EXPERIMENTAL EVALUATION OF VEGETABLE AND FRUIT JUICE AS ORGANIC MANURE ON THE GROWTH AND YIELD OF TOMATO (SOLANUM LYCOPERSICON)

Author Name: David, Mark Stephen, Narciso, Trisha Joy, De Jesus, Edrian, Peña, Jerico, Gutierrez, Jai Kyle, Dominado, Noel L. Ed.D.

Volume/Issue: 06/09

Country: Philippines

DOI NO.: 08.2020-25662434 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/03.2026-13959934/UIJIR

Affiliation:

Senior High School Master Teacher, Department of Education-Pampanga, Philippines.

Adjunct Profession at Pampanga State University and Philippine Christian University

ABSTRACT

This research presents a thorough assessment of the use of organic amendments with a focus on fruit and vegetable waste (FVW) compost, to improve plant growth and enhance reproduction of Solanum Lycopersicon (tomato). Methodologically, the study is characterized by an experimental research design that was further enriched by qualitative observation narratives, and thus it contrasts the effects of FVW compost, green manure, and a control group. The results on a quantitative level demonstrated that FVW compost was a highly potent organic agent facilitating initial propagation, as the treated plants not only showed greater height but also a larger number of leaves and flower initiation at a statistically significant level (p=0. 01). The reason behind this excellent performance was the high content of the essential macronutrients Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) in the waste matter. On the other hand, based on qualitative observations, it emerged that an FVW compost, although able to unleash the greatest vegetative vigor, still had its vulnerability to weather variations and pest attack. Moreover, it was found that green manure had the greatest effect on the fruit yield, thus indicating that the total yield and plant height might be at least partially dependent on the plants genetic potential or the rate of nutrient release rather than the initial organic boosting only. The paper argues that the success of the yield is the result of an integrative "systems approach" whereby the initial soil conditioning sets the stage for the maximal utilization of the resources. From a practical standpoint, it is advisable for farmers to implement a sequential nutrient strategy: implementing FVW compost during the early vegetative stages for the growth of the plant structure, followed by green manure or potassium, based fertilizers during the fruit, setting phase.

Key words: Fruit Juice, Growth, Vegetable, Organic Manure, Tomato, Yield