RESPONSE OF EGGPLANT VARIETIES TO DIFFERENT TRANSPLANTING

DATE AND NPK FERTILIZER

BY

AZEEZ MUFLIAT TEMITOPE

MATRIC NUMBER: 18211141

DEPARTMENT OF CROP SCIENCE

SUPERVISOR: DR. ISYAKU N. ALABA

UNIVERSITY OF ABUJA

MAY, 2023

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 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Eggplant is a tropical fruit and it could present different shapes, sizes and colours, depending

on the cultivar. Fruits are purple, white or striped. The purple type is commercially more

important, and its colouration is caused by anthocyanins in fruit skin (analia et al. 2007).

Eggplant was first discovered and named by a Botanist called Thomas Jefferson (Fraces,

2016; Mohammed and Asenay, 2019). Egg plants are non-climacteric fruit, non-tuberous

cultivated herbs from a family Solanummelongena (Jett, 2011). The fruit is classified as a

berry which contains numerous small and soft edible seeds, while some have a bitter taste

because they contain nicotinoid alkaloids; this is unsurprising as it is closely related to

tobacco in certain composition (Bello and Sauban, 2015). It has an economic impact in

Africa, Europe, and Asia, where more than 90% of the total eggplants are produced. It is

particularly important and celebrated plant in China and India with highest consumption

(MartínezIspizua et al., 2021). The leading producers of eggplant are China (56% of world

output), India (26% of world output), Egypt and Turkey (Barik et al., 2020). Eggplant variety

are of different shapes and colors ranging from white, green, yellow, through grades of purple

pigment to almost black color (Muhammad and Senay, 2019).

Nigeria had a vast quantity of fruits and vegetables which are not just consumed as food only

but also used for medicinal purposes (Martínez-Ispizua et al., 2021). Eggplant is an

inexpensive source of nutrients which includes; proteins, carbohydrate, minerals, vitamins

and fibers (Kadiri and Jung et al., 2011; Olawoye 2015; Djouadi et al., 2016). Polyphenolic

compound and antioxidant activities in eggplant seems to depend on their variety, stage of

maturity and parts of the fruit used (Martínez-Ispizua et al., 2021). There is a remarkable

diversity among eggplant cultivars in the market varying in shape, size and color, eggplant

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fruit is ranked among the top ten vegetables in terms of antioxidant capacity and oxygen

radical absorbance due to their phenolic content (Jung.et al., 2011; Djouadi et al., 2016;

Martínez-Ispizua et al., 2021). It is one of the most important vegetable crops in West Africa

particularly Nigeria where it is consumed on a daily bases and remain source of income for

many rural people (Chioma et al., 2011; Nwanna et al., 2013). The eggplant is eaten raw,

boiled, or fried and also as an ingredient of stew, soup and vegetable sauces (Eletta et al,

2017).

The eggplant (Solanummelongena L.) is an annual plant of the Solanaceae family known as

nightshade (Aziz, 2010). The fruits are pear- round or long- shaped and cylindrical depending

on the variety (Jung et al., 2011). They are perennial crops but cultivated as an annual crops

grown for their commercially purposes. There are about 25 species of eggplants in Nigeria.

The prominent among these are; the Solanumaethiopicum (Ethiopian eggplant) and scarlet

eggplant known as bitter eggplant, they are the species of Gilo. Solanummacrocarpon L.

(Gboma eggplant) known as African eggplant and Solanummelongena (Eletta et al., 2017).

Fruits and vegetables have been considered as functional foods due to their health benefits

besides nutritional content (Yunusa et al., 2018). In relation to nutritional concerns, the

eggplant has become a highly consumed crop (Martínez-Ispizua et al., 2021). The

consumption of the fruits and vegetables has grown high due to the abundance health-

promoting compounds found in it (Yahia et al., 2018; Martínez-Ispizua et al., 2021).

1.2 STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Fertilizer on the growth, development, and yield of various eggplant varieties. Specifically,

the study seeks to answer the following research questions:

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1. How do different transplanting dates affect the growth and development of eggplant

varieties?

2. What is the impact of NPK fertilizer application on the growth, flowering, and fruiting of

eggplant varieties?

3. How do different eggplant varieties respond to varying transplanting dates and NPK

fertilizer applications?

4. Are there any interactions between transplanting dates and NPK fertilizer on the growth

and yield of eggplant varieties?

1.3 Justification

The response of eggplant varieties to different transplanting dates and NPK fertilizer can be

justified based on several factors. Here are some justifications for each aspect:

1. Transplanting Dates

Temperature: Eggplants are warm-season crops and require a certain minimum soil

temperature for optimal growth. Early transplanting in cool conditions may lead to

stunted growth and poor establishment. By experimenting with different transplanting

dates, you can identify the ideal time when the soil temperature is warm enough for the

eggplant varieties to thrive.

