Growth, yield and quality of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) under organic fertilization schemes

Abstract: Momordica charantia L. is a vegetable crop commonly cultivated under chemical fertilization. Thus, its response to different organic fertilization schemes was investigated. Growth, yield, chemical properties and organoleptic properties were determined, and profitability was also assessed. The experiment was laid out using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) replicated thrice and applied with the following treatments: T1 (farmer’s practice-inorganic fertilizer); T2 (vermicompost); T3 (vermicompost and fermented fruit juice); T4 (vermicompost + calcium phosphate); and T5 (vermicompost + fermented fruit juice + calcium phosphate). Early flowering and fruit setting in bitter gourd were not influenced by the treatments while yield components were highest in inorganic fertilized plants. Vermicompost supplemented with calcium phosphate had higher vitamin A (7,354 I.U), while application of inorganic fertilizer contributed to higher vitamin C (69.87 mg/100 g). Total soluble solids (5 °Brix) was highest in plants applied with vermicompost and fermented fruit juice. A higher amount of phosphorus and potassium in the soil was observed after planting. In contrast, lower soil pH, percent organic matter and total nitrogen were manifested as compared to the initial soil analysis. No statistical differences was observed in color, crispness, and aroma, while statistical difference was observed in bitterness. Bitter gourds applied with inorganic fertilizer were the most bitter, while those fertilized with vermicompost and fermented fruit juice had the least bitterness.