Effect of different concentrations of bioslurry on the germination and production of tomato seedlings (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

Abstract

Tomato is one of the main horticultural products in Argentina. Its cultivation is intensive in the use of fertilizers and pesticides, which negatively impact the environment. The chemical fertilizers commonly used are, to some extent, gradually being replaced by liquid biofertilizers. A liquid biofertilizer (bioslurry) made from goat manure, fresh plant residues, and some mineral inputs was physicochemically characterized. To evaluate its effect on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) performance, two trials were conducted between October and November 2020: a seed germination test with increasing bioslurry dilutions (0 to 15%); and another trial in a greenhouse located in Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, to evaluate the effect of different doses of bioslurry (5, 10 and 15%), compared to a commercial fertilization plan for seedlings in plastic trays. The experimental design used was completely randomized plots in both cases. Bioslurry at concentrations above 5% negatively affected tomato seed germination. The biofertilizer achieved a nutritional effect on seedlings compared to the unfertilized control. However, this effect was inferior to the treatment with commercial fertilizers. It is advisable to initiate applications of bioslurry after seedlings have emerged. Further studies are needed on biofertilizer use concentrations, doses, application frequencies, and suitability for different crops. Also, to achieve the effect of a commercial fertilization program, it will be necessary to combine enriched bioslurry with other bio inputs that complement plant nutrition.