Growth and Yield Performance of Tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum)

as Affected by the Application of Different Concoctions

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Rationale

The tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum) is an important vegetable crop widely

cultivated worldwide due to its nutritional value and economic importance (FAO, 2021). It is
one of the most widely grown vegetable crops worldwide, and its yield and quality are
important factors for farmers, consumers, and the food industry. A tomato is a nutrient-dense
superfood that offers benefit to a range of bodily systems. Its nutritional content supports
healthful skin, weight loss, and heart health. In recent years, there has been increasing
interest in the nutritional and health benefits of tomatoes, including their high content of
antioxidants such as lycopene. Studies have shown that the consumption of tomatoes may
help prevent chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease (Johnson et al. 2019;
Lee et al. 2021). Additionally, tomatoes have been found to be a good source of vitamins and
minerals such as vitamin C and potassium (Carrillo-López et al. 2018).

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the global
production of tomatoes in 2018 was approximately 182 million tonnes. This production has
continued to grow over the past few years, with an estimated production of 190 million
tonnes in 2020. In terms of yield, the average worldwide production of tomatoes was around
40 tonnes per hectare, with some countries achieving yields of up to 100 tonnes per hectare.
The increase in production has been driven by an increase in demand for tomatoes, both in
fresh and processed forms. The market is subject to a variety of trends, including a shift
towards sustainable and organic production, as well as technological advancements in
production and processing. As the global population continues to grow and dietary habits
change, it is likely that the demand for tomatoes will continue to increase, making this fruit
an important commodity in the global market.
However, the productivity and quality of tomato crops are often limited by various biotic and
abiotic factors, including nutrient deficiency and imbalanced soil fertility (Ghaffari et al.,
2019). Tomatoes require adequate amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and
magnesium to grow and develop for optimal growth and yield. A deficiency in nitrogen can
result in stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and reduced fruit size, while a deficiency in
phosphorus can cause poor root development and reduced fruit production. Similarly, a lack
of potassium can lead to weaker stems, smaller fruit size, and increased susceptibility to
diseases and pests. In addition, deficiencies in other nutrients such as calcium, magnesium,
and sulfur can also impact tomato plant growth and development. However, soil nutrient
levels may be insufficient due to natural processes or poor farming practices, such as over-
fertilization, which can cause soil nutrient imbalances. Imbalanced soil fertility, such as an
excess or deficiency of specific nutrients, can lead to poor plant growth, nutrient imbalances,
and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases. Soils that are too acidic or alkaline can
limit the availability of certain nutrients, making it difficult for tomato plants to absorb them.
Additionally, overuse or misuse of chemical fertilizers can also lead to soil degradation,
erosion, and reduced soil fertility over time. This can have negative impacts on human health,
wildlife, and ecosystem services, such as water quality and biodiversity. Second, the high
cost of synthetic fertilizers can make it difficult for small-scale farmers to access them, which
can lead to inequality in the distribution of benefits from their use. This can have negative
social impacts, such as reduced income for small-scale farmers and increased food insecurity.
The dependence on synthetic fertilizers can lead to a decline in soil health and fertility over
time, which can reduce the long-term sustainability of tomato production and lead to
increased costs for farmers.

Farmers need to pay attention to these factors and adopt appropriate soil management
practices to ensure that their tomato plants have access to the nutrients they need for optimal
growth and development. Therefore, the use of various concoctions such as waterlily-based,
chicken bone biochar, and eggshell powder liquid fertilizers may help to overcome these
limitations and enhance tomato growth and yield. The three specific concoction liquid
fertilizers examined in this study (waterlily, chicken bone biochar, and eggshell powder) are
relatively novel products that have not been extensively studied in relation to tomato
production. The importance of this study lies in its potential to provide an eco-friendly and
cost-effective solution for fertilizer production. By utilizing household waste products such as
eggshells and chicken bones and their performance with the waterlily plant, the need for
synthetic fertilizers can be reduced, thereby minimizing environmental pollution, and
reducing the cost of plant production. Additionally, if the different concoctions are found to
be effective, they could provide a sustainable solution for improving crop yields and
addressing food insecurity issues. Thus, this study can provide valuable insights into the
potential benefits and limitations of these products in tomato production. The proposed study
will provide knowledge on alternative organic fertilizers that will be less expensive, more
sustainable, and environmentally friendly.

1.2 Significance of the Study

The study aims to investigate the effects of various organic plant and food
waste liquid concoctions on the growth and yield of tomato plants. The
significance of this study lies in its potential to provide information on
alternative and sustainable methods for enhancing tomato production.

