Assessment of Organic Composts on Growth and Production of Artichoke

Abstract

In Tunisia, organic production of vegetables is a new concept. The effect of compost mixes on vegetative growth and production of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.), cv. Violet d'Hyères, produced with organic methods was studied. The composts contained animal manures and olive solid or liquid by-products. Plant height and number of leaves at 120 days after planting were improved by application of a compost made of cattle manure (15%) + sheep manure (15%) + olive solid by-products (70%) + 600 L olive liquid by-products (C1). Early and total yield were improved due to use of C1 compost, compared to a compost made of fowl manure (25%) + olive solid by products (75%) + 600 L of olive liquid by-products (C3); 1573 g and 1870 g/plant, respectively, were recorded. The C1 compost improved early and total yield by 30% and 17%, respectively, compared to those for plants treated with a compost made of fowl manure (25%) + olive solid by-products (75%) in 600 L distilled water (C4). Weight and length of main and secondary buds were significantly improved by application of C1 and a compost made of cattle manure (15%) + sheep manure (15%) + of olive solid by-products (70%) in 600 L distilled water (C2), whereas C1, C2, and C4 improved total yield/plant. These composts could be used in organic production of artichoke.

Keywords:

• Cynara scolymus
• Bud traits
• Fertilizer
• Growth
• Organic
• Yield