerce, Bangkok, Thailand. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: <a href="https://khonkaen.moc.go.th/th/content/category/detail/id/161/iid/162828">https://khonkaen.moc.go.th/th/content/category/detail/id/161/iid/162828</a></p>
<p>Ogejo, J.A., Wildeus, S., Knight, P., Wilke, R.B., 2010. Technical note: Estimating goat and sheep manure production and their nutrient contribution in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. <em>Applied Engineering in Agriculture</em> 26(6): 1061-1065. <a href="https://doi.org/10.13031/2013.35912">https://doi.org/10.13031/2013.35912</a></p>
<p>Oklahoma State University Extension, n.d. Fertilizer nutrients in animal manure. Fact sheet. Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: <a href="https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/fertilizer-nutrients-in-animal-manure">https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/fertilizer-nutrients-in-animal-manure</a></p>
<p>Peterson, C.A., Deiss, L., Gaudin, A.C.M., 2020. Commercial integrated crop-livestock systems achieve comparable crop yields to specialized production systems: A meta-analysis. <em>PLoS ONE</em> 15(5): e0231840. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0231840">https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0231840</a></p>
<p>Phetburi, N., Phruetthikhani, N., Thongwithi, P., Onkaew, P., 2025. Effects of bio-fertilizer and high-quality organic fertilizer on the size and weight of oil palm bunches grown on acid sulfate soil, Phatthalung Province. Land Development Department, Bangkok, Thailand. [in Thai]. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: <a href="http://www1.ldd.go.th/WEB_PSD/PDF/evaluate/68/68_4/18%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%84%E0%B8%A3.pdf">http://www1.ldd.go.th/WEB_PSD/PDF/evaluate/68/68_4/18%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%84%E0%B8%A3.pdf</a></p>
<p>Rangaiah, K.M., Nagaraju, B., Kasturappa, G., Nagendrachari, A.N., Kadappa, B.P., Narayanaswamy, U.K.S., Sab, M.S.H., Veerabadraiah, G.G., Srivastava, S., Dey, P., 2024. Inductive cum targeted yield model-based integrated fertilizer prescription for sweet corn (<em>Zea mays</em> L. <em>Saccharata</em>) on Alfisols of Southern India. <em>PLoS ONE</em> 19(8): e0307168. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0307168">https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0307168</a></p>
<p>Rawal, N., Pande, K.R., Shrestha, R., Vista, S.P., 2022. Nutrient use efficiency (NUE) of wheat (<em>Triticum aestivum</em> L.) as affected by NPK fertilization. <em>PLoS ONE</em> 17(1): e0262771. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0262771">https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0262771</a></p>
<p>Schiere, H., Kater, L., 2001. Mixed Crop-Livestock Farming: A Review of Traditional Technologies Based on Literature and Field Experiences. FAO Animal Production and Health Paper 152. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy.</p>
<p>Soil Science Division Staff, 2017. Soil Survey Manual. USDA Handbook 18. Ditzler, C., Scheffe, K., Monger, H.C. (Eds.). Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C., USA.</p>
<p>Sumner, M.E., Miller, W.P., 1996. Cation exchange capacity and exchange coefficients. In: Methods of Soil Analysis, Part 3: Chemical Methods. Sparks, D.L. (Ed.). SSSA Book Series 5. Soil Science Society of America, American Society of Agronomy, Madison, WI, USA. pp. 1201-1229. <a href="https://doi.org/10.2136/sssabookser5.3.c40">https://doi.org/10.2136/sssabookser5.3.c40</a></p>
<p>Thammayod, A., Roschat, W., Leelatam, T., Phewphong, S., Maneerat, B., Leelatam, N., Thangthong, A., Moonsin, P., Promarak, V., 2025. Development of high-quality organic fertilizer from biomass waste and the application of biochar in local areas of Sakon Nakhon Province, Northeastern Thailand. <em>Trends in Sciences</em> 22(2): 9105. <a href="https://doi.org/10.48048/tis.2025.9105">https://doi.org/10.48048/tis.2025.9105</a></p>
<p>Udonsom, R., Mahittikorn, A., Jirapattharasate, C., 2022. Molecular detection and genetic diversity of tick-borne pathogens in goats from the southern part of Thailand. <em>Pathogens</em> 11(4): 477. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11040477">https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11040477</a></p>
