BIBLIOGRAPHY WASING, DEVENS T. APRIL...
BIBLIOGRAPHY
WASING, DEVENS T. APRIL 2010. Seedling Emergence and Growth of
Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by Different Growing Media.
Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet.
Adviser: Franklin G. Bawang, MSc.
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted at Pomology project, Benguet State University from
November 2009 to February 2010 to determine the best growing media that will
promote/enhance seed germination and seedling emergence of tamarillo seeds and to find
out the effects of the different media and the seedling growth of tamarillo grown from
seeds.
Results revealed that there were significant differences observed among the
different media used. The seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost +
sand had the least number of days to complete emergence with a mean of 19.33 days.
Furthermore seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand attained
the highest percentage of seedling emergence with a mean of 96.67%. With regards to the
percentage of normal seedlings, the seeds sown in garden soil + alnus compost attained
the highest percentage of normal seedlings with a mean of 90.00%. Likewise, seeds sown
in the media garden soil + alnus compost attained significant results in terms of: weekly
growth increment with a mean of 8.17 cm; the seedling height at 60 days from seedling
emergence with a mean of 9.13 cm; the seedling height at 90 days from seedling
emergence with a mean of 11.83 cm; the number of leaves 60 days from seedling
emergence with a mean of 5.17; the number of leaves 90 days from seedling emergence
with a mean of 6.00; and for seedling vigor having the most vigorous and excellent
growth with dark green leaves. Meanwhile, the seeds sown in garden soil, garden soil +
alnus compost, coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand and garden soil + coco coir dust +
alnus compost + sand attained the shortest days for transplanting age with a mean of
75.33 days.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Abstract………. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Table of Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
iii
INTRODUCTION
Nature of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1
Importance of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2
Objectives of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Place and Time of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Description of Tamarillo Fruit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Seed Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Growing Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Climatic and Soil Adaptability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9
Propagation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11
Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11
Data Gathered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Number of Days to Initial
Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15
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Number of Days to
Complete Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
Percentage of Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17
Percentage of Normal
Seedlings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19
Number of Days to First
Appearance of Leaves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20
Growth Increment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21
Seedling Height at 60 Days
from Seedling Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22
Seedling Height at 90 Days
from Seedling Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25
Number of Leaves at 60 Days
from Seedling Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26
Number of Leaves at 90 Days
from Seedling Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27
Seedling Vigor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28
Transplanting Age . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
29
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS
AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
32
Conclusions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
33
Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
33
LITERATURE CITED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
34
APPENDICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
36
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1
INTRODUCTION
The tamarillo is the edible fruit of Solanum betaceum L, a species of small tree or
shrub in the flowering plant family Solanaceae. It is egg-shaped, with a thin deep red or
yellow skin and a soft flesh (when ripe), with dark-colored seeds occupying about one
third of the interior.
The tamarillo is generally believed to be native to the Andes of Peru and probably
also, Chile, Ecuador and Bolivia. It is cultivated and naturalized in Argentina, Brazil,
Colombia and Venezuela. It is widely grown in New Zealand as a commercial crop. Seed
from Argentina were imported by the U. S. Dept. of Agriculture in 1913 and such plant
was fruiting at the Plant Introduction Station at Chico, Calif. in1915.
Prior to 1967, the tamarillo was known as the “tree tomato” in New Zealand, but a
new name was chosen by the New Zealand Tree Tomato Promotions Council in order to
distinguish it from the ordinary garden tomato and increase its exotic appeal. The choice
is variously explained by similarity to the word “tomato”, the Spanish word “Amarillo”,
meaning yellow, and a variation on the Maori word “tama”, for leadership”. It is still
called Tree Tomato in most of the world.
The fruit is eaten by scooping the flesh from a halved fruit, but in New Zealand
children palpate the ripe fruit until it is soft then bite off the stem end and squeeze the
flesh directly into the mouths. When lightly sugared and cooled, the flesh makes a
refreshing breakfast dish. In addition, they give a unique flavor when added to stews,
hollandaise, chutneys, and curries. They are also tasty and decorative in, for example,
radicchio salads. Appetizing desserts using this fruit include bavarois and combined with
apples in a strudel. In Colombia, Ecuador and Sumatra, fresh tamarillos are frequently
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
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blended together with water and sugar to make a juice. It is also available as a
commercially pasteurized puree.
In country where tamarillo is a popular food item, it is made into mousse, jam,
jelly, chutney, and added to ice cream and yogurt, baked, and cooked as a substitute for
tomato. Filipinos know Spanish tomato only as a fresh fruit but due to its natural tartness,
consumption is limited. As such, during its peak production months from July to October,
much of the fruit are not disposed off by local fruit stands there by limiting market
expansion of tamarillo production.
Tamarillo are nutrient-packed with protein, fiber, nitrogen calcium, phosphorous,
iron, carotene, thiamine, riboflavin and ascorbic acid among others based on chemical
analysis in Ecuador, Guatemala and India and also by the Food and Nutrition Research
Center-National Institute of Science and Technology.
Tamarillo fruit can be potentially grown in backyard for availability and use.
However, mass production could be a problem under high demand because it is not much
popular in the locality specially for processing. So, it is therefore imperative to conduct
this study to be able to determine the best growing media that is suitable for growing
tamarillos.
The result of this study will provide information to researchers interested to work
on tamarillo fruit in order to help in the improvement of tamarillo fruit production and to
encourage farmers or fruit growers to produce tamarillo fruit due to its good potential in
the market especially when it is processed. Since tamarillo fruit is not much popular in
terms of production, this study is important as far as introduction is concerned.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
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The study was conducted to determine the best growing media that will
promote/enhance seed germination and seedling emergence of tamarillo seeds; to find out
the effects of the different growing media on the seedling and growth of tamarillo grown
from seeds.
The study was conducted at the Pomology Project, Benguet State University, La
Trinidad, Benguet from November 2009 to February 2010.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
4
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Description of Tamarillo Fruit
The tamarillo is small, attractive, half-woody, evergreen or partially deciduous,
shrub or small tree. It is also brittle and shallow-rooted, growing to a height of 10 to 18 ft.
The alternate, evergreen leaves are muskily odorous and more or less heart-shaped at the
base and ovate, pointed at the apex. They are 4 to 13 ½ inches long and 1 ½ to 4 ¾ inches
broad, thin softly hairy, with conspicuous veins. The leaves are fairy easily tattered by
strong winds. The fragrant ½ to ¾ inch flowers are borne in small, loose clusters near the
branch tips. They have 5 pale pink or lavender, pointed lobes, 5 prominent yellow
stamens and green-purple calyx. Tamarillo flowers are normally self-pollinating. If wind
is completely cut off so as not to stir branches, this may adversely affect pollination
unless there are bees to transfer the pollen. Unpollinated flowers will drop prematurely.
Flowers are usually borne in late summer or fall, but may appear at any time. The long-
stalked, dangling fruit, borne singly or in clusters of 3 to 12, is smooth egg-shaped but
pointed at the both ends. It ranges in size from 2 to 4 inches long and 1 ½ to 2 inches in
width. Skin color may be solid deep purple, blood red, orange or yellow, or red and
yellow, and may have faint dark longitudinal stripes. Flesh color varies accordingly from
orange-red or orange to yellow or cream yellow. While the skin is somewhat tough and
unpleasant in flavor, the outer layer of the flesh is slightly firm, succulent and bland, and
the pulp surrounding the seed in two lengthwise compartments is soft, juicy, and sweet.
The yellow types are usually a little sweeter. The pulp is black in dark purple and red
fruits and yellow in yellow and orange fruit. The edible seeds are thin, nearly flat,
circular, larger and harder than those of the true tomato (Facciola, 1990).
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
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Seed Emergence
The seed is the most important stage in the life cycle of the higher seed producing
plants with respect to survival of species (Antolin, 2001 as cited by Agnaya, 2004).
Aspilan (1998) stated that seedling establishment is a critical phase in the
production cycle of crops. Seedling uniformity and percentage emergence of direct
seeded crops have great importance on the final yield and quality.
The same author stated that a production cycle should have yield of high quality
products. Germination of seeds must be rapid and uniform under environmental and
biological stresses; however, it can affect germination and seedling growth. Seed
germination involves complex mechanism and processes many of which are only
partially revealed and understood.
Growing Media
The actual nutrient requirements of horticultural crops are based on several
parameters. They include soil diagnosis to determine the total nutrients, the available
nutrients and the factors contributing to a nutrient unavailability and plant diagnosis to
determine the actual amount of nutrients absorbed by the plant. Together, these are
correlated to establish a relationship between development and the nutrients
concentration of the plant tissue as influenced by the leaves of various nutrients in the
soil (Poincelot, 1980).
Brady (1984) as cited by Andres (2006) stated that the organic matter is
composed of living or dead plants and animal residues, which are very active and
important portion of the soilage. They protect soil against erosion; supplies cementing
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
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substance for desirable aggregation formation and is loosen the soil to provide better
aeration and water movement.
Organic matter has several functions as stated by Donahue (1971). The same
author (Donahue, 1971) stated that coarse organic matter on the surfaces reduces the
impact of falling raindrops and permits clear water to seep gently into the soil. Surface
run-off and erosion are thus reduced, and as a result, there is more available water for
plant growth. A fresh organic mailer provides food for such soil life like earthworms, ant
and rodents. These animals help to permit plants not to obtain oxygen to release carbon
dioxide as they grow. Organic mulches also reduce the evaporation losses of water. As
organic matter decomposes, it supplies some nutrients needed by the growing plants.
These nutrients are in harmony with the needs of the plant. When the environmental
conditions are favorable for rapid growth, the same conditions favor a rapid release of
nutrients from the organic matter. As organic matter contains a large part of the total
reserves of Boron (B) and Molybdenum (Mo), 5 to 60% of the phosphorous reserves, up
to 80% of the Sulfur and practically all of the Nitrogen. A soil with high organic matter
has more available water capacity for plant growth than the same soil with less organic
matter. Humus, a decomposed organic matter provides a store house for exchangeable
and available cat ions: K, Ca and Mg are temporary. Humus holds ammonium ions in an
exchangeable available form.
