Efecto de sustratos organicos en el desarrollo de melón en condiciones de invernadero

Abstract

The present study evaluated the effect of different organic substrates on the growth and development of melon (Cucumis melo L.) in a controlled environment. Five treatments were analysed, including a control, and key variables such as plant height, number of leaves and number of flowers were measured.The results showed that treatments consisting of clayey soil, balsa sawdust, dried cocoa and guabo leaves, plus biochar, significantly improved melon growth and development compared to the control. Treatment T2, involving the application of two litres of biochar, exhibited the most pronounced efficacy in enhancing plant height and floral abundance.At the 45-day stage after transplantation, T2 attained an average height of 246.7 cm and an average of 63 flowers, a substantial increase compared to the control (T5), which only reached an average height of 136.5 cm and 23 flowers. Treatment T4 (4 litres of biochar) demonstrated the highest number of leaves, with an average of 28 leaves per plant 30 days after transplanting, in comparison to the control, which had an average of 17 leaves.Furthermore, treatments T3 and T4 proved to be effective, with average heights of 245.8 cm and 240.9 cm, respectively, and a substantial number of flowers and leaves. In conclusion, the use of organic substrates is a viable alternative to optimise melon cultivation in greenhouses, promoting healthy and sustainable growth