<p>University of Minnesota Extension, n.d. Manure characteristics. University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, USA. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: <a href="https://extension.umn.edu/manure-management/manure-characteristics">https://extension.umn.edu/manure-management/manure-characteristics</a></p>
<p>Walkley, A., Black, I.A., 1934. An examination of the Degtjareff method for determining soil organic matter, and a proposed modification of the chromic acid titration method. <em>Soil Science</em> 37(1): 29-38. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1097/00010694-193401000-00003">https://doi.org/10.1097/00010694-193401000-00003</a></p>
<p>Washaya, S., Washaya, D.D., 2023. Benefits, concerns and prospects of using goat manure in sub-Saharan Africa. <em>Pastoralism</em> 13: 28. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1186/s13570-023-00288-2">https://doi.org/10.1186/s13570-023-00288-2</a></p>
<p>Wongkrachang, S., Anurut, W., 2025. Evaluating the potential of local agricultural residues for sustainable fertilizer production: Enhancing soil health and crop productivity in Narathiwat, Thailand, contributing to sustainable development goals. <em>Indian Journal of Agricultural Research</em> 59(11): 1711-1716. <a href="https://doi.org/10.18805/IJARe.AF-954">https://doi.org/10.18805/IJARe.AF-954</a></p>
<p>Wongkrachang, S., Chimniam, R., 2026. Possibilities of applications and the interest in adopting biochar as a renewable source of nutrients to increase crop productivity and improve soil fertility of small-scale farms in Narathiwat Province, Thailand. <em>Pertanika Journal of Tropical Agricultural Science</em> 49(1): 111-126. <a href="https://doi.org/10.47836/pjtas.49.1.07">https://doi.org/10.47836/pjtas.49.1.07</a></p>
<p>Yertayeva, Z., Kulanbay, K., Seidazimova, D., Yeleuova, E., Zhussupova, L., Zhaksybayeva, G., Kenzhaliyeva, B., Kuspangaliyeva, K., 2025. Effects of poultry manure and graded nitrogen fertilizer doses on wheat yield, plant and soil nutrient contents, and soil electrical conductivity under greenhouse conditions. <em>Eurasian Journal of Soil Science</em> 14(3): 290-297. <a href="https://doi.org/10.18393/ejss.1713163">https://doi.org/10.18393/ejss.1713163</a></p>
<p>Yue, Q., Guo, P., Wu, H., Wang, Y., Zhang, C., 2022. Towards sustainable circular agriculture: An integrated optimization framework for crop-livestock-biogas-crop recycling system management under uncertainty. <em>Agricultural Systems</em> 196: 103347. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agsy.2021.103347">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agsy.2021.103347</a></p>
Abstract
Narathiwat Province ranks third in Thailand for the number of goat farmers. Improper manure management can cause livestock disease and odor pollution, whereas appropriately managed manure is a potential nutrient source for the province’s nutrient-poor sandy soils. This study combined a field experiment on a sandy Ban Thon soil, arranged as a randomized complete block design with five treatments and five blocks (control; goat manure at 3.5 t rai⁻¹ [21.9 t ha⁻¹]; chemical fertilizer based on soil analysis plus 2.0 t rai⁻¹ goat manure; goat manure at 4.0 t rai⁻¹; and chemical fertilizer alone) with a purposive survey of 90 goat-integrated farms assessing manure supply, use, and gross fertilizer replacement value. After 75 days, chemical fertilizer plus manure produced the highest mean sweet corn fresh shoot biomass (mean ± standard deviation, 612.6 ± 55.4 compared with 150.5 ± 18.8 g plant⁻¹ in the control), significantly exceeding manure at 3.5 t rai⁻¹ (425.9) and chemical fertilizer alone (320.6 g plant⁻¹) but not differing significantly from manure at the farmer-practice rate of 4.0 t rai⁻¹ (535.5). Because the combined treatment received the full mineral fertilizer rate plus manure, this result reflects a greater total nutrient input and does not demonstrate synergy or fertilizer substitution. Post-harvest soil pH, available phosphorus, and exchangeable potassium were higher in manure-containing treatments than in the control and chemical fertilizer alone (exchangeable potassium 58.5-82.4 compared with 5.2-18.5 mg kg⁻¹). The surveyed farms produced an estimated 75,686 kg air-dry manure year⁻¹, a potential coverage of about 4.5% (2-11% across scenarios) of the estimated manure demand of their cropland, with a first-year gross fertilizer replacement value of about 107,500 Baht year⁻¹. Goat manure therefore appears best used as a supplement to, rather than a replacement for, mineral fertilizer; multi-season trials are needed to confirm yield and long-term soil effects.
