Improving Organic Melon Production Through the Application of Compost Tea in Arid Regions

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate some physiological aspects and yield of melon (Cucumis melo L.) under organic and conventional fertigation in arid environmental conditions. A greenhouse experiment utilised a randomised complete block design to assess the impacts of compost tea (CT), commercial humic acid (HA), and a non-fertilized control (T0) on growth and yield. The results demonstrated significant disparities among treatments for all characteristics. HA enhanced plant height by 26% and stem diameter by 33% compared to T0, while CT demonstrated increases of 16% and 19%, respectively. Dry biomass increased by 45% under CF and by 24% under CT compared to the control. For yield components, the yield per plant augmented by +131% with HA and +97% with CT. Correspondingly, the average weight of fruit increased by +78% under HA and +67% under CT. Fruit size exhibited significant enhancements: fruit length grew by +46% and +44%, and fruit width by 46% and 44% under HA and CT, respectively, in comparison to T0. Although HA had the highest total yield, CT also achieved notable improvements relative to the control, highlighting its potential as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative that reduces dependence on conventional fertilisers in melon cultivation systems.