Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Objectives: To produce the coir dust-based bio-organic fertilizer through bioconversion using Effective Microorganism (EM) and to investigate its effect on the growth and yield of cucumber and its cost of production and return of investment. Methods/Statistical Analysis: The Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used in the study. EM Activation, Formulation of Inoculant and Bio Conversion were also applied. All materials were prepared by the researchers to produce coir dust-based bio-organic fertilizer. It also utilized Land Preparation, Application of Coir Dust-based bio-organic Fertilizer, Planting and Care of Plants. Data were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Least Significant Differences (LSD) using the Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). Findings: Application of 25 ton/ha increased the number of fruits of cucumber. Applying coir dust-based bio-organic fertilizer to cucumber reduced the number of damaged fruits. As regards yield of cucumber, a significant increase of yield had been found to cucumber applied with coir dust-based bio-organic fertilizer at the rate of 25 ton/ha. Insignificant results were found on the number of leaves at maturity, length and diameter of fruits and number of damaged fruits. Cucumber applied with 15 ton/ha obtained the highest income with a return of investment (ROI) of 31.5%. Application of coir dust-based-organic fertilizer increased the number of fruits, undamaged fruits and yield of cucumber. Application/Improvements: The production of coir dust-based bio-organic fertilizers a worthy source of information to farmers to maximize the use of coco dusts. Likewise, the utilization/application of such bio-organic fertilizer can increase the number of fruits, undamaged fruits, and yield of cucumber, which is very favorable to cucumber growers.

Keywords: Bio-organic, Coir Dust, Cucumber, Effective Organism, Organic Fertilizer