Browsing by Author "Masereka, Jonan"

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    Evaluation of Azolla-derived biofertilizer and black soldier fly larvae frass on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) growth and fruit yield
    (Busitema University, 2026-09-05) Masereka, Jonan
    Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is an important crop in Uganda because of its nutritional and income-generating value. However, tomato production is often constrained by poor soil fertility and the high cost of synthetic fertilizers. Organic fertilizers such as Azolla-derived biofertilizer and black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) frass may provide affordable and environmentally sustainable alternatives. This study evaluated and compared the effects of Azolla-derived biofertilizer and BSFL frass on tomato growth and fruit yield under open-field conditions at Busitema University, Nagongera Campus. A completely randomized design was used with seven treatments: five concentrations of aqueous Azolla extract (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 100%), BSFL frass, and an unfertilized control. Plant height, number of flowers, number of fruits, and fruit weight were measured. Data were analysed using two-way analysis of variance and descriptive statistics. BSFL frass produced the greatest plant height, flower number, fruit number, and fruit weight. Among the Azolla treatments, the 30% extract performed best. Treatment and measurement time had significant effects on tomato growth and yield (p < 0.05). The study concluded that BSFL frass was the most effective organic fertilizer for improving tomato growth and fruit yield under open-field conditions. A 30% Azolla extract was the best-performing Azolla treatment and may provide a low-cost option for smallholder farmers. These findings support the use of organic fertilizers as sustainable alternatives to synthetic fertilizers in tomato production.