Performance of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) as Affected by Biochar and Pig Manure Applications

Abstract

Eggplant (Solanum melongena) is an important vegetable valued for its nutritional and health benefits. The intensification of available land for cultivation has led to fertility depletion and low crop yield. Biochar is increasingly recognized as a soil amendment, while pig manure enhances crop quality and soil health. This study aimed to determine the effects of biochar and pig manure on eggplant performance. A 3×4 factorial combination of biochar levels (0, 2.5, and 5 t/ha) and fertilizer levels (0, 30, 60 kg N/ha of pig manure and 60 kg N/ha urea as a check) was evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Eggplant (MERDAN 465 F1) seedlings were transplanted at 60 cm × 50 cm spacing. The results revealed that applying 5 t/ha of biochar and 60 kg N/ha of urea resulted in a significant increase in eggplant growth compared to the other treatments. Fruit yield was significantly higher with the application of 5 t/ha of biochar (2872.2 kg/ha) than with 0 t/ha (939.5 kg/ha) but similar to 2.5 t/ha (1931.1 kg/ha). Fruit yield for the biochar and fertilizer interaction ranged from 1462 kg/ha (5 t/ha biochar with 0 kg N/ha fertilizer) to 4450 kg/ha (5 t/ha biochar with 60 kg N/ha urea). However, the fruit yield for plants treated with 5 t/ha of biochar with 60 kg N/ha of urea was similar to that of 5 t/ha of biochar with 30 kg N/ha of pig manure application. Considering the environmental cost, applying 5 t/ha of biochar with 30 kg N/ha of pig manure was adequate for good eggplant performance.