Keywords: Circular agriculture, Goat manure, Sandy soil, Smallholder farmers, Soil fertility.
Author contributions: Siranee Wongkrachang: Conceptualization, Methodology, Investigation, Formal analysis, Data curation, Funding acquisition, Project administration, Writing – original draft, and Writing – review and editing. Niraj KC: Investigation, Validation, and Writing – review and editing. Zar Ni Zaw: Methodology, Validation, and Writing – review and editing. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
Funding: This research was funded by the Fundamental Fund of Princess of Naradhiwas University, Thailand, under the project “Improving the fertility of sandy soil (Ban Thon series) by using goat farm waste in Narathiwat Province for plant growth under the circular agriculture concept” (project code 80300), awarded to Siranee Wongkrachang. The funder had no role in the study design; data collection, analysis, or interpretation; manuscript preparation; or the decision to submit the manuscript for publication.
Data availability statement: The data supporting the findings of this study are provided in the manuscript and the Supplementary Material (Tables S1–S5) included at the end of the manuscript. These supplementary tables present statistical summaries, nitrogen-use index calculations, manure mass conversions, supply–demand scenarios, and gross fertilizer replacement calculations. Further information is available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Declaration of competing interest: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper.
Ethics approval: The farm survey was approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of Sirindhorn College of Public Health, Yala, Thailand (approval No. SCPHYLIRB-2569/638). Written informed consent was obtained from all participating farmers before the interviews. The field experiment did not involve human participants or animals.
Acknowledgements: The authors thank the farmers of Narathiwat Province, Thailand, for their participation and valuable insights.
Use of artificial intelligence: No artificial intelligence tool was used to generate, alter or analyse the data, results or figures reported in this article. Claude Opus 5.5 (Anthropic) was used solely for language editing to improve clarity; the authors reviewed and edited all suggestions and take full responsibility for the content.
