Effects of vermicompost application on growth and yield of hot pepper (Capsicum frutescens)

Abstract

In parallel with the increase in the world population, healthy nutrition becomes more important for people every day. However, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) are also gaining importance. The main goal of our study is to reduce the level of inorganic fertilizer use. The experimental area where the study was conducted is located at 36° 31` 21`` north latitude and 32° 05` 07`` east longitude. In this study, 2 m high, 12 m long and 3 m wide plastic greenhouses with arc roofs were used. The greenhouses are naturally ventilated, unheated tunnel type greenhouses. UV-added plastic cover material was used as the cover material in the greenhouse. Hot pepper was chosen as the material. In the research, the development parameters of the hot pepper plant were examined by using different doses of one organic and one inorganic fertilizer type. Vermicompost (VC) was applied at a rate of 2,500 and 5,000 kg per hectare and inorganic fertilizer was used at a rate of 60-100-160 and 30-50-80 kg per hectare. Nine applications were carried out, including different doses of these two fertilizers, their combined use, and a control group. Plant heights, SPAD (Spectrum Authorized Dealer) values, plant diameters and yield values were measured weekly from the date the seedlings were planted in the experimental greenhouses until the end of harvest. The parameters found to be important in the variance analysis results of the data obtained from the trial subjects were compared with the Student’s t test, and the application groups were determined and interpreted statistically. As a result, the effects of VC and inorganic fertilizer values on the development parameters and yield values of the pepper plant were determined. It has been determined that the plant growth parameters and productivity are higher, especially when 5000 kg of organic fertilizer and 5000+60-100-160 mixed fertilizer are used per hectare. Therefore, good agricultural practices include reducing the use of inorganic fertilizers.