Organic fertilization and its effect on the growth and yield of broad bean (Vicia Faba L.)

Abstract

A study was carried out in the canton of La Maná, Cotopaxi province, Ecuador, to evaluate the effect of organic fertilizers on the growth and yield of fava bean (Vicia faba L.). The study was carried out from april to august 2022 and 360 bean plants of the INIAP Portoviejo-491 variety were used. The factor studied was organic fertilizers; compost and earthworm humus fractionated in two applications. A completely randomized block design with three treatments and eight replications was used. The results obtained indicated that the organic fertilizers used, compost and worm castings, showed better results in most of the variables evaluated compared to the control treatment. Worm humus in particular proved to be beneficial, since it allowed an increase in bean crop yields, reaching an additional yield of 1,851 kg ha-1. This indicates that the use of organic fertilizers can be a viable alternative to traditional fertilization in this subtropical zone, improving soil structure and providing a better growing medium for plant roots. It is important to keep in mind that these results were obtained in a specific study and may vary depending on local conditions, soil characteristics and other factors. However, the research provides evidence that the use of organic fertilizers can have significant benefits on bean production in the area studied.