References
Abid, M., Batool, T., Siddique, G., Ali, S., Binyamin, R., Shahid, M.J., Rizwan, M., Alsahli, A.A., Alyemeni, M.N., 2020. Integrated nutrient management enhances soil quality and crop productivity in maize-based cropping system. Sustainability 12(23): 10214. https://doi.org/10.3390/su122310214
Ahmad, A., Khan, A., Ullah, F., Hassan, M.A., Iqbal, J., Jun, W., He, S., Zhaorong, D., 2025. Integration of organic-inorganic nitrogen fertilization on nitrogen conversion in soil. Frontiers in Plant Science 16: 1688878. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2025.1688878
Alghamdi, A.G., Majrashi, M.A., Ibrahim, H.M., 2024. Improving the physical properties and water retention of sandy soils by the synergistic utilization of natural clay deposits and wheat straw. Sustainability 16(1): 46. https://doi.org/10.3390/su16010046
Blake, G.R., Hartge, K.H., 1986. Bulk density. In: Methods of Soil Analysis, Part 1: Physical and Mineralogical Methods. 2nd Edition. Klute, A. (Ed.). SSSA Book Series 5. American Society of Agronomy, Soil Science Society of America, Madison, WI, USA. pp. 363-375. https://doi.org/10.2136/sssabookser5.1.2ed.c13
Bo, P., He, Q., Lan, Y., Li, J., Liu, H., Li, X., Wang, H., 2025. Reducing mineral fertilizer can improve the soil quality and increase the wheat yield and nutrient utilization efficiency: The fertilizing effect of organic-inorganic compound fertilizers. Agriculture 15(12): 1294. https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15121294
Bray, R.H., Kurtz, L.T., 1945. Determination of total, organic, and available forms of phosphorus in soils. Soil Science 59(1): 39-46. https://doi.org/10.1097/00010694-194501000-00006
Bremner, J.M., Mulvaney, C.S., 1982. Nitrogen - Total. In: Methods of Soil Analysis, Part 2: Chemical and Microbiological Properties. 2nd Edition. Page, A.L., Miller, R.H., Keeney, D.R. (Eds.). Agronomy Monograph 9. American Society of Agronomy, Soil Science Society of America, Madison, WI, USA. pp. 595-624. https://doi.org/10.2134/agronmonogr9.2.2ed.c31
Cao, T., Zheng, Y., Dong, H., 2023. Control of odor emissions from livestock farms: A review. Environmental Research 225: 115545. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2023.115545
Chobtang, J., Prajakboonjetsada, S., Watananawin, S., Isuwan, A., 2008. Change in dry matter and nutritive composition of Brachiaria humidicola grown in Ban Thon soil series. Maejo International Journal of Science and Technology 2(3): 551-558.
Department of Livestock Development, 2024. Number of livestock farmers and livestock in Thailand, 2024. Information and Statistics Group, Center of Information and Communication Technology, Department of Livestock Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Thailand. [in Thai]. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: https://gdcatalog.go.th/dataset/gdpublish-dld-01-0101
Doan, T.T., Sisouvanh, P., Sengkhrua, T., Sritumboon, S., Rumpel, C., Jouquet, P., Bottinelli, N., 2021. Site-specific effects of organic amendments on parameters of tropical agricultural soil and yield: A field experiment in three countries in Southeast Asia. Agronomy 11(2): 348. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11020348
Dobermann, A., 2007. Nutrient use efficiency - measurement and management. In: Fertilizer Best Management Practices. Krauss, A., Isherwood, K., Heffer, P. (Eds.). International Fertilizer Industry Association, Paris, France. pp. 1-28.
Edyvean, R.G.J., Apiwatanapiwat, W., Vaithanomsat, P., Boondaeng, A., Janchai, P., Sophonthammaphat, S., 2023. The bio-circular green economy model in Thailand - A comparative review. Agriculture and Natural Resources 57(1): 51-64. https://doi.org/10.34044/j.anres.2023.57.1.06
Erdogdu, A.E., Polat, R., Ozbay, G., 2019. Pyrolysis of goat manure to produce bio-oil. Engineering Science and Technology, an International Journal 22(2): 452-457. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jestch.2018.11.002
Gee, G.W., Bauder, J.W., 1986. Particle-size analysis. In: Methods of Soil Analysis, Part 1: Physical and Mineralogical Methods. 2nd Edition. Klute, A. (Ed.). SSSA Book Series 5. American Society of Agronomy, Soil Science Society of America, Madison, WI, USA. pp. 383-411. https://doi.org/10.2136/sssabookser5.1.2ed.c15
Havlin, J.L., Tisdale, S.L., Nelson, W.L., Beaton, J.D., 2013. Soil Fertility and Fertilizers: An Introduction to Nutrient Management. 8th Edition. Pearson Education, USA.
