Archives

This study examines the differential impacts of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the emergence rate and early growth of BARI Tomato-7 also known as “Apurba”, is a popular tomato variety developed by the Bangladesh Agriculture Research Institute (BARI). The experiment was conducted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj, the experiment utilized three plots, each measuring 152 cm by 122 cm. The plots were assigned to three treatment groups: organic fertilizer, inorganic fertilizer, and a control group with no fertilizer. Results indicated that the inorganic fertilizer group achieved an emergence rate of 85%, with seeds emerging in an average of 5 days, while the organic fertilizer group had an 80% emergence rate, with seeds emerging in an average of 7 days. The control group exhibited a 75% emergence rate and seeds emerged in an average of 6 days. Although the inorganic fertilizer group showed faster initial growth, the organic fertilizer group demonstrated more sustainable growth over time, with improved soil health and higher microbial activity. This was evidenced by the organic fertilizer group’s taller plants and greater root length compared to the inorganic and control groups. This research underscores the necessity of a balanced fertilization strategy, integrating organic fertilizers to enhance soil health and sustainability while leveraging the rapid growth benefits of inorganic fertilizers. The findings provide valuable insights into sustainable agricultural practices for optimizing the growth and health of tomato plants.

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) holds a critical place in global agriculture due to its nutritional value and economic significance. In Bangladesh, the BARI Tomato-7 variety, also known as “Apurba,” has been developed by the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) to address the growing demand for high-yield and disease-resistant tomato cultivars (Hossain et al., 2017). The effective cultivation of tomato plants is heavily influenced by fertilization practices, which significantly impact both crop productivity and soil health. Organic fertilizers are derived from natural sources such as compost, manure, and plant residues. They enhance soil structure, increase microbial activity, and provide a slow, steady release of nutrients, contributing to long-term soil fertility and sustainability (Hosseini et al., 2016). These benefits are crucial for maintaining soil health and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.However, the nutrient release from organic fertilizers is slower compared to inorganic options, which may not meet the immediate nutrient demands of fast-growing crops. Inorganic fertilizers, composed of synthetic compounds like urea, triple super phosphate (TSP), and muriate of potash (MOP), offer readily available nutrients that can be quickly absorbed by plants, promoting rapid growth and development (Islam et al., 2018). These fertilizers are known for their efficiency and effectiveness in boosting crop yields. However, their long-term use can lead to soil degradation, reduced soil organic matter, and a decline in beneficial microbial populations (Singh and Singh, 2020).

Additionally, the overuse of inorganic fertilizers can result in nutrient leaching and environmental pollution. The comparative impacts of organic and inorganic fertilizers on specific crop varieties and under localized conditions remain an area requiring further exploration. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the effects of these fertilizers on the emergence rate and early growth of BARI Tomato-7, specifically under the environmental conditions of Gopalganj, Bangladesh. Understanding these effects is critical for optimizing fertilization strategies that balance immediate crop needs with long-term soil health. The primary objective of this study is to compare the impacts of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the emergence rate and early growth of BARI Tomato-7. The hypothesis posits that inorganic fertilizers will result in a faster emergence rate, while organic fertilizers will support more sustainable early growth by enhancing soil health. This research aims to provide insights that will guide farmers in making informed decisions about fertilizer use to enhance tomato production sustainably.

2. MATERIAL AND METHODS

2.1 Experimental site, design and treatment

The experiment was conducted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj, Bangladesh. The site was selected for its consistent environmental conditions and suitability for tomato cultivation. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was employed to minimize variability and ensure reliable results. Three plots, each measuring 152 cm by 122 cm (1.85 m²), were prepared. Each plot was assigned to one of three treatment groups: organic fertilizer, inorganic fertilizer, and a control group with no fertilizer. Compost was used as the organic fertilizer, applied at a rate of 4.6 kg per plot (calculated based on a recommendation of 2.5 kg/m²). An NPK (20-20-20) fertilizer was used, applied at a rate of 277 grams per plot (calculated based on a recommendation of 150 g/m²). No fertilizer was applied to the control plots to serve as a baseline for comparison.