- Frost risk: Transplanting too early in regions prone to frost can be detrimental to the

eggplants. Delaying the transplanting date until the risk of frost has passed ensures

that the plants are not damaged, leading to better growth and yield.

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 - Day length: The length of daylight affects the growth and development of eggplants.

Transplanting too early or too late in the season can result in inadequate sunlight

exposure, which can affect the fruit set and overall productivity of the plants.

2. NPK Fertilizer

- Macronutrients: Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) are essential

macronutrients for plant growth. Nitrogen promotes leafy growth, phosphorus

encourages root development and fruiting, while potassium enhances overall plant

vigor and disease resistance. Providing the appropriate ratio of these nutrients through

NPK fertilizer ensures that the eggplant varieties receive the necessary nutrients for

optimal growth and productivity.

- Soil fertility: The availability of nutrients in the soil varies, and some soils may be

deficient in certain nutrients. By applying NPK fertilizer, you can supplement the soil

with the required nutrients, enabling the eggplants to access a balanced nutrient

supply.

- Growth stages: Different growth stages of eggplants require varying nutrient needs.

Adjusting the application rate and timing of NPK fertilizer according to the growth

stage can enhance the plants' ability to absorb and utilize the nutrients effectively.

1.4 OBJECTIVE

The study aims to achieve the following objectives:

1. Determine the effect of different transplanting dates on the growth parameters (plant

height, stem diameter, leaf area) of eggplant varieties.

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2. Evaluate the impact of NPK fertilizer application on flowering and fruiting

characteristics (number of flowers, fruit set, fruit weight) of eggplant varieties.

3. Compare the growth and yield performance of different eggplant varieties under

varying transplanting dates and NPK fertilizer treatments.

4. Investigate potential interactions between transplanting dates and NPK fertilizer on

the growth and yield of eggplant varieties

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 CHAPTER TWO

2.0 RELATED LITERATURE REVIEW ON RESPONSE OF EGGPLANT

VARIETIES TO DIFFERENT TRANSPLANTING DATE AND NPK

FERTILIZER

EFFECT OF NPK ON FRUIT VEGETABLES

-Nitrogen (N) and Eggplant

-Phosphorus (P) and Eggplant

-Potassium (K) and Eggplant

EFFECT OF TRANSPLANTING ON FRUIT VEGETABLES

-Shock and Stress

-Root Development

-Environmental Adaptation

-Season Extension

- Plant Spacing and Yield

2.1 EFFECT OF NPK ON FRUIT VEGETABLES

NPK is a common fertilizer formulation that contains three primary nutrients essential for

plant growth: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Each number in the ratio

represents the percentage of the nutrient in the fertilizer. In the case of NPK 15:15:15, it

means that the fertilizer contains 15% nitrogen, 15% phosphorus, and 15% potassium.

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(Smith, Papendick, Bezdicek and Lynch., 1993) The balancing of the treatment may be due to

balance uptake of N, P and k which resulted in increased plant weight due to increased

number of leaves and branches. The improved plant growth led to better carbohydrate build

up which increased the plant fruit yield and their quality components. In this concern,

(Agbede, Ojeniyi and Adeyemo., 2008) reported similar results and explained that addition of

suitable organic manure in the soil improves the soil physical and chemical properties which

encourages better root development, increased nutrient uptake and water holding capacity

which leads higher fruit yield and better fruit quality.

High potassium concentration in a plant affects carbohydrate accumulation (Starck 2003).

Supplying the plants with potassium greatly determines the eggplant’s fruit quality, therefore

selecting an appropriate potassium fertilizer kind and dose is very important (Kaufmann and

Vorwerk 1971, Golcz 1995, 1999, Nurzyński et al. 2001, Golcz et al. 2005).

When applied to fruit vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, or eggplants, NPK

15:15:15 can have several positive effects:

Nitrogen (N) and Egggplant

Kelly (1992), Devi et al. (2002) and Aujla et al. (2007) who reported that increasing the rate

of nitrogen fertilizers increased the average fruit weight and fruit volume. Nitrogen is crucial

for the growth of foliage, stems, and leaves. It helps plants develop a lush green color and

promotes vigorous vegetative growth. Adequate nitrogen supply encourages the formation of

more extensive and healthier leaves, which in turn enhances photosynthesis and the plant's

overall energy production. Rosati et al. (2002), Akanbi et al. (2007) and Aujla et al. (2007)

reported that increments in the nitrogen rate of the fertilizers increased the yield and number

of fruits. Increasing the N levels of the fertilizers to 50 kg N ha-1 significantly increased the

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yield of eggplant while yield decreased at the highest rate of nitrogen. This decrease in yield

might be due to excess levels in the plant. The marked effect of nitrogen on yield might be

due to the cumulative stimulating effect of nitrogen on the vegetative growth characters

which form the base for flowering and fruiting.

