COMPARATIVE EFFICACY OF ORGANIC AND INORGANIC FERTILISERS ON VEGETABLE GROWTH AND YIELD IN SOUTH AFRICA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17501/26827018.2024.9108Keywords:
Bokashi compost, Cow manure, crop yield, Inorganic fertiliser, sustainable agriculture, vermicompostAbstract
This study investigates environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional inorganic fertilisers in South African agriculture. Inorganic fertilisers are known to pose risks to human health, environment, and groundwater. It assesses the efficacy of organic alternatives such as vermicompost, bokashi compost, and cow manure, when compared to inorganic fertilisers concerning the growth and yield of spinach, carrots, and peas. The experiment, conducted in a 10.08 m² rural garden plot in Bhongweni, assessed plant height, leaf length, number of leaves, branches, stipules, and pods monthly. Vegetable yields were measured during harvest, focusing on the number of leaves in spinach and carrots and the number of pea pods. Statistical analyses using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey test were employed to determined significant differences in the growth and yield of the pre-selected vegetables based on fertiliser type. Results indicated significant effects of different fertilisers on spinach height and leaf length. For carrots and peas, organic fertilisers significantly affected growth and yield by the third month. The findings suggest that organic fertilisers, specifically vermicompost, bokashi compost, and cow manure, are promising alternatives for sustainable vegetable production compared to inorganic fertilisers. This study recommends further research to optimise application rates and understand the mechanisms behind improved plant performance with organic fertilisers.
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