Jankowiak (1978) as cited by Andres (2006), stated that compost encourages the
formation of vigorous roots, which in turn produce a healthy plant which is capable of
taking in more food and water.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
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Thompson and Troech (1978) claimed that the nutrients release from well rotten
compost is probably better balanced and regulated than the fresh manure whereby
gardeners can therefore apply larger amounts of compost than the use of fresh manure,
without danger of injuring plants. They added that the use of compost also results in
humus formation and promotes good soil structure. Composts also supply nutrients such
as nitrogen, phosphorous and sulfur which are essential for plant growth.
Since about 1990, the use of coir dust is dramatically increasing. Coir dust is the
pithy materials left after coir fiber is extracted from coconut husks. It is produced in Sri
Lanka, Indonesia, Philippines and potentially in other tropical countries with extensive
coconut plantations. Coir dust is being dried and often compressed in block before being
exported. It has excellent physical properties and does not suffer from the water-
repellency problems of other organic materials. Its water holding characteristics are better
than most peats because of its finer pore structure. Coir dust main potential use is
increasing the water holding capacity of barks and saw dust without unacceptable
reduction in air-filled porosity. All coir products have a very high potassium contents and
very low calcium contents. Their pH generally close to 6 so there is no possibility of
using liming materials to supply calcium (Handrek and Black, 1993).
Antonio (2000) found that based on the result of his study, the best media
composition is 1:1:1 hortiperl + chopped coconut husk + coco saw dust + dried alnus
leaves compost. It promoted earlier flowering, faster flower development and promoted
higher yield of cut flowers per plant with a Return on Investment (ROI) of 54.52 %. The
author also recommended the use of hortiperl as a component of the growing media for
anthurium production due to the benefits that the growers derived from it. Such as it has
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
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good moisture holding capacity, well-drained and aerated, it is sterile and does not
decompose than other potting media used in anthurium farm which have to be
replenished.
On the other hand, Handreck (1993) enumerated the advantages of coco coir dust
over peat moss including the chemical properties. The electrical conductivity of 250
uS/cm is so high for vegetables like cabbage compared to the ideal electrical conductivity
of 2 to 3. The excessive salts present in the media of 250, 000 milligrams per kilo of coco
coir dust may be toxic to cabbage seedlings especially that the pH is strongly acidic.
Moreover, coco coir dust may be deficient from nitrogen element as almost all the
seedlings show nitrogen deficiency in which the green leaves becoming yellow, bronzed,
pink or purple as they age (purple tinge on old leaves) described by Scaife and Turner
(1983).
Manure stimulates the work of soil microbes that unlock plant food held in soil
borne mineral compounds. It adds nutrients and humus to the soil, aids in composting
operations and in its green state will provide heat for cold frames (compositions) as it
decomposes. Lastly, it improves the physical condition of heavy soil (Jankowiak, 1978).
Foth and Turk (1972) a cited by Andres (2006) noted that rotten manure is a rich
food constituent. This concentration of plant nutrient is due to shrinkage in dry weight,
which could automatically raise the level of plant food.
Christopher (1958) stated that fresh manure is relatively higher in nitrogen and
potassium than in phosphorous. He further stated that manure may increase water holding
capacity, improve structure and provide a satisfactory medium in which various desirable
bacteria may develop. It supplies many of the chemicals recognized as minor elements
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
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and in all probability, some other elements and possibly hormones which is yet to be
recognized.
Laurie (1956) stated that humus increases the power of the soil to hold water
soluble materials in water. Its colloidal properties permit absorption to gases and their
retention. These same colloidal properties improve the structure, making it granular. He
further stated that humus aids in the absorption of gases and their retention of soil heat. It
also makes potassium and phosphorous compounds available through the acids that are
formed in the process of decompositions; soil nitrogen which is normally derived from
the decomposition of humus is helpful in the growth of organisms needed in the soil.
Incorporation of these different organic matters in the soil is very important
especially to horticultural crops that they may enhance the growth of the crops (Laurie,
1956).
Climatic and Soil Adaptability
The tamarillo is a subtropical rather than tropical and flourishes between 5,000 to
10,000 ft. in its Andean homeland. In cooler climates it succeeds at lower elevations, but
does best where the temperature remains above 50 0F. The plant is grown casually in
California and occasionally in Florida. Tamarillos have been successfully grown in such
northern California locations as San Rafael and Santa Rosa. Frost at 28 0F kills small
branches and foliage of mature trees but not the largest branches and main stem. The tree
will recover if such frosts are not prolonged or frequent. However, seedlings and cuttings
are readily killed by frost during their first year.
Protection from wind is necessary as the tree is shallow rooted and easily blown
over. It is also brittle and its branches are easily broken by gusts, especially when laden
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
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with fruit. Tamarillos have been grown as houseplants for years. They fruit satisfactorily
in northern greenhouses.
Propagation
Seeds and cuttings may be used for propagation. Seeds product a high-branched,
erect tree, while cutting develop into a short, bushy plant with low-lying branches. The
tree does not always come true from seed, but is most likely to if one is careful to take
seed from red fruits with black seed pulp or yellow fruits with yellow seed pulp.
Germination is accelerated by placing washed and dried seed in a freezer for 24 hours
before planting out. Cuttings should be of 1 to 2 year-old wood 3/8 to 1 inch thick and 18
to 30 inches long. The leaves are removed and the base cut square below a node. Cuttings
can be planted directly in the ground, but should not be permitted to fruit the first year.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
11
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Materials
To successfully carry-out the activities in this study, the following materials were
used: tamarillo seeds, growing media (sand, garden soil, alnus compost, coco coir dust),
water, ruler polyethylene bags (3” x 5”) and labeling materials.
Methods
Experimental design and treatments. The experiment was laid out using
Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with eight (8) treatments that was
replicated three (3) times. The treatments were as follows:
CODE DESCRIPTION
T1 Garden soil (control)
T2 1:1 garden soil + coco coir dust
T3 1:1 garden soil + alnus compost
T4 1:1 coco coir dust + alnus compost
T5 1:1:1 garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
T6 1:1:1 garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
T7 1:1:1 coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
T8 1:1:1:1 garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus
compost + sand
Figure 1 shows an over view of the experimental area.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
12
Figure 1. Over view of the experimental area.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
13
Preparation of growing media. The different growing media were mixed
following the indicated ratio and were placed in the black polyethylene bags (3” x 5”)
where the tamarillo seeds were sown.
Seed extraction. The tamarillo seeds were collected at Bakun, Benguet from a
high yielding mother plant and fully ripe with a color of orange or yellow. The fruit were
cut at the apex and the seeds were extracted and washed in order to have partial removal
of the seeds parchment or mucilage.
Drying duration of seeds. The tamarillo seeds that were extracted were selected at
uniform size and about 240 seeds. The seeds then were air dried for 30 minutes.
Sowing the seeds. Then after 30 minutes drying of tamarillo seeds, these were
sown at horizontal position.
Care and management. The recommended cultural management practices such as
weeding, irrigation and control of insect pests and diseases were followed to insure
excellent emergence performance.
Data Gathered
The data gathered were as follows:
1. Number of days to initial emergence. This was taken by counting the number of
days from sowing of seeds up to initial seedling emergence.
2. Number of days to complete emergence. This was taken by counting the
number of days from sowing of seeds up to complete seedling emergence.
3. Percentage of emergence. This was taken by using the formula:
Emergence percentage = No. of Germinant x 100
Total No. of Seedlings
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
14
4. Percentage of normal seedlings. This was taken by using the formula:
% of normal seedlings = No. of Normal Seedlings x 100
Total No. of Seedlings
5. Number of days to first appearance of leaves. This was taken by counting the
number of days from sowing to first appearance of leaves.
6. Growth increment. This was taken weekly until transplanting by measuring the
height of the seedlings from the base up to tip.
7. Seedling height (cm). This was taken from the base up to tip of the seedlings at
60 days and 90 days from seedling emergence.
8. Number of leaves. This was taken by counting the number of leaves at 60 days
and 90 days from seedling emergence.
9. Seedling vigor. This was taken by using the scale sixty days from planting.
Rating Description
1 most vigorous – excellent growth with dark green leaves
2 vigorous – good growth with green leaves
3 less vigorous – slightly good growth with light green leaves
4 poor – poor growth with yellow leaves
10. Transplanting age. This was taken by counting the days from sowing to
transplanting.
11. Documentation of the study through pictures. This was taken during the entire
duration of the study.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
15
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Number of Days to Initial Emergence
As presented in Table 1, there were no significant statistical differences observed
among the different media used in the study on the number of days to initial emergence
of tamarillo seeds. However, the numerical results showed that seeds sown in garden soil
as the control, garden soil + alnus compost, garden soil + coco coir dust + sand, coco coir
dust + alnus compost + sand, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
were the earlier seedlings to emerge with a mean of 17.00 days. This was followed by the
seeds sown in a media combination of garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
having slightly higher number of days to initial emergence. The treatment media of
garden soil + coco coir dust with a mean of 18.67 days was the last to attain initial
emergence.
The results may imply that as to initial emergence, garden soil combined with
alnus compost, coco coir dust, and sand will promote earlier seedling emergence of
tamarillo seeds.
The results agree with the findings of Bisley (2008) that a mixture of 1:1:1:1
garden soil + sand + alnus compost and a part of sawdust induces shorter days for papaya
seedling to emergence.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
16
Table 1. Number of days to initial emergence
TREATMENT
NUMBER OF DAYS
Garden soil (control)
17.00a
Garden soil + coco coir dust
18.67a
Garden soil + alnus compost
17.00a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
18.33a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
17.67a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
17.00a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
17.00a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
17.00a
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Number of Days to Complete Emergence
The results in Table 2, shows that there were highly significant statistical
differences observed among the various media used in the study affecting the number of
days to complete emergence. The results showed that the seed sown in garden soil + coco
coir dust + alnus compost + sand had the least number of days to complete emergence
with a mean of 19.33 days. This was followed by seeds sown in coco coir dust + alnus
compost + sand but are statistically comparable with the seeds sown in garden soil + coco
coir dust + sand, garden soil + alnus compost and the control. While the seeds sown in
garden soil + coco coir dust attained the longest number of days to complete emergence
with a mean of 22. 67 days.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
17
Table 2. Number of days to complete emergence
TREATMENT
NUMBER OF DAYS
Garden soil (control)
20.67bcd
Garden soil + coco coir dust
22.67a
Garden soil + alnus compost
20.67bcd
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
22.33ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
21.33abc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
20.00cd
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
19.67cd
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
19.33d
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
The result implies that a mixture of garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
+ sand induced shorter days as far as complete emergence is concerned.