2.2 Seed, soil preparation and planting

BARI Tomato-7, known for its high yield and disease resistance. Approximately 20-30 seeds per plot, ensuring adequate germination by planting 2-3 seeds per hole, spaced 30 cm apart in rows 45 cm apart. The soil was tilled and leveled to provide a uniform planting surface. Soil samples were taken before the experiment to assess baseline nutrient levels and pH. Seeds were sown directly into the prepared plots. Each seed was planted at a depth of 1-2 cm and covered lightly with soil. Plots were watered uniformly to maintain consistent moisture levels.

2.3 Data collection and statistical analysis

The percentage of seeds that successfully germinated in each plot was recorded. The number of days from planting to seedling emergence was noted. Plant height was measured weekly using a ruler from the base to the apex of the plant. The number of leaves per plant was counted weekly. Root length was measured at the end of the experiment by gently uprooting the plants. Biomass was determined by drying the plants at the end of the experiment and weighing them. Soil pH was measured before and after the experiment using a soil pH meter. Microbial activity was assessed using soil health test kits to measure microbial biomass. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine the significance of differences between the treatment groups. Post-hoc tests were conducted to compare means, and results were considered significant at p < 0.05.

3. RESULTS

3.1 Days to emergence and emergence rate of tomato plant (BRRI Tomato-7)

Seeds treated with inorganic fertilizers showed the fastest emergence, averaging 5 days. The organic fertilizer group had an average emergence time of 7 days, while the control group averaged 6 days. The emergence rate also varied across the different treatment groups. Tomato plants in the inorganic fertilizer group exhibited the highest emergence rate at 85%, followed by the organic fertilizer group at 80%, and the control group at 75%. These results indicate that inorganic fertilizers promote quicker and more uniform seed germination.

3.4 DiscussionThe results of this study underscore the significant impact of fertilizer type on the emergence and early growth of BARI Tomato-7. Inorganic fertilizers demonstrated a clear advantage in terms of emergence rate and speed. Seeds treated with inorganic fertilizers exhibited an 85% emergence rate, sprouting in an average of 5 days. This rapid germination can be attributed to the immediate availability of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are critical for early plant development (Singh and Singh, 2020). In contrast, the organic fertilizer group, while showing a slightly lower emergence rate of 80% and a longer average emergence time of 7 days, demonstrated more sustainable growth. The enhanced soil health and increased microbial activity observed in the organic fertilizer plots are consistent with findings from Hosseini et al. (2016), who reported that organic fertilizers improve soil structure and promote beneficial microbial activity. The dual benefits of organic and inorganic fertilizers observed in this study align with previous research. Inorganic fertilizers are known for their efficiency in promoting rapid initial growth due to their readily available nutrient forms. However, the continuous use of inorganic fertilizers can lead to soil degradation and a decrease in beneficial soil microorganisms (Islam et al., 2018). On the other hand, organic fertilizers, though slower to act, contribute to long-term soil fertility and sustainability by enhancing soil organic matter and microbial diversity (Hosseini et al., 2016).

Our findings highlight the importance of integrating both fertilizer types to optimize tomato growth and soil health. This integrated approach can leverage the rapid growth benefits of inorganic fertilizers while maintaining the long-term soil health advantages of organic fertilizers. Such a balanced fertilization strategy is essential for sustainable agricultural practices, as emphasized by (Rahman et al., 2019). For farmers in Bangladesh and similar agro-ecological zones, these findings offer practical insights into optimizing tomato production. The use of inorganic fertilizers can ensure quick germination and early growth, which is crucial for achieving early market access and maximizing yield within short growing seasons. However, to sustain soil health and productivity, integrating organic fertilizers into the fertilization regime is vital. This approach not only improves crop performance but also supports environmental sustainability by maintaining soil fertility and reducing the risk of nutrient runoff (Hossain et al., 2017).

While this study provides valuable insights, it is limited to the early growth stages of BARI Tomato-7. Future research should extend to the full growth cycle, including yield and fruit quality assessments, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the long-term impacts of these fertilizers. Additionally, investigating the economic aspects of using integrated fertilization strategies would offer valuable information for resource-limited farmers. Longitudinal studies focusing on soil health parameters over multiple growing seasons are also recommended to further elucidate the benefits of organic fertilizers in sustainable agriculture.