This study specifically examines the effects of different organic plant and
food waste concoctions, namely fermented waterlily-based concoction,
chicken bone biochar concoction, and eggshell concoction, on the growth
and yield of tomato plants. The use of liquid concoctions as fertilizers is
gaining popularity due to their potential to improve plant growth and yield
as well as their environmentally friendly nature. By using these waste
materials, we can reduce the amount of waste going to landfills and, at the
same time, produce healthy food. These waste materials are readily available
and inexpensive, making them an economical option for farmers who want
to improve soil fertility without spending a lot of money on commercial
operations.
The results of this study could be beneficial to farmers who are interested in
using alternative methods to enhance their tomato crop production. If the
study finds that one or more of the different concoctions have a positive
effect on tomato growth and yield, it could lead to the development of new
organic fertilizers for tomato production.

In addition, the study's findings could contribute to the development of

sustainable agriculture practices, which is becoming increasingly important
as concerns about the environmental impact of conventional farming
practices grow. Overall, this study has the potential to provide valuable
information for improving tomato production, supporting food security, and
promoting environmental conservation.

1.3 Scientific Basis

Tomato plants are commonly grown in home gardens and commercial farms
worldwide. However, their growth and productivity can be enhanced by the
use of organic fertilizers. In this paper, we will explore the scientific basis of
using water lilies, chicken biochar, and eggshells as organic fertilizers for
tomato plants.

Water Lily as a Fertilizer:

Water lilies (Nymphaea sp.) are aquatic plants that can provide nutrients to
tomato plants when used as fertilizer. Water lilies contain essential
macronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are
important for the growth and development of tomato plants. In addition,
water lilies also contain micronutrients such as iron, manganese, and zinc,
which are essential for the proper functioning of enzymes in tomato plants
(Saber et al., 2020).
Studies have shown that water lilies can improve the growth and yield of
tomato plants. For example, a study by El-Sherbeny and El-Sayed (2017)
showed that the application of water lily to tomato plants increased plant
height, stem diameter, leaf area, and fruit yield. The study also found that
water lilies increased the nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content of
the tomato plants.

Chicken Biochar as a Fertilizer:

Chicken biochar is a type of organic fertilizer made from chicken manure

that has been heated in the absence of oxygen. Chicken biochar is rich in
nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as calcium,
magnesium, and sulfur (Van Zwieten et al., 2010). Chicken biochar also
contains beneficial microorganisms that can improve soil fertility and plant
growth.

Studies have shown that the application of chicken biochar can improve the
growth and yield of tomato plants. For example, a study by Atkinson et al.
(2010) found that the application of chicken biochar increased the growth
and yield of tomato plants. The study also found that chicken biochar
increased the soil organic matter content and improved soil structure.

Eggshells as Fertilizer:

Eggshells are a source of calcium, which is an important nutrient for tomato

plants. Calcium is essential for cell wall formation, root growth, and fruit
development in tomato plants. Eggshells also contain other nutrients such
as magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus, which are important for plant
growth.

Studies have shown that the application of eggshells can improve the growth
and yield of tomato plants. For example, a study by Trenkel et al. (2015)
found that the application of eggshells increased the calcium content of
tomato plants and improved fruit quality. The study also found that
eggshells increased the soil pH, which can improve nutrient availability to
tomato plants.

In conclusion, water lilies, chicken biochar, and eggshells can be used as

organic fertilizers for tomato plants. These fertilizers are rich in essential
nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as
micronutrients and beneficial microorganisms. The application of these
fertilizers can improve the growth and yield of tomato plants and improve
soil fertility. Therefore, farmers and gardeners can use these organic
fertilizers to enhance the productivity of their tomato plants.

1.4 Theoretical Framework

Nowadays, using organic fertilizers is an efficient method to achieve

sustainable agricultural development. The nutrient release rate of organic
fertilizers is slow and hardly exceeds the absorption capacity of plants
compared with chemical fertilizers. Organic fertilizers have a low nutrient
content, and their nutrient release rate depends on the water and
temperature conditions of the soil. The application of organic fertilizers not
only improves soil physical and chemical properties soil fertility, and soil
water storage capacity but it also can promote vegetative and reproductive
plant growth effectively thereby improving plant quality. Gao, F., Li, H., Mu,
X., Gao, H., Zhang, Y., Li, R., ... & Ye, L. (2023).