Phosphorus (P) and Eggpplant

Phosphorus is essential for the development of roots, flowers, and fruits. It aids in the

transfer of energy throughout the plant and promotes healthy root growth. Phosphorus is

particularly important for fruit development and ripening. It encourages the formation of

strong root systems, leading to better nutrient absorption and overall plant vigor.

John and Ronal ( 1982) Establish that Vegetable response to suboptimal solution P levels

varied among species. Yields for each crop increased linearly until optimum P was reached.

The rapid rise in the relative yield response for tomato and pepper suggests that these plants

were highly sensitive to inadequate P. Based on relative yields, it appeared that tomato

produced the best yields and eggplant the poorest at suboptimal P levels. This was not

unexpected, since tomato possesses an expanded fibrous root system and is able to utilize a

larger volume of soil and consequently a larger P reservoir. Eggplant, in contrast, has

somewhat restricted root system, reducing its usable soil volume. The effect of this difference

evidently becomes more apparent when solution P is limiting and, therefore, may account for

the high solution P requirement for maximum yield in eggplant.

Potassium (K) and Eggplant

Besides nitrogen ans phosphorous, Potassium k is a nutrient highly required by plants. It is

taken by plants in a form of K+ that is easily re-utilized at the level of the plant’s tissue and

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organ structures. High potassium concentration in a plant affects carbohydrate accumulation

(Starck 2003)

Kaufmann and Vorwerk (1971), Golcz (1995, 1999), Nurzyński et al. (2001), Golcz et al.

(2005). Said Supplying the plants with potassium greatly determines the eggplant’s fruit

quality, therefore selecting an appropriate potassium fertilizer kind and dose is very

important. Golcz (1995, 1999), Nurzyński and Michałojć ( 1998), Nurzyński et al. (2001)

Have shown that horticultural cultivations, only three forms of potassium fertilizers are most

often used: chloride, sulfate, and nitrate. Nowadays, they are all easily available on the

market, but their prices are varied, which results in high production costs due to the plants’

high requirements of potassium. Various studies have revealed that the kinds of potassium

fertilizers used influence yield size and quality, which results from the presence of

accompanying anions, i.e. Cl-, SO42-, NO3-. The studies carried out in 2004 and 2005

revealed a mean marketable yield of 4.25 kg m-2, which was similar to the results obtained

by others (Gajewski and Gajc-Wolska 1998, Kowalska 2003, Michałojć and Buczkowska

2007). Golcz and Markiewicz (2003) obtained a higher fruit yield. Different potassium

fertilizers had no significant influence on the yield size of eggplant fruits cultivated in peat

substrate. In the available literature, there is no information on the effects of various

potassium fertilizer forms on eggplant fruit yield. However, one can refer to the study by

Nurzyński et al. (2001) dealing with sweet pepper, in which fruit yield did not significantly

differ when K2SO4, KCl, and KNO3 were applied. Here, no significant influence of the

potassium dose applied in a form of K2SO4 and KNO3 on fruit yield was observed, except

from KCl. Golcz (2001) found no effects of potassium dose on pepper yield

2.2 EFFECT OF TRANSPLANTING ON FRUIT VEGETABLES

Shock and Stress

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Transplanting can cause shock and stress to fruit vegetables due to the disturbance of their

root systems. Research by Smith and Coultas (2009) found that transplanting shock can lead

to reduced growth, wilting, and nutrient deficiencies in transplanted fruit vegetable seedlings.

Minimizing transplant shock can be achieved through proper handling techniques, including

careful extraction of seedlings, minimizing root disturbance, and providing adequate water

and nutrients during the post-transplant period (Fisher et al., 2012).

Root Development

Transplanting affects root development in fruit vegetables. Studies have shown that root

growth can be temporarily inhibited after transplanting due to transplant shock (Hochmuth

and Hochmuth, 2002). However, once the seedlings recover from shock, root growth resumes

and may even become more vigorous than in direct-seeded plants (Albacete et al., 2009).

This enhanced root development in transplants can result in improved nutrient and water

uptake, leading to better plant establishment and productivity.

Environment Adaptation

Transplanting allows fruit vegetables to adapt to specific environmental conditions. By

starting seedlings indoors or in controlled environments, growers can establish healthier and

more robust plants that are better equipped to cope with adverse outdoor conditions. Research

by Davis and Mitchell (2016) demonstrated that transplanting enhanced the ability of fruit

vegetable plants to adapt to environmental stresses, such as temperature fluctuations, drought,

and pest pressure.