Iqbal, A., He, L., Ali, I., Ullah, S., Khan, A., Khan, A., Akhtar, K., Wei, S., Zhao, Q., Zhang, J., Jiang, L., 2020. Manure combined with chemical fertilizer increases rice productivity by improving soil health, post-anthesis biomass yield, and nitrogen metabolism. PLoS ONE 15(10): e0238934. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0238934
Iqbal, A., Ali, I., Yuan, P., Khan, R., Liang, H., Wei, S., Jiang, L., 2022. Combined application of manure and chemical fertilizers alters soil environmental variables and improves soil fungal community composition and rice grain yield. Frontiers in Microbiology 13: 856355. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2022.856355
Jaroenkietkajorn, U., Gheewala, S.H., Mungkung, R., Jakrawatana, N., Silalertruksa, T., Lecksiwilai, N., Prasara-A, J., Nilsalab, P., 2024. Challenges and opportunities of bio-circular-green economy for agriculture. Circular Economy and Sustainability 4(3): 1729-1750. https://doi.org/10.1007/s43615-024-00355-9
Kaewnoi, D., Kaewmanee, S., Wiriyaprom, R., Prachantasena, S., Pitaksakulrat, O., Ngasaman, R., 2024. Prevalence of zoonotic intestinal parasites in meat goats in southern Thailand. Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases 24(2): 111-117. https://doi.org/10.1089/vbz.2023.0046
Knudsen, D., Peterson, G.A., Pratt, P.F., 1982. Lithium, sodium, and potassium. In: Methods of Soil Analysis, Part 2: Chemical and Microbiological Properties. 2nd Edition. Page, A.L., Miller, R.H., Keeney, D.R. (Eds.). Agronomy Monograph 9. American Society of Agronomy, Soil Science Society of America, Madison, WI, USA. pp. 225-246. https://doi.org/10.2134/agronmonogr9.2.2ed.c13
Kusumastuti, T.A., Rochijan, Fitriyanto, N.A., Widiati, R., 2022. Tangible benefits of Etawah crossbred goat manure utilization in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. International Journal of Dairy Science 17(2): 62-70. https://doi.org/10.3923/ijds.2022.62.70
Liao, P., Miao, J., Chen, J., Sun, Y., Huang, S., 2026. Substitution of inorganic nitrogen fertilizers by animal manures alleviates soil acidification in croplands of China: A meta-analysis. Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition 26(1): 564-573. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42729-025-02873-3
Mhoro, L., Meya, A.I., Amuri, N.A., Ndakidemi, P.A., Mtei, K.M., Njau, K.N., 2023. Influence of farmers’ socio-economic characteristics on nutrient flow and implications for system sustainability in smallholdings: A review. Frontiers in Soil Science 3: 1112629. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsoil.2023.1112629
NXPO (Office of the National Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Policy Council), 2021. BCG in Action: The New Sustainable Growth Engine. Bangkok, Thailand. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: https://www.nxpo.or.th/th/en/bcg-in-action/
OARD8 (Office of Agricultural Research and Development Region 8, Department of Agriculture), 2023. Techniques to increase sweet corn yield: fertilizer application by soil texture. Reported in Thairath, 7 November 2023. [in Thai]. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: https://www.thairath.co.th/news/local/south/2738553
Office of Land Development Extension and Technology Transfer, 2011. Compost production for sandy soil improvement with LDD 10. Leaflet no. 010034-2554. Land Development Department, Bangkok, Thailand. [in Thai]. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: http://www1.ldd.go.th/menu_Dataonline/G1/G1_32.pdf
Office of Science for Land Development, 2004. Soil fertility rating criteria. Land Development Department, Bangkok, Thailand. Reproduced in: Land Development Department, 2019. Manual of chemical soil analysis for soil fertility evaluation. Office of Science for Land Development, Land Development Department, Bangkok, Thailand. [in Thai]. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: https://e-library.ldd.go.th/library/flip/bib10134f/bib10134f.html