The result corroborates with the findings of Ngalides (2009) that using garden
soil, sawdust, alnus compost and coco coir dust will enhance complete seedling
emergence of avocado seeds.
Percentage of Emergence
Table 3 reveals that there were significant statistical differences on the percentage
of emergence of tamarillo seeds as affected by the different growing media. The result
shows that the seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
attained the highest percentage of seedling emergence with a mean of 96.67% emergence
but are not statistically different with the seeds sown in the media combinations of garden
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
18
Table 3. Percentage of emergence
TREATMENT
PERCENTAGE
Garden soil (control)
96.33ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust
66.67c
Garden soil + alnus compost
93.33ab
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
76.67bc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
93.33ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
83.33abc
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
86.67ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
96.67a
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
soil, garden soil + alnus compost, garden soil + alnus compost + coco coir coir dust, and
coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand. While the seed sown in garden soil + coco coir
dust had the lowest percentage of seedling emergence with a mean of 66.67% emergence.
The result implies that a mixture of garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
+ sand could enhance higher percentage emergence of tamarillo seeds.
As previously mentioned, the result corroborates with the findings of Ngalides
(2009) that using garden soil, sawdust, alnus compost and coco coir dust will enhance
higher percentage of seedling emergence of avocado seeds.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
19
Percentage of Normal Seedling
With regards to the percentage of normal seedlings, there were highly significant
statistical differences that were observed as shown in Table 4. The result showed that the
seeds sown in garden soil + alnus compost attained the highest percentage of normal
seedlings with a mean of 90.00%. It was followed by the seeds sown in garden soil +
coco coir dust + alnus compost, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
with means of 86.67% but are statistically comparable also with the seeds sown using
coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand, and the control. While the seeds sown in garden
soil + coco coir dust had the lowest percentage of normal seedlings with a mean of 30%.
Table 4. Percentage of normal seedlings
TREATMENT
PERCENTAGE
Garden soil (control)
80.00ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust
30.00c
Garden soil + alnus compost
90.00a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
60.00b
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
86.67a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
36.67c
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
83.33a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
86.67a
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
20
The result revealed that a mixture of garden soil + alnus compost promoted higher
percentage of normal seedlings. And as stated by Laurie (1956), the incorporation of
organic matters in the soil is very important especially to horticultural crops that they
may enhance the growth of the crops.
Number of Days to First Appearance of Leaves
As present in Table 5, there were no statistical differences observed among the
media used in the study. However, numerical figures showed that seeds sown in media
composition using garden soil, garden soil + alnus compost, garden soil + coco coir dust
+ sand, coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus
compost + sand had the shortest number of days to leaf development within 22.00 days.
While the seeds sown in coco coir dust + alnus compost had higher number of days to
first appearance of leaves with a mean of 24.67 days.
The results show that among the treatments used, seeds of tamarillo could be
sown in any of the media combination used in the study if the number of days to first
appearance of leaves is to be considered.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
21
Table 5. Number of days to first appearance of leaves
TREATMENT
NUMBER OF DAYS
Garden soil (control)
22.00a
Garden soil + coco coir dust
24.00a
Garden soil + alnus compost
22.00a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
24.67a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
23.33a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
22.00a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
22.00a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
22.00a
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Growth Increment
Table 6 shows highly significant statistical differences observed among the media
used regarding the weekly growth increment. Statistical results showed that seeds sown
in garden soil + alnus compost attained the highest weekly growth increment with a mean
of 8.17 cm. It was followed by seeds sown in garden soil with a mean of 6.00 cm. It was
then followed further by seeds sown in coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand, coco coir
dust + alnus compost, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost having means of
4.87, 4.47 and 4.30, respectively. While the seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir dust
had the lowest weekly growth increment with a mean of 2.47 cm.
The result implies that mixture of garden soil + alnus compost promoted good
germination of tamarillo seeds in terms of weekly growth increment. Likewise, the same
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
22
Table 6. Growth increment
TREATMENT
GROWTH INCREMENT
(cm)
Garden soil (control)
6.00b
Garden soil + coco coir dust
2.47e
Garden soil + alnus compost
8.17a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
4.47cd
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
4.30cd
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
2.50e
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
4.87bc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
3.35de
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
observation agrees with the findings of Gawaban (1999) that a media 1:1:1 alnus,
compost and garden soil, significantly improved the vegetative growth of impatiens and
produced taller plants.
Seedling Height at 60 Days from Seedling Emergence
The results in Table 7.a. shows that there were highly significant differences
observed among the media used in the study affecting seedling height at 60 days from
seedling emergence. Statistically, the results showed that seeds sown in garden soil +
alnus compost obtained the highest mean of 9.13 cm. This was followed by seeds sown in
garden soil only with a mean of 7.57 cm. It was followed further by seeds sown in garden
soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost having a mean of 5.97 cm and the seeds sown in
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
23
Table 7.a. Seedling height at 60 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENTS
HEIGHT
(cm)
Garden soil (control)
7.57b
Garden soil + coco coir dust
3.23e
Garden soil + alnus compost
9.13a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
5.15cd
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
5.97c
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
3.00e
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
4.53d
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
5.55cd
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand with a mean of 5.55 cm. While the
seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir dust + sand had the lowest mean of 2.98 cm.
The results agree with the findings of Gawaban (1999) that a media 1:1:1 alnus,
compost and garden soil, significantly improved the vegetative growth of impatiens and
produced taller plants. Figure 2 shows an over view of the study 60 days from seedling
emergence.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
24
Figure 2. Overview of the study 60 days from seedling emergence
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
25
Seedling Height at 90 Days from Seedling Emergence
There were highly significant statistical differences observed among the media
used in the study affecting seedling height at 90 days from seedling emergence (Table
7.b.). The results showed that seeds sown in garden soil + alnus compost obtained the
highest mean of 11.83 cm. This was followed by seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir
dust + alnus compost, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand with
means of 7.77 cm, 7.50 cm and 7.38 cm, respectively. While the seeds sown in garden
soil + coco coir dust had the lowest mean of 3.93 cm. As previously stated, the result
corroborates with the findings of Gawaban (1999) that a media 1:1:1 alnus, compost and
garden soil, significantly improved the vegetative growth of impatiens and produced
taller plants.
Table 7.b. Seedling height at 90 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
HEIGHT
(cm)
Garden soil (control)
9.80b
Garden soil + coco coir dust
3.93d
Garden soil + alnus compost
11.83a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
7.50c
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
7.77c
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
4.25d
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
6.95c
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
7.38c
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
26
Number of Leaves at 60 days from Seedling Emergence
There were highly significant statistical differences that were observed in Table
8.a. among the media used that affected the number of leaves 60 days from seedling
emergence. The results showed that the seeds sown in garden soil + alnus compost had
the highest number of leaves with a mean of 5.17. This was followed by seeds sown
using garden soil with a mean of 5.00. All the other seeds sown in the various media had
a number of leaves ranging from more than 2 to 4 on 60 days from seedling emergence.
While the seeds sown in coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand obtained the lowest
number of leaves with a mean of 2.17.
Table 8.a. Number of leaves at 60 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
NUMBER OF LEAVES
Garden soil (control)
5.00ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust
3.33cde
Garden soil + alnus compost
5.17a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
3.63bcd
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
4.50abc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
2.67de
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
2.17e
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
3.83abcd
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
27
Number of Leaves at 90 days from Seedling Emergence
As shown in Table 8.b., there were highly significant statistical differences that
were observed among the media used that affected the number of leaves 90 days from
seedling emergence. The results showed that the seeds sown in garden soil + alnus
compost had the highest number of leaves with a mean of 6.00, but one not statistically
different with the control. All the other seeds produce leaves ranging from 3 to 5 on 90
days from seedling emergence. While the seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir dust
attained the lowest number of leaves with a mean 3.67.
Table 8.b. Number of leaves at 90 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
NUMBER OF LEAVES
Garden soil (control)
5.17ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust
3.67c
Garden soil + alnus compost
6.00a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
4.67bc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
4.67bc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
4.17bc
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
3.83c
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
4.50bc
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
28
Seedling Vigor
Table 9 shows that there were highly significant statistical differences observed
among the media used in the study affecting the seedling vigor of tamarillo seedlings.
The result revealed that the seeds sown in garden soil + alnus compost had the highest
rating with a mean of 1.33. It was followed by seeds sown in coco coir dust + alnus
compost + sand, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand having identical
means of 2.67. While the seeds sown in a mixture of garden soil + coco coir dust, and
garden soil + coco coir dust + sand had the lowest rating with a mean of 3.67.
The result corroborates with the findings of Gawaban (1999) that a media 1:1:1
alnus, compost and garden soil, significantly improved the vegetative growth of
impatiens and produced taller plants.
On the other hand, Handreck (1993) enumerated the advantages of coco coir dust
over peat moss including the chemical properties. The electrical conductivity of 250
uS/cm is so high for vegetables like cabbage compared to the ideal electrical conductivity
of 2 to 3. The excessive salts present in the media of 250, 000 milligrams per kilo of coco
coir dust may be toxic to cabbage seedlings especially that the pH is strongly acidic.
