Effects of Compost, Biochar, and Inorganic Fertilizer Combinations on the Growth and Yield of Bushita Bean (Vigna unguiculata)

Abstract

Soil organic matter (SOM) is a critical component of soil management to support the growth and development of crops. Compost and biochar are popular soil amendments used to enhance the SOM content. The current study was conducted to determine the contribution of biochar in raising the growth and pod yield of bushita beans and the benefits of supplementing with inorganic fertilizers. The experiment was conducted in a farmer’s field at Vitharandeniya in the district of Hambantota, Sri Lanka from February to May 2022. Six soil amendment levels and two fertilizer management levels were tested in a 6 x 2 factorial experimental arranged in a split-plot design with three replicates. Growth and yield data were gathered during the study. The results showed that plant growth in terms of height, and yield and yield components, i.e., the number of pods per plant, the length of pods, weight of pods per plant, and pod yield were greater in plots that received 2% SOM from biochar, compared to the same content of SOM by compost, none and 1% SOM by biochar. Adding biochar to maintain 3 and 4 percent SOM did not significantly raise bushita bean yield. Application of fertilizer raised bushita bean pod yield, but the difference was not significant. Therefore, maintaining 2% SOM using biochar was found beneficial. Since this finding is based on a single season experiment, further work is suggested before making firm recommendations