Office of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning, n.d. Soil management by soil group, southern region: maize. Land Development Department, Bangkok, Thailand. [in Thai]. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: http://osl101.ldd.go.th/soilgr_man/south/crop/corn.htm
Office of the Central Committee on Prices of Goods and Services, 2026. Announcement No. 4/2569 (2026) on recommended retail prices of chemical fertilizers (in Thai). Ministry of Commerce, Bangkok, Thailand. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: https://khonkaen.moc.go.th/th/content/category/detail/id/161/iid/162828
Ogejo, J.A., Wildeus, S., Knight, P., Wilke, R.B., 2010. Technical note: Estimating goat and sheep manure production and their nutrient contribution in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Applied Engineering in Agriculture 26(6): 1061-1065. https://doi.org/10.13031/2013.35912
Oklahoma State University Extension, n.d. Fertilizer nutrients in animal manure. Fact sheet. Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/fertilizer-nutrients-in-animal-manure
Peterson, C.A., Deiss, L., Gaudin, A.C.M., 2020. Commercial integrated crop-livestock systems achieve comparable crop yields to specialized production systems: A meta-analysis. PLoS ONE 15(5): e0231840. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0231840
Phetburi, N., Phruetthikhani, N., Thongwithi, P., Onkaew, P., 2025. Effects of bio-fertilizer and high-quality organic fertilizer on the size and weight of oil palm bunches grown on acid sulfate soil, Phatthalung Province. Land Development Department, Bangkok, Thailand. [in Thai]. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: http://www1.ldd.go.th/WEB_PSD/PDF/evaluate/68/68_4/18%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%84%E0%B8%A3.pdf
Rangaiah, K.M., Nagaraju, B., Kasturappa, G., Nagendrachari, A.N., Kadappa, B.P., Narayanaswamy, U.K.S., Sab, M.S.H., Veerabadraiah, G.G., Srivastava, S., Dey, P., 2024. Inductive cum targeted yield model-based integrated fertilizer prescription for sweet corn (Zea mays L. Saccharata) on Alfisols of Southern India. PLoS ONE 19(8): e0307168. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0307168
Rawal, N., Pande, K.R., Shrestha, R., Vista, S.P., 2022. Nutrient use efficiency (NUE) of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) as affected by NPK fertilization. PLoS ONE 17(1): e0262771. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0262771
Schiere, H., Kater, L., 2001. Mixed Crop-Livestock Farming: A Review of Traditional Technologies Based on Literature and Field Experiences. FAO Animal Production and Health Paper 152. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy.
Soil Science Division Staff, 2017. Soil Survey Manual. USDA Handbook 18. Ditzler, C., Scheffe, K., Monger, H.C. (Eds.). Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C., USA.
Sumner, M.E., Miller, W.P., 1996. Cation exchange capacity and exchange coefficients. In: Methods of Soil Analysis, Part 3: Chemical Methods. Sparks, D.L. (Ed.). SSSA Book Series 5. Soil Science Society of America, American Society of Agronomy, Madison, WI, USA. pp. 1201-1229. https://doi.org/10.2136/sssabookser5.3.c40
Thammayod, A., Roschat, W., Leelatam, T., Phewphong, S., Maneerat, B., Leelatam, N., Thangthong, A., Moonsin, P., Promarak, V., 2025. Development of high-quality organic fertilizer from biomass waste and the application of biochar in local areas of Sakon Nakhon Province, Northeastern Thailand. Trends in Sciences 22(2): 9105. https://doi.org/10.48048/tis.2025.9105
Udonsom, R., Mahittikorn, A., Jirapattharasate, C., 2022. Molecular detection and genetic diversity of tick-borne pathogens in goats from the southern part of Thailand. Pathogens 11(4): 477. https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11040477
University of Minnesota Extension, n.d. Manure characteristics. University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, USA. Available at [Access date: 13.08.2026]: https://extension.umn.edu/manure-management/manure-characteristics