Moreover, coco coir dust may be deficient from nitrogen element as almost all the
seedlings show nitrogen deficiency in which the green leaves becoming yellow, bronzed,
pink or purple as they age (purple tinge on old leaves) described by Scaife and Turner
(1983). However, the results showed that seeds sown in garden soil, garden soil + alnus
compost, garden soil + coco coir dust + sand, coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand, and
garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand had the shortest number of days to
leaf development.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
29
Table 9. Seedling vigor
TREATMENT
SEEDLING VIGOR
Garden soil (control)
2.33c
Garden soil + coco coir dust
3.67a
Garden soil + alnus compost
1.33d
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
3.33ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
3.33ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
3.67a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
2.67bc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
2.67bc
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Rating Description
1 most vigorous – excellent growth with dark green leaves
2 vigorous – good growth with green leaves
3 less vigorous – slightly good growth with light green leaves
4 poor – poor growth with yellow leaves
Transplanting Age
The data in Table 10 shows that there were highly significant differences
observed among the treatments with regards to age of transplanting. The results showed
that the seeds sown in garden soil, garden soil + alnus compost, coco coir dust + alnus
compost + sand and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand attained the
shortest days for transplanting age with a mean of 75.33 days. While the seeds sown in
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
30
Table 10. Transplanting age
TREATMENT
AGE
Garden soil (control)
75.33c
Garden soil + coco coir dust
111.33a
Garden soil + alnus compost
75.33c
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
92.67b
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
92.67b
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
111.33a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
75.33c
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
75.33c
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
garden soil + coco coir dust, and garden soil + coco coir dust + sand had the longest days
for transplanting age with a mean of 111.33 days.
The result implies that using garden soil, alnus compost, coco coir dust, and sand
will enhance shorter duration and readiness for transplanting of tamarillo seedlings.
Figure 3 shows the overview of the seedlings ready for transplanting 90 days from
seedling emergence.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
31
Figure 3. Overview of the seedlings ready for transplanting 90 days from seedling
emergence.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
32
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study was conducted at the Pomology project, Benguet State University from
the month of November 2009 to February 2010 to determine the best growing media that
will promote/enhance seed germination and seedling emergence of tamarillo seeds and to
find out the effects of the different growing media on the seedling and growth of
tamarillo grown from seeds.
Significant differences were not observed on the number of days to seed
germination, and number of days to first appearance of leaves. While significant
differences were only observed regarding the percentage of emergence. Highly
significant differences was also observed on the Number of days to complete emergence,
Percentage of normal seedlings, Growth increment, Seedling height at 60 and 90 days
from seedling emergence, Number of leaves at 60 and 90 days from seedling emergence,
seedling vigor and transplanting age. The results revealed that the media mixture differed
much in their effects on the tamarillo seed germination including seedling growth.
The seeds sown in garden soil as the control, garden soil + alnus compost, garden
soil + coco coir dust + sand, coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand, and garden soil +
coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand were the earlier seedlings to emerge and had the
shortest number of days to leaf development. The mixture of garden soil + coco coir dust
+ alnus compost + sand had the least number of days to complete emergence of the seeds.
Meanwhile, a mixture of garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand could
enhance good emergence of tamarillo seeds. The combination of garden soil + alnus
compost attained the highest percentage of normal seedlings. Furthermore garden mixture
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
33
of soil + alnus compost attained the highest weekly growth increment, highest seedling
height at 60 and 90 days from seedling emergence, highest number of leaves 60 and 90
days, and highest rating for seedling vigor.
Lastly the seeds sown in garden soil, garden soil + alnus compost, coco coir dust
+ alnus compost + sand, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
enhanced shorter duration and readiness for transplanting of tamarillo seedlings.
Conclusions
Based from all the results that was observed, the use of 1:1 garden soil + alnus
compost can be used as a media in germinating tamarillo seeds. This can promote higher
percentage of normal seedlings, enhances good weekly growth increment, seedling
height, more number of leaves, and induced the growth of more vigorous seedlings
having excellent growth with dark green leaves. On the other hand, coco coir dust had
side effects on the growth of tamarillo seedlings where the leaves of tamarillo seedlings
became yellow and with stunted growth.
Recommendations
From the preceding results and discussions, the combination of garden soil and
alnus compost is recommended as a growing media to be used in germinating tamarillo
seeds. The use of undecompose coco coir dust should be avoided as this material seems
to affect the normality of seedlings and seedling growth as well.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
34
LITERATURE CITED
AGNAYA, J. C. 2004. Effect of cold stratification perion on the germination of Benguet
wild tea. BS Thesis. Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet. pp. 3-4.
ANDRES, R. S. 2006. Growth and flowering of angel’s wing (Spathiphylum kochi L.)
as affected by different potting media mixtures. BS Thesis. Benguet State
University, La Trinidad, Benguet. p. 26.
ANTONIO, T. D. 2000. Effect of horticultural perlite on the growth, flowering, quality
and cut flower yield of potted anthurium ‘Kansako’. BS Thesis. Benguet State
University, La Trinidad, Benguet. pp. 3, 6.
ASPILAN, A. F. 1998. Improvement in the germinability of carrot (Caocac carota L.)
seed by sea water pre-sowing treatment. BS Thesis. Benguet State University, La
Trinidad, Benguet. p. 3.
BISLEY, M. B. 2008. Germination of papaya (Carica papaya) seeds and seedling
characteristics as affected by different growing media in Camp 3, Tuba, Benguet.
BS Thesis. Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet. pp. 16-28.
CHRISTOPHER, E. P. 1958. Introductory Horticulture. Mcgraw-Hill Book Company.
New York, U. S. A. p. 90.
DONAHUE, R. L. 1971. An Introduction to Soils and Plant Growth. Third Edition.
Prentice Hall Inc. New Jersey. pp. 483-484.
FACCIOLA, S. 1990. Cornucopia: A Source Book of Edible Plants. Kampong
Publications. pp. 204-208.
GAWABAN, J. B. 1999. Response of containers grown impatients sultanii to different
potting media. BS Thesis. Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet. p. 18.
HANDRECK, K. A. 1993. Properties of coir dust, and its use in the formulation of
soilless potting media. Community Soil and Plant Analysis. 24: 349-363.
HANDRECK, K. A. and N. P. BLACK. 1994. Properties of Coir Dust, and Its Use in the
Formulation of Soil less potting media. Community Soil and Plant Analysis. 24:
349-363.
LAURIE, A. D. 1956. Commercial Flower Forcing. 6th ed. New York, Toronto,
London. Mcgraw-Hill Publication in Agricultural Science.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
35
NGALIDES, E. A. 2009. Germination of avocado (Persea americana) seeds and seedling
characteristics as affected by different growing media. BS Thesis. Benguet State
University, La Trinidad, Benguet.
SCAIFE, A. and M. TURNER. 1983. Diagnosis of Mineral Disorder in Plants. Volume 2:
Vegetables. London. Ministry of Agriculture and Food/ Agricultural Research
Council. pp. 21-22.
THOMPSON, L. M. and F. R. TROECH. 1978. Soils and Soil Fertility. 4th ed. McGraw-
Hill, Inc. New York. p. 232.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
36
APPENDICES
Appendix Table 1. Number of days to initial emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
17
17
17
51
17a
T2
19
17
20
56
18.67a
T3
17
17
17
51
17a
T4
19
19
17
55
18.33a
T5
19
17
17
53
17.67a
T6
17
17
17
51
17a
T7
17
17
17
51
17a
T8
17
17
17
51
17a
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
1.083
0.542
Treatment
7
9.958
1.423
2.23ns
2.77
4.28
Error
14
8.917
0.637
Total
23
19.958
ns - not significant
Coefficient of variation = 4.57%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
37
Appendix Table 2. Number of days to complete emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
22
20
20
62
20.67bcd
T2
24
21
23
68
22.67a
T3
21
21
20
62
20.67bcd
T4
23
23
21
67
22.33ab
T5
24
19
21
64
21.33abc
T6
21
19
20
60
20.00cd
T7
20
20
19
59
19.67cd
T8
20
19
19
58
19.33d
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
13.083
6.542
Treatment
7
30.667
4.381
4.5153**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
13.583
0.970
Total
23
57.333
**Highly significant
Coefficient of variation = 4.73%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
38
Appendix Table 3. Percentage of emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
100
100
80
280
93.33ab
T2
60
70
70
200
66.67c
T3
90
100
90
280
93.33ab
T4
70
80
80
230
76.67bc
T5
100
90
90
280
93.33ab
T6
70
90
90
250
83.33abc
T7
70
90
100
260
86.67ab
T8
100
90
100
290
96.67a
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
175.000
87.500
Treatment
7
2229.167
318.452
3.8489*
2.77
4.28
Error
14
1158.333
82.738
Total
23
3562.500
*Significant
Coefficient of variation = 10.55%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
39
Appendix Table 4. Percentage of normal seedlings
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
70
80
90
240
80ab
T2
30
40
20
90
30c
T3
90
100
80
270
90a
T4
70
50
60
180
60b
T5
80
90
90
260
86.67a
T6
40
50
20
110
36.67c
T7
60
90
100
250
83.33a
T8
70
90
100
260
86.67a
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
408.333
204.167
Treatment
7
12116.667 1730.952 10.7306**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
2258.333 161.310
Total
23
14783.333
**Highly significant
Coefficient of variation = 18.63 %
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
40
Appendix Table 5. Number of days to first appearance of leaves
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
22
22
22
66
22a
T2
25
22
25
72
24a
T3
22
22
22
66
22a
T4
26
26
22
74
24.67a
T5
26
22
22
70
23.33a
T6
22
22
22
66
22a
T7
22
22
22
66
22a
T8
22
22
22
66
22a
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
4.750
2.375
Treatment
7
25.167
3.595
2.23ns
2.77
4.28
Error
14
22.583
1.613
Total
23
52.500
ns - not significant
Coefficient of variation = 5.58%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
41
Appendix Table 6. Growth increment
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
5.55
6.55
5.9
18
6b
T2
1.95
2.75
2.7
7.40
2.47a
T3
9.5
7.7
7.3
24.50
8.17cd
T4
4.75
4.05
4.6
13.40
4.47cd
T5
4.15
5
3.75
12.90
4.30e
T6
3.35
1.95
2.2
7.50
2.50e
T7
4.66
4.6
5.35
14.61
4.87bc
T8
3.55
2.85
3.65
10.05
3.35de
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
0.337
0.168
Treatment
7
75.983
10.855
24.2922**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
6.256
0.447
Total
23
82.575
**Highly significant
Coefficient of variation = 14.81%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
42
Appendix Table 7.a. Seedling height at 60 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
6.9
7.7
8.1
27.70
7.57b
T2
3
3.4
3.3
9.70
3.23e
T3
8.2
10.1
9.1
27.40
9.13a
T4
6.3
4.3
4.85
15.45
5.15cd
T5
6.2
5.5
6.2
17.90
5.97c
T6
3.15
2.8
3
8.95
2.98e
T7
5.1
4.15
4.35
13.60
4.53d
T8
5.6
5.55
5.5
16.65
5.55cd
