EFFECT OF BIODEPOSIT ELIXIR ORGANIC FERTILIZER ON THE AGRONOMIC AND ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE OF TWO TOMATO VARIETIES (SOLANUM LYCOPERSICUM L.) GROWN UNDER FIELD CONDITIONS

Abstract

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) production requires sustainable fertilization practices to improve productivity while reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. This study evaluated the effects of different BioDeposit Elixir organic fertilizer application rates on the agronomic and economic performance of two tomato varieties under field conditions in Côte d’Ivoire. A field experiment was conducted during the 2024-2025 cropping season using a randomized complete block design with a factorial arrangement of two varieties (Petomech+ and Cobra 26 F1) and five application rates (0, 12, 15, 20, and 25 mL per 10 m²), with three replications. Morphological, phenological, yield, fruit quality, postharvest, and economic traits were evaluated. Data were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance followed by the Newman–Keuls multiple range test at P < 0.05. BioDeposit Elixir significantly affected most traits. Significant variety × BioDeposit Elixir dose interactions were observed for stem collar diameter, plant height, flowering time, fruit diameter, fruit fresh weight, gross yield, and shelf life. The 25 mL rate generally produced the highest values. Cobra 26 F1 showed superior performance for several traits, including plant height, fruit diameter, gross yield, and shelf life. The number of leaves, number of flowers, fruit appearance, harvest timing, and blossom-end rot incidence were mainly affected by the variety and/or BioDeposit Elixir dose without significant interaction. The 25 mL rate also resulted in the highest net economic value under both selling price scenarios (700 and 900 XOF kg⁻¹). Overall, BioDeposit Elixir improved several agronomic, postharvest, and economic traits, with responses depending on the trait and variety. The 25 mL rate provided the best overall performance under the experimental conditions.