Comparative Agronomic Evaluation of Organic and Mineral Fertilizers Applied to Tomato (Lycopersicon Esculentum Mill.) Plots with or without Prior Soil Analysis.

Abstract:

This study compares the agronomic and economic efficiency of organic (poultry manure, cow dung) and mineral (NPK) fertilizers on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) cultivation in Cameroon, with or without prior soil analysis. Results show that poultry manure significantly enhances vegetative growth (plant height, number of leaves/flowers/fruits) and yield (up to 18.15 t/ha), outperforming mineral fertilizers and cow dung. Plots with pre-fertilization soil analysis achieved optimized yields with precise nutrient application, reducing costs. Economically, poultry manure delivered the highest profitability (up to 306% return), while unanalyzed NPK plots were the least efficient. Favorable climatic conditions and volcanic soil fertility in the West region further improved outcomes. The study recommends adopting organic fertilizers combined with soil testing for sustainable and profitable agriculture.