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
0.071
0.036
Treatment
7
90.657
12.951
32.3861**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
5.599
0.400
Total
23
96.327
**Highly significant Coefficient of variation = 11.47%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
43
Appendix Table 7.b. Seedling height at 90 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
9.85
9.8
9.75
29.40
9.80b
T2
3.55
3.95
4.3
11.80
3.93d
T3
11.65
12.5
11.35
35.50
11.83a
T4
8.4
6.8
7.3
22.50
7.50c
T5
7.8
7.6
7.9
23.30
7.77c
T6
4.6
4.05
4.1
12.75
4.25d
T7
6.7
6.75
7.4
20.85
6.95c
T8
7.7
7.1
7.35
22.15
7.38c
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
0.181
0.09
Treatment
7
143.088
20.441
99.5108**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
2.876
0.205
Total
23
146.145
**Highly significant Coefficient of variation = 6.10%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
44
Appendix Table 8.a. Number of leaves at 60 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
5
5
5
15
5ab
T2
3
3
4
10
3.33cde
T3
5
5.5
5
15.50
5.16a
T4
5
2.4
3.5
10.90
3.63bcd
T5
5
4
4.5
13.50
4.50abc
T6
2
4
2
8.00
2.66de
T7
2.5
2
2
6.50
2.16e
T8
4
3.5
4
11.50
3.83abcd
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
0.292
0.146
Treatment
7
23.986
3.427
6.4414**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
7.447
0.532
Total
23
31.726
**Highly significant
Coefficient of variation = 19.26%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
45
Appendix Table 8.b. Number of leaves at 90 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
6
4.5
5
15.50
5.17ab
T2
3
3.5
4.5
11.00
3.67c
T3
6
6
6
18.00
6.00a
T4
5
4.5
4.5
14.00
4.67bc
T5
5
4.5
4.5
14.00
4.67bc
T6
4.5
4
4
12.50
4.17bc
T7
3
3.5
5
11.50
3.83c
T8
5
4
4.5
13.50
4.50bc
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
0.896
0.448
Treatment
7
11.833
1.690
5.1403**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
4.604
0.329
Total
23
17.333
**Highly significant Coefficient of variation = 12.51%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
46
Appendix Table 9. Seedling vigor
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
2
3
2
7
2.33c
T2
3
4
4
11
3.67a
T3
1
2
1
4
1.33d
T4
3
4
3
10
3.33ab
T5
3
3
4
10
3.33ab
T6
3
4
4
11
3.67a
T7
2
3
3
8
2.67bc
T8
2
3
3
8
2.67bc
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
3.250
1.625
Treatment
7
13.292
1.899
12.7600**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
2.083
0.149
Total
23
18.625
**Highly significant
Coefficient of variation = 13.42%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
47
Appendix Table 10. Transplanting age
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
72
77
77
226
75.33c
T2
77
108
113
334
111.33a
T3
113
72
77
226
75.33c
T4
91
96
91
278
92.67b
T5
91
91
96
278
92.67b
T6
108
113
113
334
111.33a
T7
72
77
77
226
75.33c
T8
72
77
77
226
75.33c
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
39.583
19.792
Treatment
7
5312.000
758.857 113.3227**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
93.750
6.696
Total
23
5445.333
**Highly significant
Coefficient of variation = 2.92%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
WASING, DEVENS T. APRIL 2010. Seedling Emergence and Growth of
Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by Different Growing Media.
Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet.
Adviser: Franklin G. Bawang, MSc.
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted at Pomology project, Benguet State University from
November 2009 to February 2010 to determine the best growing media that will
promote/enhance seed germination and seedling emergence of tamarillo seeds and to find
out the effects of the different media and the seedling growth of tamarillo grown from
seeds.
Results revealed that there were significant differences observed among the
different media used. The seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost +
sand had the least number of days to complete emergence with a mean of 19.33 days.
Furthermore seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand attained
the highest percentage of seedling emergence with a mean of 96.67%. With regards to the
percentage of normal seedlings, the seeds sown in garden soil + alnus compost attained
the highest percentage of normal seedlings with a mean of 90.00%. Likewise, seeds sown
in the media garden soil + alnus compost attained significant results in terms of: weekly
growth increment with a mean of 8.17 cm; the seedling height at 60 days from seedling
emergence with a mean of 9.13 cm; the seedling height at 90 days from seedling
emergence with a mean of 11.83 cm; the number of leaves 60 days from seedling
emergence with a mean of 5.17; the number of leaves 90 days from seedling emergence
with a mean of 6.00; and for seedling vigor having the most vigorous and excellent
growth with dark green leaves. Meanwhile, the seeds sown in garden soil, garden soil +
alnus compost, coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand and garden soil + coco coir dust +
alnus compost + sand attained the shortest days for transplanting age with a mean of
75.33 days.
ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
i
Abstract………. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
i
Table of Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
iii
INTRODUCTION
Nature of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1
Importance of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2
Objectives of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Place and Time of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Description of Tamarillo Fruit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Seed Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Growing Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Climatic and Soil Adaptability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9
Propagation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11
Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11
Data Gathered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Number of Days to Initial
Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15
iii
Number of Days to
Complete Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
Percentage of Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17
Percentage of Normal
Seedlings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19
Number of Days to First
Appearance of Leaves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20
Growth Increment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21
Seedling Height at 60 Days
from Seedling Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22
Seedling Height at 90 Days
from Seedling Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25
Number of Leaves at 60 Days
from Seedling Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26
Number of Leaves at 90 Days
from Seedling Emergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27
Seedling Vigor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28
Transplanting Age . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
29
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS
AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
32
Conclusions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
33
Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
33
LITERATURE CITED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
34
APPENDICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
36
iv
1
INTRODUCTION
The tamarillo is the edible fruit of Solanum betaceum L, a species of small tree or
shrub in the flowering plant family Solanaceae. It is egg-shaped, with a thin deep red or
yellow skin and a soft flesh (when ripe), with dark-colored seeds occupying about one
third of the interior.
The tamarillo is generally believed to be native to the Andes of Peru and probably
also, Chile, Ecuador and Bolivia. It is cultivated and naturalized in Argentina, Brazil,
Colombia and Venezuela. It is widely grown in New Zealand as a commercial crop. Seed
from Argentina were imported by the U. S. Dept. of Agriculture in 1913 and such plant
was fruiting at the Plant Introduction Station at Chico, Calif. in1915.
Prior to 1967, the tamarillo was known as the “tree tomato” in New Zealand, but a
new name was chosen by the New Zealand Tree Tomato Promotions Council in order to
distinguish it from the ordinary garden tomato and increase its exotic appeal. The choice
is variously explained by similarity to the word “tomato”, the Spanish word “Amarillo”,
meaning yellow, and a variation on the Maori word “tama”, for leadership”. It is still
called Tree Tomato in most of the world.
The fruit is eaten by scooping the flesh from a halved fruit, but in New Zealand
children palpate the ripe fruit until it is soft then bite off the stem end and squeeze the
flesh directly into the mouths. When lightly sugared and cooled, the flesh makes a
refreshing breakfast dish. In addition, they give a unique flavor when added to stews,
hollandaise, chutneys, and curries. They are also tasty and decorative in, for example,
radicchio salads. Appetizing desserts using this fruit include bavarois and combined with
apples in a strudel. In Colombia, Ecuador and Sumatra, fresh tamarillos are frequently
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
2
blended together with water and sugar to make a juice. It is also available as a
commercially pasteurized puree.
In country where tamarillo is a popular food item, it is made into mousse, jam,
jelly, chutney, and added to ice cream and yogurt, baked, and cooked as a substitute for
tomato. Filipinos know Spanish tomato only as a fresh fruit but due to its natural tartness,
consumption is limited. As such, during its peak production months from July to October,
much of the fruit are not disposed off by local fruit stands there by limiting market
expansion of tamarillo production.
Tamarillo are nutrient-packed with protein, fiber, nitrogen calcium, phosphorous,
iron, carotene, thiamine, riboflavin and ascorbic acid among others based on chemical
analysis in Ecuador, Guatemala and India and also by the Food and Nutrition Research
Center-National Institute of Science and Technology.
Tamarillo fruit can be potentially grown in backyard for availability and use.
However, mass production could be a problem under high demand because it is not much
popular in the locality specially for processing. So, it is therefore imperative to conduct
this study to be able to determine the best growing media that is suitable for growing
tamarillos.
The result of this study will provide information to researchers interested to work
on tamarillo fruit in order to help in the improvement of tamarillo fruit production and to
encourage farmers or fruit growers to produce tamarillo fruit due to its good potential in
the market especially when it is processed. Since tamarillo fruit is not much popular in
terms of production, this study is important as far as introduction is concerned.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
3
The study was conducted to determine the best growing media that will
promote/enhance seed germination and seedling emergence of tamarillo seeds; to find out
the effects of the different growing media on the seedling and growth of tamarillo grown
from seeds.
The study was conducted at the Pomology Project, Benguet State University, La
Trinidad, Benguet from November 2009 to February 2010.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
4
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Description of Tamarillo Fruit
The tamarillo is small, attractive, half-woody, evergreen or partially deciduous,
shrub or small tree. It is also brittle and shallow-rooted, growing to a height of 10 to 18 ft.
The alternate, evergreen leaves are muskily odorous and more or less heart-shaped at the
base and ovate, pointed at the apex. They are 4 to 13 ½ inches long and 1 ½ to 4 ¾ inches
broad, thin softly hairy, with conspicuous veins. The leaves are fairy easily tattered by
strong winds. The fragrant ½ to ¾ inch flowers are borne in small, loose clusters near the
branch tips. They have 5 pale pink or lavender, pointed lobes, 5 prominent yellow
stamens and green-purple calyx. Tamarillo flowers are normally self-pollinating. If wind
is completely cut off so as not to stir branches, this may adversely affect pollination
unless there are bees to transfer the pollen. Unpollinated flowers will drop prematurely.
