Organic mulch sheet as a mitigation strategy in vegetable cultivation: Its effect on the growth and yield of chili (Capsicum annum L.)

Abstract

Plastic mulch, mainly used in chili cultivation, is less environmentally friendly due to its non-biodegradable characteristic. An alternative biodegradable mulch is needed to support growth and produce a desirable yield. Organic mulch sheet (OMS) is a promising alternative because it is made from natural fiber which is abundant and renewable organic material. This study aimed to understand the effect of organic mulch sheet (OMS) application on the growth and yield of chili (Capsicum annum L.). This research was carried out using a simple randomized complete block design with one control (black-silver plastic mulch) labeled as M0 and seven treatments (OMS compositions namely percentage of water hyacinth and banana stalk) labeled as M1 (80:20), M2 (70:30), M3 (60:40), M4 (50:50), M5 (40:60), M6 (30:70), and M7 (20:80). Mulch application significantly affected growth (plant height and number of leaves) and yield (fruit weight per fruit and fruit length) variables of chili. Although there was no significant difference in fruit weight per plant between control and OMS compositions, OMS application (M4) increased the yield of chili up to 25% from control. This finding affirmed that OMS is suitable for chili cultivation and can be used as a substitute for black-silver plastic mulch.