4. CONCLUSION

Our research suggests that inorganic fertilizers promote faster emergence and initial growth, organic fertilizers contribute to sustainable growth and improved soil health. A combined fertilization approach can leverage the strengths of both fertilizer types, ensuring optimal growth and productivity of BARI Tomato-7. These findings are crucial for informing sustainable agricultural practices and guiding farmers in making informed decisions about fertilizer use.

REFERENCES

Arancon NQ, Edwards CA, Bierman P, Metzger JD, Lee S, Welch C., 2004. Effects Of Vermicomposts on Growth and Marketable Fruits of Field-Grown Tomatoes, Peppers And Strawberries. Pedobiologia, 47(5- 6), Pp. 731-735.

Cavero J., Plant R.E., Shennam C., Friedman D.B., 1997. The Effect of Nitrogen Source and Crop Rotation on The Growth and Yield Of Processing Tomatoes, Nutr. Cycl. Agroecosyst. 47 (3), Pp. 271–282.

FAO, 2018. Food And Agriculture Organization of The United Nations.

Gianquinto G And Borin M. 1990. Effect Of Organic and Mineral Fertilizer Application And Soil Type On The Growth And Yield Of Processing Tomatoes (Lycopersicon Esculentum Mill.). Riv Di Agron. 24(4), Pp. 339–48. 22.

Hossain, M., Kabir, M., and Rahman, M., 2017. Development Of High-Yielding Tomato Varieties. Bangladesh Agriculture Research Institute.

Islam, S. M., Akhtar, M. S., and Nahar, Q., 2018. Comparative Analysis Of Organic And Inorganic Fertilizers. Bangladesh Journal of Agronomy, 23(4), Pp. 321-332.

Laxmi, P.R., Saravanan, S., and Naik M.L., 2015. Effect Of Organic Manures And Inorganic Fertilizers On Plant Growth, Yield, Fruit Quality And Shelf Life Of Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicon L.) CV PKM-1. International Journal of Agricultural Science and Research, 5(2), Pp. 7-11.

Mamun-Al-Munsur., M.S., Methela, N.J., Rahman, M.H., 2019. Influence Of Organic And Inorganic Fertilizer On Growth And Yield Performance Of Tomato. Journal Of Noakhali Science and Technology University, 3, Pp. 15-19

Oyewole, C.I., Opaluwa, H. And Omale, R., 2012. Response Of Tomato (Lycopersicon Esculentum): Growth and Yield, To Rates Of Mineral And Poultry Manure Ap-Plication In The Guinea Savanna Agro-Ecological Zone In Nigeria. Journal Of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare, 2, Pp. 44-56.

Rahman, M. S., Hossain, M. A., and Islam, M. S., 2019. Impact Of Fertilizer Use on Soil Health And Crop Yield. Journal Of Agricultural Sciences.

Saha, D., Fakir, O.A., Mondal, S., Ghosh R.C., 2017. Effects Of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers On Tomato Production In Saline Soil Of Bangladesh. J. Sylhet Agricultural University. 4(2), Pp. 213-220

Singh, J., and Singh, N., 2020. Long-Term Effects Of Inorganic Fertilizers On Soil Health. Soil Science And Plant Nutrition, 66(1), Pp. 15-25.

Tonfack, L.B., A. Bernadac, E. Youmbi, V.P. Mbouapouognigni, M. Ngueguim And A. Akoa, 2009.Impact Of Organic And Inorganic Fertilizers On Tomato Vigor, Yield And Fruit Composition Under Tropicalandosol Soil Conditions. Fruits, 64, Pp. 167-177

Zhang C.L., Zhang Y.D., Goa Z.M., Xu G.H., Wang L.Y., Zhou Q.S., 1988. Effects of Combined Use of Inorganic And Organic Fertilizers On The Yield And Quality Of Tomato, J. Soil Sci. 19 (6), Pp. 276–278.