Flowers are usually borne in late summer or fall, but may appear at any time. The long-
stalked, dangling fruit, borne singly or in clusters of 3 to 12, is smooth egg-shaped but
pointed at the both ends. It ranges in size from 2 to 4 inches long and 1 ½ to 2 inches in
width. Skin color may be solid deep purple, blood red, orange or yellow, or red and
yellow, and may have faint dark longitudinal stripes. Flesh color varies accordingly from
orange-red or orange to yellow or cream yellow. While the skin is somewhat tough and
unpleasant in flavor, the outer layer of the flesh is slightly firm, succulent and bland, and
the pulp surrounding the seed in two lengthwise compartments is soft, juicy, and sweet.
The yellow types are usually a little sweeter. The pulp is black in dark purple and red
fruits and yellow in yellow and orange fruit. The edible seeds are thin, nearly flat,
circular, larger and harder than those of the true tomato (Facciola, 1990).
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
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Seed Emergence
The seed is the most important stage in the life cycle of the higher seed producing
plants with respect to survival of species (Antolin, 2001 as cited by Agnaya, 2004).
Aspilan (1998) stated that seedling establishment is a critical phase in the
production cycle of crops. Seedling uniformity and percentage emergence of direct
seeded crops have great importance on the final yield and quality.
The same author stated that a production cycle should have yield of high quality
products. Germination of seeds must be rapid and uniform under environmental and
biological stresses; however, it can affect germination and seedling growth. Seed
germination involves complex mechanism and processes many of which are only
partially revealed and understood.
Growing Media
The actual nutrient requirements of horticultural crops are based on several
parameters. They include soil diagnosis to determine the total nutrients, the available
nutrients and the factors contributing to a nutrient unavailability and plant diagnosis to
determine the actual amount of nutrients absorbed by the plant. Together, these are
correlated to establish a relationship between development and the nutrients
concentration of the plant tissue as influenced by the leaves of various nutrients in the
soil (Poincelot, 1980).
Brady (1984) as cited by Andres (2006) stated that the organic matter is
composed of living or dead plants and animal residues, which are very active and
important portion of the soilage. They protect soil against erosion; supplies cementing
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
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6
substance for desirable aggregation formation and is loosen the soil to provide better
aeration and water movement.
Organic matter has several functions as stated by Donahue (1971). The same
author (Donahue, 1971) stated that coarse organic matter on the surfaces reduces the
impact of falling raindrops and permits clear water to seep gently into the soil. Surface
run-off and erosion are thus reduced, and as a result, there is more available water for
plant growth. A fresh organic mailer provides food for such soil life like earthworms, ant
and rodents. These animals help to permit plants not to obtain oxygen to release carbon
dioxide as they grow. Organic mulches also reduce the evaporation losses of water. As
organic matter decomposes, it supplies some nutrients needed by the growing plants.
These nutrients are in harmony with the needs of the plant. When the environmental
conditions are favorable for rapid growth, the same conditions favor a rapid release of
nutrients from the organic matter. As organic matter contains a large part of the total
reserves of Boron (B) and Molybdenum (Mo), 5 to 60% of the phosphorous reserves, up
to 80% of the Sulfur and practically all of the Nitrogen. A soil with high organic matter
has more available water capacity for plant growth than the same soil with less organic
matter. Humus, a decomposed organic matter provides a store house for exchangeable
and available cat ions: K, Ca and Mg are temporary. Humus holds ammonium ions in an
exchangeable available form.
Jankowiak (1978) as cited by Andres (2006), stated that compost encourages the
formation of vigorous roots, which in turn produce a healthy plant which is capable of
taking in more food and water.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
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Thompson and Troech (1978) claimed that the nutrients release from well rotten
compost is probably better balanced and regulated than the fresh manure whereby
gardeners can therefore apply larger amounts of compost than the use of fresh manure,
without danger of injuring plants. They added that the use of compost also results in
humus formation and promotes good soil structure. Composts also supply nutrients such
as nitrogen, phosphorous and sulfur which are essential for plant growth.
Since about 1990, the use of coir dust is dramatically increasing. Coir dust is the
pithy materials left after coir fiber is extracted from coconut husks. It is produced in Sri
Lanka, Indonesia, Philippines and potentially in other tropical countries with extensive
coconut plantations. Coir dust is being dried and often compressed in block before being
exported. It has excellent physical properties and does not suffer from the water-
repellency problems of other organic materials. Its water holding characteristics are better
than most peats because of its finer pore structure. Coir dust main potential use is
increasing the water holding capacity of barks and saw dust without unacceptable
reduction in air-filled porosity. All coir products have a very high potassium contents and
very low calcium contents. Their pH generally close to 6 so there is no possibility of
using liming materials to supply calcium (Handrek and Black, 1993).
Antonio (2000) found that based on the result of his study, the best media
composition is 1:1:1 hortiperl + chopped coconut husk + coco saw dust + dried alnus
leaves compost. It promoted earlier flowering, faster flower development and promoted
higher yield of cut flowers per plant with a Return on Investment (ROI) of 54.52 %. The
author also recommended the use of hortiperl as a component of the growing media for
anthurium production due to the benefits that the growers derived from it. Such as it has
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
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8
good moisture holding capacity, well-drained and aerated, it is sterile and does not
decompose than other potting media used in anthurium farm which have to be
replenished.
On the other hand, Handreck (1993) enumerated the advantages of coco coir dust
over peat moss including the chemical properties. The electrical conductivity of 250
uS/cm is so high for vegetables like cabbage compared to the ideal electrical conductivity
of 2 to 3. The excessive salts present in the media of 250, 000 milligrams per kilo of coco
coir dust may be toxic to cabbage seedlings especially that the pH is strongly acidic.
Moreover, coco coir dust may be deficient from nitrogen element as almost all the
seedlings show nitrogen deficiency in which the green leaves becoming yellow, bronzed,
pink or purple as they age (purple tinge on old leaves) described by Scaife and Turner
(1983).
Manure stimulates the work of soil microbes that unlock plant food held in soil
borne mineral compounds. It adds nutrients and humus to the soil, aids in composting
operations and in its green state will provide heat for cold frames (compositions) as it
decomposes. Lastly, it improves the physical condition of heavy soil (Jankowiak, 1978).
Foth and Turk (1972) a cited by Andres (2006) noted that rotten manure is a rich
food constituent. This concentration of plant nutrient is due to shrinkage in dry weight,
which could automatically raise the level of plant food.
Christopher (1958) stated that fresh manure is relatively higher in nitrogen and
potassium than in phosphorous. He further stated that manure may increase water holding
capacity, improve structure and provide a satisfactory medium in which various desirable
bacteria may develop. It supplies many of the chemicals recognized as minor elements
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
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9
and in all probability, some other elements and possibly hormones which is yet to be
recognized.
Laurie (1956) stated that humus increases the power of the soil to hold water
soluble materials in water. Its colloidal properties permit absorption to gases and their
retention. These same colloidal properties improve the structure, making it granular. He
further stated that humus aids in the absorption of gases and their retention of soil heat. It
also makes potassium and phosphorous compounds available through the acids that are
formed in the process of decompositions; soil nitrogen which is normally derived from
the decomposition of humus is helpful in the growth of organisms needed in the soil.
Incorporation of these different organic matters in the soil is very important
especially to horticultural crops that they may enhance the growth of the crops (Laurie,
1956).
Climatic and Soil Adaptability
The tamarillo is a subtropical rather than tropical and flourishes between 5,000 to
10,000 ft. in its Andean homeland. In cooler climates it succeeds at lower elevations, but
does best where the temperature remains above 50 0F. The plant is grown casually in
California and occasionally in Florida. Tamarillos have been successfully grown in such
northern California locations as San Rafael and Santa Rosa. Frost at 28 0F kills small
branches and foliage of mature trees but not the largest branches and main stem. The tree
will recover if such frosts are not prolonged or frequent. However, seedlings and cuttings
are readily killed by frost during their first year.
Protection from wind is necessary as the tree is shallow rooted and easily blown
over. It is also brittle and its branches are easily broken by gusts, especially when laden
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
10
with fruit. Tamarillos have been grown as houseplants for years. They fruit satisfactorily
in northern greenhouses.
Propagation
Seeds and cuttings may be used for propagation. Seeds product a high-branched,
erect tree, while cutting develop into a short, bushy plant with low-lying branches. The
tree does not always come true from seed, but is most likely to if one is careful to take
seed from red fruits with black seed pulp or yellow fruits with yellow seed pulp.
Germination is accelerated by placing washed and dried seed in a freezer for 24 hours
before planting out. Cuttings should be of 1 to 2 year-old wood 3/8 to 1 inch thick and 18
to 30 inches long. The leaves are removed and the base cut square below a node. Cuttings
can be planted directly in the ground, but should not be permitted to fruit the first year.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
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MATERIALS AND METHODS
Materials
To successfully carry-out the activities in this study, the following materials were
used: tamarillo seeds, growing media (sand, garden soil, alnus compost, coco coir dust),
water, ruler polyethylene bags (3” x 5”) and labeling materials.
Methods
Experimental design and treatments. The experiment was laid out using
Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with eight (8) treatments that was
replicated three (3) times. The treatments were as follows:
CODE DESCRIPTION
T1 Garden soil (control)
T2 1:1 garden soil + coco coir dust
T3 1:1 garden soil + alnus compost
T4 1:1 coco coir dust + alnus compost
T5 1:1:1 garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
T6 1:1:1 garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
T7 1:1:1 coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
T8 1:1:1:1 garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus
compost + sand
Figure 1 shows an over view of the experimental area.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
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Figure 1. Over view of the experimental area.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
13
Preparation of growing media. The different growing media were mixed
following the indicated ratio and were placed in the black polyethylene bags (3” x 5”)
where the tamarillo seeds were sown.
Seed extraction. The tamarillo seeds were collected at Bakun, Benguet from a
high yielding mother plant and fully ripe with a color of orange or yellow. The fruit were
cut at the apex and the seeds were extracted and washed in order to have partial removal
of the seeds parchment or mucilage.
Drying duration of seeds. The tamarillo seeds that were extracted were selected at
uniform size and about 240 seeds. The seeds then were air dried for 30 minutes.
Sowing the seeds. Then after 30 minutes drying of tamarillo seeds, these were
sown at horizontal position.
