RESPONSE OF SHALLOT (ALLIUM ASCALONICUM L.) IN DIFFERENT CONCENTRATIONS OF VERMICOMPOST TEA
The study evaluated the effects of the different concentrations of vermicompost tea (VCT) on the growth and yield performance of shallot. It has four treatments and three replications in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). The treatments were the following: Treatment 1 (no application), Treatment 2 (5% VCT), Treatment 3 (10% VCT), and Treatment 4 (15% VCT), where each plot measures 1 x 1 m. Based on the study result, 15% VCT showed a highly significant difference from other treatments in the average number of bulbs and average weight per plant. However, 15% VCT and 10% VCT showed no significant differences but are highly significant from other treatments in terms of the average diameter of the largest bulb. Also, 15% VCT, 10% VCT 3, and 5% VCT showed no significant differences but were significant from the control groups in the average final height of the plant. LSD further supports it, showing significant differences in control and other treatments. Therefore, 15% VCT or 150 ml VCT per liter of water is recommended for shallot production due to more and heavier developed bulbs. Meanwhile, there are researchable areas to be addressed, such as evaluating higher concentrations of VCT due to the increasing trends in several parameters. The evaluation of VCT in the production of other crops is recommended. Also, it is recommended to apply VCT in lahar-laden soil to improve soil fertility.
Shallot, vermicompost tea, bulbs, fertility.