Solanaceae plants such as tomatoes require certain nutrients to grow.

Fertilizers can provide essential nutrients, including nitrogen potassium,
and phosphorus as well as micronutrients. Waterlily, chicken bone biochar,
and eggshell powder can all be used as organic fertilizers to improve the
growth and yield of plants.

Using liquid concoctions can help tomato plants grow and produce more,
but it's not the only factor that determines their success. The vital nutrients
that tomato plants require for healthy growth and development, such as
nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, can be given to
them in a well-balanced liquid mixture. These nutrients may support the
growth of robust roots, wholesome foliage, and fruit.

Potassium, calcium, and phosphorus are added to the mixture by the

waterlily leaves, while carbon and trace minerals are added by the biochar
made from chicken bones. The eggshell powder contains a lot of calcium and
other essential micronutrients for plant growth. These components combine
to create a nutrient-rich liquid mixture that can support strong plant
growth. However, it's important to note that the use of a liquid concoction is
just one aspect of tomato plant care. Other factors such as proper watering,
adequate sunlight, pest, and disease control, and appropriate pruning and
staking techniques also play a crucial role in ensuring the health and
productivity of tomato plants.

In summary, using a liquid concoction made from waterlily, chicken bone

biochar, and eggshell powder can provide essential nutrients to tomato
plants, improve soil structure and fertility, promote beneficial
microorganisms, and be a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to
synthetic fertilizers.

1.5 General Objectives

This study aims to explore the efficacy of various concoctions and to

investigate the effectiveness of these in promoting the growth and yield of
tomato plants.

Specific Objectives:

1. To assess the effect of different concoctions on the growth and yield of

tomato plants.

2. To determine the insect pest prevalence in tomato applied with various

concoction.
3. To determine the cost and return of producing tomato applied with
various concoction.

1.6 Review of Related Literature

METHODOLOGY

2.1 Materials and Methods

          Research Locale

The actual site of experimentation and observations will be Barobo National

High School, Purok 1B, Poblacion, Barobo, Surigao del Sur. Meanwhile, the
processing of fertilizer and fertilizer formulation used for the
experimentation will be done at Barangay Maglambing, Tagbina, Surigao del
Sur.

Formulation of Experimental Fertilizers

Waterlily, eggshells, and chicken bones will be utilized in the formulation of

fertilizers for experimentation.

The waterlilies will be collected from Bahi, Barobo, and Surigao del Sur. The
waterlily that will be collected will be chopped into small pieces, then will be
mixed into a gallon of water with 2 tablespoons of molasses. The mixture
will last for 7 days until it ferments and will serve as a concoction for the
tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum).

The chicken bones that we will be collecting from the restaurants will
undergo combustion to produce char or biochar by partially burning them
at 600–650 °C for 5 minutes. The chicken bone biochar will be crushed into
small pieces, then mixed into a gallon of water with 2 tablespoons of
molasses. The mixture will last for 7 days until it ferments and will serve as
a concoction for tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum).

The eggshells will be collected from the bakeries of Poblacion, Barobo, and
Surigao del Sur and will undergo sun-drying until excess moisture on their
surface evaporates. After drying, the eggshells will be powdered using a
mortar and pestle. The eggshell powder will be mixed into a gallon of water
with 2 tablespoons of molasses; the mixture will last for 7 days until it
ferments and will serve as a concoction for tomato plants (Solanum
lycopersicum).

Hence, waterlilies, eggshells, and chicken bones were used for the
formulation of fertilizers following the treatments of the study.

The experimentation process will have six (6) treatments in all. Treatments
1, 2, 3, and 4 will be applied with formulated fertilizers. On the other hand,
treatment 5 will be applied with commercial fertilizer. However, treatment 6
will remain untreated (negative control). There are estimated to be three (3)
gallons of formulated fertilizer that will be used in treatments 1 through 4.
For every treatment, there are three replicates. Hence, each replicate will
have 1 tablespoon of formulated fertilizer. The researchers will ensure that
the formulated fertilizers are mixed well before being applied to each
replicate in every treatment.

For treatment number 1, 1 tablespoon of 100% Mulch of Waterlily

Concoction will be used per replicate. Treatment number 2, 1 tablespoon
(100%) of chicken bone biochar concoction will be used per replicate. For
treatment number 3, 1 tablespoon (100%) of eggshell powdered concoction
will be used per replicate. For treatment number 4, a mixture of 1
tablespoon (100%) of Mulch of Waterlily Concoction, 1 tablespoon (100%) of
Chicken Bone Biochar Concoction, and 1 tablespoon (100%) of Eggshell
Powder Concoction will be used per replicate. For treatment number 5, 1
tablespoon (100%) of the NPK recommended rate of organic fertilizer will be
used per replicate. And for treatment number 6, on the other hand, the
patient will remain untreated and will serve as the negative control.
 