Care and management. The recommended cultural management practices such as
weeding, irrigation and control of insect pests and diseases were followed to insure
excellent emergence performance.
Data Gathered
The data gathered were as follows:
1. Number of days to initial emergence. This was taken by counting the number of
days from sowing of seeds up to initial seedling emergence.
2. Number of days to complete emergence. This was taken by counting the
number of days from sowing of seeds up to complete seedling emergence.
3. Percentage of emergence. This was taken by using the formula:
Emergence percentage = No. of Germinant x 100
Total No. of Seedlings
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
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4. Percentage of normal seedlings. This was taken by using the formula:
% of normal seedlings = No. of Normal Seedlings x 100
Total No. of Seedlings
5. Number of days to first appearance of leaves. This was taken by counting the
number of days from sowing to first appearance of leaves.
6. Growth increment. This was taken weekly until transplanting by measuring the
height of the seedlings from the base up to tip.
7. Seedling height (cm). This was taken from the base up to tip of the seedlings at
60 days and 90 days from seedling emergence.
8. Number of leaves. This was taken by counting the number of leaves at 60 days
and 90 days from seedling emergence.
9. Seedling vigor. This was taken by using the scale sixty days from planting.
Rating Description
1 most vigorous – excellent growth with dark green leaves
2 vigorous – good growth with green leaves
3 less vigorous – slightly good growth with light green leaves
4 poor – poor growth with yellow leaves
10. Transplanting age. This was taken by counting the days from sowing to
transplanting.
11. Documentation of the study through pictures. This was taken during the entire
duration of the study.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
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RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Number of Days to Initial Emergence
As presented in Table 1, there were no significant statistical differences observed
among the different media used in the study on the number of days to initial emergence
of tamarillo seeds. However, the numerical results showed that seeds sown in garden soil
as the control, garden soil + alnus compost, garden soil + coco coir dust + sand, coco coir
dust + alnus compost + sand, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
were the earlier seedlings to emerge with a mean of 17.00 days. This was followed by the
seeds sown in a media combination of garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
having slightly higher number of days to initial emergence. The treatment media of
garden soil + coco coir dust with a mean of 18.67 days was the last to attain initial
emergence.
The results may imply that as to initial emergence, garden soil combined with
alnus compost, coco coir dust, and sand will promote earlier seedling emergence of
tamarillo seeds.
The results agree with the findings of Bisley (2008) that a mixture of 1:1:1:1
garden soil + sand + alnus compost and a part of sawdust induces shorter days for papaya
seedling to emergence.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
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Table 1. Number of days to initial emergence
TREATMENT
NUMBER OF DAYS
Garden soil (control)
17.00a
Garden soil + coco coir dust
18.67a
Garden soil + alnus compost
17.00a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
18.33a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
17.67a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
17.00a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
17.00a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
17.00a
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Number of Days to Complete Emergence
The results in Table 2, shows that there were highly significant statistical
differences observed among the various media used in the study affecting the number of
days to complete emergence. The results showed that the seed sown in garden soil + coco
coir dust + alnus compost + sand had the least number of days to complete emergence
with a mean of 19.33 days. This was followed by seeds sown in coco coir dust + alnus
compost + sand but are statistically comparable with the seeds sown in garden soil + coco
coir dust + sand, garden soil + alnus compost and the control. While the seeds sown in
garden soil + coco coir dust attained the longest number of days to complete emergence
with a mean of 22. 67 days.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
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Table 2. Number of days to complete emergence
TREATMENT
NUMBER OF DAYS
Garden soil (control)
20.67bcd
Garden soil + coco coir dust
22.67a
Garden soil + alnus compost
20.67bcd
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
22.33ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
21.33abc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
20.00cd
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
19.67cd
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
19.33d
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
The result implies that a mixture of garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
+ sand induced shorter days as far as complete emergence is concerned.
The result corroborates with the findings of Ngalides (2009) that using garden
soil, sawdust, alnus compost and coco coir dust will enhance complete seedling
emergence of avocado seeds.
Percentage of Emergence
Table 3 reveals that there were significant statistical differences on the percentage
of emergence of tamarillo seeds as affected by the different growing media. The result
shows that the seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
attained the highest percentage of seedling emergence with a mean of 96.67% emergence
but are not statistically different with the seeds sown in the media combinations of garden
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
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Table 3. Percentage of emergence
TREATMENT
PERCENTAGE
Garden soil (control)
96.33ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust
66.67c
Garden soil + alnus compost
93.33ab
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
76.67bc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
93.33ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
83.33abc
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
86.67ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
96.67a
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
soil, garden soil + alnus compost, garden soil + alnus compost + coco coir coir dust, and
coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand. While the seed sown in garden soil + coco coir
dust had the lowest percentage of seedling emergence with a mean of 66.67% emergence.
The result implies that a mixture of garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
+ sand could enhance higher percentage emergence of tamarillo seeds.
As previously mentioned, the result corroborates with the findings of Ngalides
(2009) that using garden soil, sawdust, alnus compost and coco coir dust will enhance
higher percentage of seedling emergence of avocado seeds.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
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Percentage of Normal Seedling
With regards to the percentage of normal seedlings, there were highly significant
statistical differences that were observed as shown in Table 4. The result showed that the
seeds sown in garden soil + alnus compost attained the highest percentage of normal
seedlings with a mean of 90.00%. It was followed by the seeds sown in garden soil +
coco coir dust + alnus compost, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
with means of 86.67% but are statistically comparable also with the seeds sown using
coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand, and the control. While the seeds sown in garden
soil + coco coir dust had the lowest percentage of normal seedlings with a mean of 30%.
Table 4. Percentage of normal seedlings
TREATMENT
PERCENTAGE
Garden soil (control)
80.00ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust
30.00c
Garden soil + alnus compost
90.00a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
60.00b
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
86.67a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
36.67c
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
83.33a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
86.67a
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
20
The result revealed that a mixture of garden soil + alnus compost promoted higher
percentage of normal seedlings. And as stated by Laurie (1956), the incorporation of
organic matters in the soil is very important especially to horticultural crops that they
may enhance the growth of the crops.
Number of Days to First Appearance of Leaves
As present in Table 5, there were no statistical differences observed among the
media used in the study. However, numerical figures showed that seeds sown in media
composition using garden soil, garden soil + alnus compost, garden soil + coco coir dust
+ sand, coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus
compost + sand had the shortest number of days to leaf development within 22.00 days.
While the seeds sown in coco coir dust + alnus compost had higher number of days to
first appearance of leaves with a mean of 24.67 days.
The results show that among the treatments used, seeds of tamarillo could be
sown in any of the media combination used in the study if the number of days to first
appearance of leaves is to be considered.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
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Table 5. Number of days to first appearance of leaves
TREATMENT
NUMBER OF DAYS
Garden soil (control)
22.00a
Garden soil + coco coir dust
24.00a
Garden soil + alnus compost
22.00a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
24.67a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
23.33a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
22.00a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
22.00a
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
22.00a
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Growth Increment
Table 6 shows highly significant statistical differences observed among the media
used regarding the weekly growth increment. Statistical results showed that seeds sown
in garden soil + alnus compost attained the highest weekly growth increment with a mean
of 8.17 cm. It was followed by seeds sown in garden soil with a mean of 6.00 cm. It was
then followed further by seeds sown in coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand, coco coir
dust + alnus compost, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost having means of
4.87, 4.47 and 4.30, respectively. While the seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir dust
had the lowest weekly growth increment with a mean of 2.47 cm.
The result implies that mixture of garden soil + alnus compost promoted good
germination of tamarillo seeds in terms of weekly growth increment. Likewise, the same
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
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Table 6. Growth increment
TREATMENT
GROWTH INCREMENT
(cm)
Garden soil (control)
6.00b
Garden soil + coco coir dust
2.47e
Garden soil + alnus compost
8.17a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
4.47cd
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
4.30cd
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
2.50e
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
4.87bc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
3.35de
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
observation agrees with the findings of Gawaban (1999) that a media 1:1:1 alnus,
compost and garden soil, significantly improved the vegetative growth of impatiens and
produced taller plants.
Seedling Height at 60 Days from Seedling Emergence
The results in Table 7.a. shows that there were highly significant differences
observed among the media used in the study affecting seedling height at 60 days from
seedling emergence. Statistically, the results showed that seeds sown in garden soil +
alnus compost obtained the highest mean of 9.13 cm. This was followed by seeds sown in
garden soil only with a mean of 7.57 cm. It was followed further by seeds sown in garden
soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost having a mean of 5.97 cm and the seeds sown in
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
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Table 7.a. Seedling height at 60 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENTS
HEIGHT
(cm)
Garden soil (control)
7.57b
Garden soil + coco coir dust
3.23e
Garden soil + alnus compost
9.13a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
5.15cd
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
5.97c
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
3.00e
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
4.53d
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
5.55cd
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand with a mean of 5.55 cm. While the
seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir dust + sand had the lowest mean of 2.98 cm.
The results agree with the findings of Gawaban (1999) that a media 1:1:1 alnus,
compost and garden soil, significantly improved the vegetative growth of impatiens and
produced taller plants. Figure 2 shows an over view of the study 60 days from seedling
emergence.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
24
Figure 2. Overview of the study 60 days from seedling emergence
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
25
Seedling Height at 90 Days from Seedling Emergence
There were highly significant statistical differences observed among the media
used in the study affecting seedling height at 90 days from seedling emergence (Table
7.b.). The results showed that seeds sown in garden soil + alnus compost obtained the
highest mean of 11.83 cm. This was followed by seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir
dust + alnus compost, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand with
means of 7.77 cm, 7.50 cm and 7.38 cm, respectively. While the seeds sown in garden
soil + coco coir dust had the lowest mean of 3.93 cm. As previously stated, the result
corroborates with the findings of Gawaban (1999) that a media 1:1:1 alnus, compost and
garden soil, significantly improved the vegetative growth of impatiens and produced
taller plants.
