The efficiency of eggshell-based organic fertilizer on the growth of tomatoes

Abstract

In Uganda, there is limited research and adoption of bio-fertilizers and there is heavy use of chemical fertilizers that their continual application disturbs the natural biotic environment and affects the soil structure Eggshells act as a source of available calcium that can be made from commonly used household items. When applied as a foliar spray, this bio-fertilizer provides available calcium to plants for normal cell processes, root growth, and fruiting Given the potential of eggshells as a bio-fertilizer, there is limited research on the use of eggshell based fertilizer on the growth of tomatoes. Therefore this study aimed at testing the efficiency of the eggshell based bio-fertilizer on the growth of tomatoes. In study hydroponics method was used to grow tomatoes and then the bio-fertilizer was used to supplement their growth for a period of one month. The results showed that there were significant difference between the effect of eggshell fertilizer and that of the negative control where calcium was absent; therefore we reject the null hypothesis. The results conclude that the application of eggshell based fertilizer might be efficiently utilized in obtaining faster growth of tomatoes and other plants The eggshells could offer an economical and simple application for tomato and any other plant like other plants grown under suitable conditions