Effect of Transplanting Density and Organo-mineral Fertilization on Growth and Yield of Corchorus olitorius in Côte d'Ivoire

Abstract

Aims: The main objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of fertilizer doses and transplanting densities on the agromorphological performance of Corchorus olitorius, a widely consumed leaf vegetable species in West Africa. Study Design: An experimental design in randomized complete blocks was set up, combining three levels of transplanting density and three fertilization doses, in order to analyze their cross-effects on growth and leaf yield. The main factor was the transplanting density, while the secondary factor was the fertilizer rates. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in southern Côte d'Ivoire, during the wet season from August to September, under agroecological conditions typical of the humid forest zone. Methodology: Parameters measured include plant height, vegetative vigour, leaf number and weight, and flowering dates. The data were analysed using statistical tools to determine the significant effects of the treatments. Résults : The study found that fertilizer doses, whether organic or mineral, did not significantly influence vegetative growth, plant size (42.4 cm) or flowering time (68 days after sowing). In contrast, transplanting density had a marked effect on vegetative development, plant height (46.4 cm) and leaf yield, reaching 10.8 t/ha at 400,000 vines/ha. The interaction between fertilization and density influenced stem diameter (2.5 cm) and seed yield (up to 448 kg/ha). Organo-mineral fertilization also favored branching, with a maximum of 18 branches per plant. Thus, the combination of a density of 400,000 vines/ha and an organo-mineral input constitutes the most effective strategy to maximize the growth, branching and foliar and seed productivity of Corchorus olitorius. Conclusion: These results open up promising prospects for the sustainable intensification of market gardening systems in West Africa, by reconciling improved yields and respect for agroecological balances. They highlight optimized cultural practices, such as high density and organo-mineral fertilization, capable of enhancing productivity while preserving soil quality and crop resilience to climatic constraints.