Effects of organic fertilizers on the early growth parameters of Gac (Momordica cochinchinensis)

Crop Science Program, Faculty of Food Science and Agrotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Malaysia

^* Corresponding author: ramisah@umt.edu.my

Abstract

The Gac plant (Momordica cochinchinensis), widely recognized as a “super fruit” due to its rich phytonutrient profile and health-promoting properties, remains underexplored in terms of sustainable cultivation practices. While farmers often rely on inorganic fertilizers, organic alternatives offer a more environmentally responsible approach by enhancing soil health and reducing ecological impact. This study assessed the effects of different fertilizers, including organic sources (poultry manure, cow manure, vermicompost, and fish waste) as compared to inorganic fertilizer (NPK 15:3:20) on the early growth attributes of Gac plants over 14 weeks. Among organic treatments, fish waste emerged as the most effective, producing a main vine length of 402.32 cm, 4.4 lateral branches, and a leaf area of 172.28 cm², closely approaching the performance of NPK fertilizer. It also significantly enhanced chlorophyll content (3.86 mg/g) and contributed to optimal soil conditions, with a pH of 6.95 and electrical conductivity (EC) of 0.93 dS/m. The use of cow manure resulted in slower plant growth, with a main vine length of 211 cm and a leaf area of 109.14 cm². These findings highlight fish waste as a promising organic input that not only supports vigorous plant growth but also promotes long-term soil sustainability, offering a viable, eco-friendly alternative for Gac cultivation.