SPINACH GROWTH ENHANCEMENT IN DIFFERENT CULTIVATION MEDIA THROUGH SEPTIC TANK WASTE ADDITION

Abstract

Septic tank waste has the potential to be used as an alternative organic fertilizer due to the presence of essential nutrients essential for plant growth. This study intended to assess the effects of liquid organic fertilizer resulting from fermented septic tank waste, along with different planting media, on the progression and yield of spinach (Spinacia oleracea). The research was conducted using a factorial arrangement in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with nine treatment combinations and three replications. The first factor was the dose of fermented septic tank waste: 0 mL/plant (LOF1), 0.5 mL/plant (LOF 2), and 1.0 mL/plant (LOF 3). The second factor was the planting medium: control (soil alone, PM0), soil + Farm Manure (PM1), and soil + Biochar (PM2). Growth parameters, including the number of leaves, root length, plant height, fresh and dry biomass, and root weight, were recorded. Results indicated that soil amended with chicken manure (PM2) significantly improved all measured variables compared to other media. However, there was non-significant interaction between septic tank waste application and the planting media for measured parameters. It is therefore concluded that while septic tank waste may serve as a potent nutrient source and further studies are needed to optimize its application for sustainable spinach cultivation