Use of vermicompost in the production of melon fruits and their nutraceutical quality [Empleo de vermicompost en la producción de frutos de melón y su calidad nutracéutica]

The increasing concern of public opinion regarding the negative impact of agricultural practices on the environment has oriented the production of this crop to be established in a sustainable manner. Particular concern exists about the fertilization issue. In this regard, vermicompost is an organic fertilizer that has acquired importance as a nutrient supply as well as a substrate component in protected horticulture. The aim of this study was to determine the vermicompost/sand proportion capable of increasing yield and nutraceutical quality of melon fruits produced under greenhouse conditions. We evaluated the fertilization applied using the following vermicompost/sand rates: 15/85, 30/70, 45/55, and 60/40. Overall, the highest vermicompost rates provided an adequate nutrimental status, in addition to a yield increase (6,21kgm-2) when compared to the lowest vermicompost rates (4.92kg-m-2), and also caused an increase of 27%25 in the nutraceutical quality in fruit. The use of vermicompost is an environmentally friendly alternative for commercial organic production of melon under greenhouse conditions since it decreases the use of inorganic fertilizers. Also, the price increase of organic produce improves the cost-benefit rate.

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