Effects Of Organic Compost And Biofertilizer Application On Growth, Yield, And Soil Fertility Of Chili Pepper (Capsicum Annuum L.)

Abstract

The excessive use of synthetic fertilizers in chili pepper cultivation has contributed to declining soil fertility and environmental degradation, highlighting the need for sustainable nutrient management strategies. This study evaluated the effects of organic compost and biofertilizer application on the growth, yield, and soil fertility of chili pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). A factorial experiment based on a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was conducted using three levels of organic compost (0, 10, and 20 t ha⁻¹) and three concentrations of biofertilizer (0, 5, and 10 mL L⁻¹), resulting in nine treatment combinations with three replications. Growth parameters, yield components, and post-harvest soil fertility indicators were measured and analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at a 5% significance level. The results demonstrated that both organic compost and biofertilizer significantly enhanced plant growth, fruit yield, and soil fertility. The combined application of 20 t ha⁻¹ organic compost and 10 mL L⁻¹ biofertilizer produced the highest plant height (79.3 cm), fruit yield (18.72 t ha⁻¹), soil organic carbon (2.34%), total nitrogen (0.21%), available phosphorus (31.8 mg kg⁻¹), and exchangeable potassium (0.56 cmol kg⁻¹). The synergistic interaction between organic compost and beneficial microorganisms improved nutrient availability, stimulated microbial activity, enhanced nutrient uptake efficiency, and promoted sustainable soil health. These findings demonstrate that integrating organic compost with biofertilizers represents an effective and environmentally friendly nutrient management strategy capable of increasing chili pepper productivity while improving long-term soil fertility. The study provides valuable scientific evidence supporting the adoption of integrated nutrient management practices for sustainable horticultural production.