Effect of Neem Leaf Mulch Rates on the Growth, Yield and Blossom End Rot of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in Awka

Abstract

The experiment was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm of Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The aim was to evaluate the effect of neem leaf rates on the establishments, growth, yield and blossom end rot of tomato (Lycopersicon esculetum), in Awka, Anambra State. Four rates of Neem leaves were used as mulch which served as treatments (0.00 kg ha^-1, 2775 kg ha^-1, 5550 kg ha^-1 and 8338 kg ha^-1) on the PADMA 108 F1 variety of tomato. The neem leaves were applied on well prepared beds, one week before transplanting. Plots mulched with 5550 kg ha^-1 gave highest number of fruits per plant (16.70) while control plot gave lowest number of fruits per plant (4.90). Mulching with 8338 kg ha^-1of neem gave highest fruit weight (0.339 t ha^-1) while control plot gave lowest fruit yield (0.207 t ha^-1). Number of tomato fruits per plant affected by blossom end rot was highest in control plot (11.00) and reduced in plot mulched with 8338 kg ha^-1 of neem (4.00). Therefore, the use of 8338 kg ha^-1 of neem leaves is recommended for improved yield and increased resistance to blossom end rot in tomatoes in Awka.