2.2 Research Design

This study will follow an experimental research design.

Experimental design using complete randomization (CRD) will be used in the

study using the following treatments:

      Treatment 1–3 replications of the tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum)

treated with 100% mulch of the waterlily concoction will be used per
replicate.

      Treatment 2–3 replications of the tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum)

treated with 100% chicken bone biochar will be used per replicate.

      Treatment 3–3 replications of the tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum)

treated with 100% of the eggshell powder mixture will be used per replicate.

      Treatment 4–3 replications of the tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum)

will be treated with a mixture of 100% Mulch of Waterlily Concoction, 100%
Chicken Bone Biochar Concoction, and 100% Eggshell Powder Concoction
per replicate.

      Treatment 5–3 replications of the tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum)

treated with 100% of the NPK recommended rate of organic fertilizer will be
used per replicate.

Treatment 6—3 replications of the tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum) left

untreated (negative control).

2.3 Statistical Tool

A paired T-test will be used to determine the significant differences between

the initial and final plant height, leaf width, and leaf length of the "Tomato"
plant in each treatment using IBM SPSS version 26 statistical application.

The Procedure
The experimental plant used in the study is the tomato plant (Solanum
lycopersicum), whose seeds will be purchased from the nearest market. The
propagation period of the "tomato" is 6–8 days. The average height of tomato
seedlings that will be used in the experimentation is 3 cm with healthy
sprouting cotyledon leaves. In this case, the plants will be transplanted into
different pots per treatment.

The pot where the seedlings will be transplanted has a diameter of 14 inches
and a depth of 15 inches. In the interim, the plant nursery where the
experimental set-up will be observed, which has raised beds of 6 x 4 square
meters and 10-15 cm in height, will be prepared.

The average plant height and leaf width are considered the initial plant
height and leaf width of the experimental tomato plant seedlings. Each of
the treatments established is loaded with 3 replicates of tomato plants,
which will be randomly selected for the experiment. The 4 treatments loaded
with 3 replicates of the "tomato" plant will be applied with the different
formulations of fertilizers stipulated in the 4 treatments.

The 1st treatment will be treated with 100% Mulch of Waterlily Concoction,
the 2nd treatment will be treated with 100% Chicken Bone Biochar
Concoction, the 3rd treatment will be treated with 100% Eggshell Powder
Concoction, the 4th treatment will be treated with a mixture of 100% Mulch
of Waterlily Concoction, 100% Chicken Bone Biochar Concoction, and 100%
Eggshell Powder Concoction, the 5th treatment will be treated with 100% of
the NPK recommended rate of organic fertilizer, and the sixth treatment will
remain untreated and will serve as the negative control.

In the span of 60 days, the treatments will be applied twice a week. Every
Monday and Thursday of the experimentation. The method that will be used
in applying the fertilizer is the ring method. The ring method is a type of
fertilizer placement that puts the fertilizer around the base of the plant. The
plant height, fruit count, leaf count, and yield of each treatment will be
recorded every day for 60 days.

EXPECTED OUTPUT AND POTENTIAL IMPACT

The expected outcome of the study is to determine the effectiveness of these

three organic concoctions in promoting tomato plant growth and improving
yield. The study aims to identify the optimal application rate and
combination of these concoctions that can provide the best results in terms
of plant growth and yield.

If the study shows that these organic concoctions are effective in promoting
tomato plant growth and improving yield, it could have a significant impact
on sustainable agriculture practices. The potential impact of the study could
be significant for farmers and gardeners who are interested in using organic
concoctions to improve their crop yields. If the study finds that one or more
of these organic concoctions is effective in promoting tomato plant growth
and yield, then farmers and gardeners could adopt these concoctions as a
cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers.

Moreover, the study could also help promote the use of these organic
concoctions as a way of managing organic waste. The use of these organic
concoctions could help reduce the environmental impact of agricultural
practices while promoting sustainable agriculture practices that support
food security and ecological sustainability. The findings of this study could
also provide useful information for farmers and researchers interested in
developing sustainable agricultural practices.

EXPECTED OUTPUT AND POTENTIAL IMPACT

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