Walkley, A., Black, I.A., 1934. An examination of the Degtjareff method for determining soil organic matter, and a proposed modification of the chromic acid titration method. Soil Science 37(1): 29-38. https://doi.org/10.1097/00010694-193401000-00003
Washaya, S., Washaya, D.D., 2023. Benefits, concerns and prospects of using goat manure in sub-Saharan Africa. Pastoralism 13: 28. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13570-023-00288-2
Wongkrachang, S., Anurut, W., 2025. Evaluating the potential of local agricultural residues for sustainable fertilizer production: Enhancing soil health and crop productivity in Narathiwat, Thailand, contributing to sustainable development goals. Indian Journal of Agricultural Research 59(11): 1711-1716. https://doi.org/10.18805/IJARe.AF-954
Wongkrachang, S., Chimniam, R., 2026. Possibilities of applications and the interest in adopting biochar as a renewable source of nutrients to increase crop productivity and improve soil fertility of small-scale farms in Narathiwat Province, Thailand. Pertanika Journal of Tropical Agricultural Science 49(1): 111-126. https://doi.org/10.47836/pjtas.49.1.07
Yertayeva, Z., Kulanbay, K., Seidazimova, D., Yeleuova, E., Zhussupova, L., Zhaksybayeva, G., Kenzhaliyeva, B., Kuspangaliyeva, K., 2025. Effects of poultry manure and graded nitrogen fertilizer doses on wheat yield, plant and soil nutrient contents, and soil electrical conductivity under greenhouse conditions. Eurasian Journal of Soil Science 14(3): 290-297. https://doi.org/10.18393/ejss.1713163
Yue, Q., Guo, P., Wu, H., Wang, Y., Zhang, C., 2022. Towards sustainable circular agriculture: An integrated optimization framework for crop-livestock-biogas-crop recycling system management under uncertainty. Agricultural Systems 196: 103347. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agsy.2021.103347
How to cite
Wongkrachang, S., Niraj, K., Zaw, Z., 2026. Goat manure integration affects sweet corn growth, soil fertility, and farm-level nutrient supply in sandy soils of southern Thailand. Eurasian J. Soil Sci. DOI : 10.18393/ejss.2027.16.1.154.169
Citation Styles
CLASSICAL
Wongkrachang, S., Niraj, K., Zaw, Z., 2026. Goat manure integration affects sweet corn growth, soil fertility, and farm-level nutrient supply in sandy soils of southern Thailand. Eurasian J. Soil Sci. DOI : 10.18393/ejss.2027.16.1.154.169
APA
Wongkrachang, S., Niraj, K., & Zaw, Z. (2026). Goat manure integration affects sweet corn growth, soil fertility, and farm-level nutrient supply in sandy soils of southern Thailand Eurasian Journal of Soil Science, DOI : 10.18393/ejss.2027.16.1.154.169
MLA
Wongkrachang, S., Niraj, K., and Zaw, Z. "Goat manure integration affects sweet corn growth, soil fertility, and farm-level nutrient supply in sandy soils of southern Thailand" Eurasian Journal of Soil Science, (2026) DOI : 10.18393/ejss.2027.16.1.154.169
TURABIAN
Wongkrachang, S., Niraj, K., and Zaw, Z. "Goat manure integration affects sweet corn growth, soil fertility, and farm-level nutrient supply in sandy soils of southern Thailand" Eurasian Journal of Soil Science, DOI : 10.18393/ejss.2027.16.1.154.169
IEEE
S. Wongkrachang., K. Niraj., Z. Zaw. "Goat manure integration affects sweet corn growth, soil fertility, and farm-level nutrient supply in sandy soils of southern Thailand" Eurasian J. Soil Sci., vol. , no. , pp. DOI : 10.18393/ejss.2027.16.1.154.169
ISO690
WONGKRACHANG, Siranee ; NIRAJ, KC ; ZAW, Zar Ni Goat manure integration affects sweet corn growth, soil fertility, and farm-level nutrient supply in sandy soils of southern Thailand. Eurasian Journal of Soil Science,.DOI : 10.18393/ejss.2027.16.1.154.169
Export Citation
Plain Text · BibTeX · EndNote · RefMan
Author Information
Publication Information
- Article first published online: 23 Ekim 2026
- Manuscript Accepted: 20 Ekim 2026
- Manuscript Received: 13 Ağustos 2026
- DOI: 10.18393/ejss.2027.16.1.154.169
- Stable URL: https://ejss.fesss.org/manuscript.php?id=4694