Season Extension

Transplanting extends the growing season for fruit vegetables by enabling earlier planting.

By starting seedlings indoors or in greenhouses, growers can transplant them outdoors once

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the weather conditions are favorable, providing an earlier start to the growing season. This

can lead to higher yields and longer harvest periods for fruit vegetables (Ferraro et al., 2013).

Plant Spacing and Yielding

Transplanting allows for precise plant spacing, which can influence fruit vegetable yields.

Research by Martin et al. (2011) showed that proper plant spacing during transplanting

significantly influenced fruit yield and quality. Transplants with appropriate spacing had

improved light interception, air circulation, and reduced competition for resources, resulting

in higher yields compared to densely spaced or direct-seeded plants.

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 Chapter Three

Material and Method

3.1 EXPERIMENTAL SITE

The Experiment will be carried out in two different site;

University of Abuja, Green House

The field Experiment will be carry out at Teaching and Research farm, Faculty of

Agriculture, University of Abuja, main Campus along Airport road, Abuja Nigeria,

It will be done between June and August 2023, during the rainy season period. The location

has geographical coordinate of latitude 8°39 and 8°5N of the equator and longitude.

The FCT under climate classification feature a tropical wet and dry climate, experience

three weather conditions manually . This Includes a warm, humid rainy season and a

blistering dry season. In between the two, there's a brief Interlude of harmattan occasioned

by the northeast trade wind, the main feature of dust Haze and dryness.

The rainy season begin from April and end in October. Rain fall in the FCT reflect the

territory's Location on the windward of jos, plateau and the zone of rising air masses with

the city receiving frequent rainfall during the rainy season, from March to November.

3.2 Experimental Material

The Eggplant varieties selected for the study include, local seed - yarbello,kibibi f1 and

hybrid merdan f1.

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The selection of the variety is base on their adaptability to the local growing conditions and

their commercial significance.

3.3 Experiment design and layout

The experiment will be conducted in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three

replications. The factors considered will be transplanting dates and NPK fertilizer treatments.

The eggplant varieties selected for this study are [Local seed, Hybrid Merdanfi,kibibi fi. The

transplanting dates will be [ 3,4,5 weeks respectively ], and the NPK fertilizer treatments

consisted of NPK 15:15:15, such as different combinations of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P),

and potassium (K)].

3.4. Crop Management

3.4.1. Raising seedlings: Three Different Nursery bed were prepared to Raised 3 different

variety of Eggplant seed

3.4.2 Mulching: Light mulching was done to prevent insect from eating the seed

3.4.3 Transplanting: After 3,4,5 weeks respectively of raising seedling the the plant will be

transplant into the permanent beds. The seedlings will be carefully uprooted and transplant

into the prepared plots with appropriate spacing between plants and rows.

3.4.4 NPK Fertilizer Application: The NPK fertilizers will be apply at the recommended

rates based on soil nutrient analysis and crop requirements. The fertilizer treatments will be

apply uniformly across all plots using appropriate equipment. Care must taken to avoid

fertilizer overlap or wastage.

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3.4.5 Weeding : This involve the removal of unwanted plant around the experimental site,

it was done manually ( hand picking of weed) it will be done weekly to avoid competitive

with plant

3.4.6 Tillage: The soil will be till few days before planting.

3.5 Data Collection.

Following parameters will be recorded during the experiment:

Days to 50% Flowering:

The number of days from transplanting to the emergence of 50% of the total number of

flowers per plant will be recorded for each variety and treatment combination. This parameter

indicates the time taken for the plants to reach the flowering stage.

Days to 100% Fruiting:

The number of days from transplanting to the development of 100% of the total number of

fruits per plant will be noted for each variety and treatment combination.This parameter

represents the time required for the plants to start fruiting fully.

Average Fruit Weight per Plot:

The weight of fruits harvested from each plot will be recorded, and the average fruit weight

per plot will be calculated for each variety and treatment combination. This parameter

provides insight into the productivity of the different eggplant varieties and fertilizer

treatments.

Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR):

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PAR will be measured using a PAR meter at regular intervals throughout the growing

season. This parameter quantifies the amount of light available for photosynthesis and its

potential impact on plant growth and development.

Net Assimilation Rate (NAR):

NAR will be calculated by measuring the leaf area and dry weight of plants at different

growth stages. This parameter will helps to evaluate the efficiency of photosynthetic

production and its conversion into plant biomass.

3.6. Data Analysis:

The collected data will be subjected to statistical analysis using appropriate methods such as

analysis of variance (ANOVA) and mean separation tests. The significance of differences

among varieties, transplanting dates, and NPK fertilizer treatments will be determined.

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