Evaluación de tres dosis de fertirriego y tres dosis de champiñonaza sobre los parámetros agronómicos en el cultivo de pepino dulce (Solanum muricatum l.) Tunshi cantón Riobamba

Abstract

In Ecuador, the cultivation of pepino dulce has rapidly expanded due to its high consumption rate. This vegetable can be consumed fresh or processed, making it a highly profitable production alternative for farmers and a stable source of income in local, national, and international markets. The objective of this study was to evaluate three fertigation doses and three doses of champiñonaza on agronomic parameters in the cultivation of pepino dulce (Solanum muricatum L.) in Tunshi, Riobamba canton. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with a split-plot bifactorial arrangement was used, consisting of 12 treatments and 4 replications. The treatments corresponded to three fertigation doses (recommended dose, recommended dose + 50%, and recommended dose - 50%) and a control, combined with two doses of champiñonaza (1.5 t/ha and 3 t/ha). The evaluated variables included grafting success rate, plant vigor, flower vigor, days to flowering, chlorophyll measurement, and investment costs. The results showed that: The grafting success rate exhibited significant differences depending on the fertilizer used. Plant vigor showed a statistically significant difference in Treatment T5, demonstrating excellent plant health and development. Flower vigor was significantly higher in Treatment T6. Chlorophyll measurement yielded statistically significant results for both fertigation and champiñonaza. Investment costs amounted to $492. It was concluded that the best treatments included the recommended dose + 50%, along with 1.5 t/ha and 3 t/ha of champiñonaza, as they contributed to improved agronomic performance.