Table 7.b. Seedling height at 90 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
HEIGHT
(cm)
Garden soil (control)
9.80b
Garden soil + coco coir dust
3.93d
Garden soil + alnus compost
11.83a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
7.50c
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
7.77c
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
4.25d
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
6.95c
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
7.38c
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
26
Number of Leaves at 60 days from Seedling Emergence
There were highly significant statistical differences that were observed in Table
8.a. among the media used that affected the number of leaves 60 days from seedling
emergence. The results showed that the seeds sown in garden soil + alnus compost had
the highest number of leaves with a mean of 5.17. This was followed by seeds sown
using garden soil with a mean of 5.00. All the other seeds sown in the various media had
a number of leaves ranging from more than 2 to 4 on 60 days from seedling emergence.
While the seeds sown in coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand obtained the lowest
number of leaves with a mean of 2.17.
Table 8.a. Number of leaves at 60 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
NUMBER OF LEAVES
Garden soil (control)
5.00ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust
3.33cde
Garden soil + alnus compost
5.17a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
3.63bcd
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
4.50abc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
2.67de
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
2.17e
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
3.83abcd
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
27
Number of Leaves at 90 days from Seedling Emergence
As shown in Table 8.b., there were highly significant statistical differences that
were observed among the media used that affected the number of leaves 90 days from
seedling emergence. The results showed that the seeds sown in garden soil + alnus
compost had the highest number of leaves with a mean of 6.00, but one not statistically
different with the control. All the other seeds produce leaves ranging from 3 to 5 on 90
days from seedling emergence. While the seeds sown in garden soil + coco coir dust
attained the lowest number of leaves with a mean 3.67.
Table 8.b. Number of leaves at 90 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
NUMBER OF LEAVES
Garden soil (control)
5.17ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust
3.67c
Garden soil + alnus compost
6.00a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
4.67bc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
4.67bc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
4.17bc
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
3.83c
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
4.50bc
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
28
Seedling Vigor
Table 9 shows that there were highly significant statistical differences observed
among the media used in the study affecting the seedling vigor of tamarillo seedlings.
The result revealed that the seeds sown in garden soil + alnus compost had the highest
rating with a mean of 1.33. It was followed by seeds sown in coco coir dust + alnus
compost + sand, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand having identical
means of 2.67. While the seeds sown in a mixture of garden soil + coco coir dust, and
garden soil + coco coir dust + sand had the lowest rating with a mean of 3.67.
The result corroborates with the findings of Gawaban (1999) that a media 1:1:1
alnus, compost and garden soil, significantly improved the vegetative growth of
impatiens and produced taller plants.
On the other hand, Handreck (1993) enumerated the advantages of coco coir dust
over peat moss including the chemical properties. The electrical conductivity of 250
uS/cm is so high for vegetables like cabbage compared to the ideal electrical conductivity
of 2 to 3. The excessive salts present in the media of 250, 000 milligrams per kilo of coco
coir dust may be toxic to cabbage seedlings especially that the pH is strongly acidic.
Moreover, coco coir dust may be deficient from nitrogen element as almost all the
seedlings show nitrogen deficiency in which the green leaves becoming yellow, bronzed,
pink or purple as they age (purple tinge on old leaves) described by Scaife and Turner
(1983). However, the results showed that seeds sown in garden soil, garden soil + alnus
compost, garden soil + coco coir dust + sand, coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand, and
garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand had the shortest number of days to
leaf development.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
29
Table 9. Seedling vigor
TREATMENT
SEEDLING VIGOR
Garden soil (control)
2.33c
Garden soil + coco coir dust
3.67a
Garden soil + alnus compost
1.33d
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
3.33ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
3.33ab
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
3.67a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
2.67bc
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
2.67bc
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
Rating Description
1 most vigorous – excellent growth with dark green leaves
2 vigorous – good growth with green leaves
3 less vigorous – slightly good growth with light green leaves
4 poor – poor growth with yellow leaves
Transplanting Age
The data in Table 10 shows that there were highly significant differences
observed among the treatments with regards to age of transplanting. The results showed
that the seeds sown in garden soil, garden soil + alnus compost, coco coir dust + alnus
compost + sand and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand attained the
shortest days for transplanting age with a mean of 75.33 days. While the seeds sown in
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
30
Table 10. Transplanting age
TREATMENT
AGE
Garden soil (control)
75.33c
Garden soil + coco coir dust
111.33a
Garden soil + alnus compost
75.33c
Coco coir dust + alnus compost
92.67b
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost
92.67b
Garden soil + coco coir dust + sand
111.33a
Coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
75.33c
Garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
75.33c
Means with the same letter are not significant different at 5% level of DMRT
garden soil + coco coir dust, and garden soil + coco coir dust + sand had the longest days
for transplanting age with a mean of 111.33 days.
The result implies that using garden soil, alnus compost, coco coir dust, and sand
will enhance shorter duration and readiness for transplanting of tamarillo seedlings.
Figure 3 shows the overview of the seedlings ready for transplanting 90 days from
seedling emergence.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
31
Figure 3. Overview of the seedlings ready for transplanting 90 days from seedling
emergence.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
32
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study was conducted at the Pomology project, Benguet State University from
the month of November 2009 to February 2010 to determine the best growing media that
will promote/enhance seed germination and seedling emergence of tamarillo seeds and to
find out the effects of the different growing media on the seedling and growth of
tamarillo grown from seeds.
Significant differences were not observed on the number of days to seed
germination, and number of days to first appearance of leaves. While significant
differences were only observed regarding the percentage of emergence. Highly
significant differences was also observed on the Number of days to complete emergence,
Percentage of normal seedlings, Growth increment, Seedling height at 60 and 90 days
from seedling emergence, Number of leaves at 60 and 90 days from seedling emergence,
seedling vigor and transplanting age. The results revealed that the media mixture differed
much in their effects on the tamarillo seed germination including seedling growth.
The seeds sown in garden soil as the control, garden soil + alnus compost, garden
soil + coco coir dust + sand, coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand, and garden soil +
coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand were the earlier seedlings to emerge and had the
shortest number of days to leaf development. The mixture of garden soil + coco coir dust
+ alnus compost + sand had the least number of days to complete emergence of the seeds.
Meanwhile, a mixture of garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand could
enhance good emergence of tamarillo seeds. The combination of garden soil + alnus
compost attained the highest percentage of normal seedlings. Furthermore garden mixture
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
33
of soil + alnus compost attained the highest weekly growth increment, highest seedling
height at 60 and 90 days from seedling emergence, highest number of leaves 60 and 90
days, and highest rating for seedling vigor.
Lastly the seeds sown in garden soil, garden soil + alnus compost, coco coir dust
+ alnus compost + sand, and garden soil + coco coir dust + alnus compost + sand
enhanced shorter duration and readiness for transplanting of tamarillo seedlings.
Conclusions
Based from all the results that was observed, the use of 1:1 garden soil + alnus
compost can be used as a media in germinating tamarillo seeds. This can promote higher
percentage of normal seedlings, enhances good weekly growth increment, seedling
height, more number of leaves, and induced the growth of more vigorous seedlings
having excellent growth with dark green leaves. On the other hand, coco coir dust had
side effects on the growth of tamarillo seedlings where the leaves of tamarillo seedlings
became yellow and with stunted growth.
Recommendations
From the preceding results and discussions, the combination of garden soil and
alnus compost is recommended as a growing media to be used in germinating tamarillo
seeds. The use of undecompose coco coir dust should be avoided as this material seems
to affect the normality of seedlings and seedling growth as well.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
34
LITERATURE CITED
AGNAYA, J. C. 2004. Effect of cold stratification perion on the germination of Benguet
wild tea. BS Thesis. Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet. pp. 3-4.
ANDRES, R. S. 2006. Growth and flowering of angel’s wing (Spathiphylum kochi L.)
as affected by different potting media mixtures. BS Thesis. Benguet State
University, La Trinidad, Benguet. p. 26.
ANTONIO, T. D. 2000. Effect of horticultural perlite on the growth, flowering, quality
and cut flower yield of potted anthurium ‘Kansako’. BS Thesis. Benguet State
University, La Trinidad, Benguet. pp. 3, 6.
ASPILAN, A. F. 1998. Improvement in the germinability of carrot (Caocac carota L.)
seed by sea water pre-sowing treatment. BS Thesis. Benguet State University, La
Trinidad, Benguet. p. 3.
BISLEY, M. B. 2008. Germination of papaya (Carica papaya) seeds and seedling
characteristics as affected by different growing media in Camp 3, Tuba, Benguet.
BS Thesis. Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet. pp. 16-28.
CHRISTOPHER, E. P. 1958. Introductory Horticulture. Mcgraw-Hill Book Company.
New York, U. S. A. p. 90.
DONAHUE, R. L. 1971. An Introduction to Soils and Plant Growth. Third Edition.
Prentice Hall Inc. New Jersey. pp. 483-484.
FACCIOLA, S. 1990. Cornucopia: A Source Book of Edible Plants. Kampong
Publications. pp. 204-208.
GAWABAN, J. B. 1999. Response of containers grown impatients sultanii to different
potting media. BS Thesis. Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet. p. 18.
HANDRECK, K. A. 1993. Properties of coir dust, and its use in the formulation of
soilless potting media. Community Soil and Plant Analysis. 24: 349-363.
HANDRECK, K. A. and N. P. BLACK. 1994. Properties of Coir Dust, and Its Use in the
Formulation of Soil less potting media. Community Soil and Plant Analysis. 24:
349-363.
LAURIE, A. D. 1956. Commercial Flower Forcing. 6th ed. New York, Toronto,
London. Mcgraw-Hill Publication in Agricultural Science.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
35
NGALIDES, E. A. 2009. Germination of avocado (Persea americana) seeds and seedling
characteristics as affected by different growing media. BS Thesis. Benguet State
University, La Trinidad, Benguet.
SCAIFE, A. and M. TURNER. 1983. Diagnosis of Mineral Disorder in Plants. Volume 2:
Vegetables. London. Ministry of Agriculture and Food/ Agricultural Research
Council. pp. 21-22.
THOMPSON, L. M. and F. R. TROECH. 1978. Soils and Soil Fertility. 4th ed. McGraw-
Hill, Inc. New York. p. 232.
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
36
APPENDICES
Appendix Table 1. Number of days to initial emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
17
17
17
51
17a
T2
19
17
20
56
18.67a
T3
17
17
17
51
17a
T4
19
19
17
55
18.33a
T5
19
17
17
53
17.67a
T6
17
17
17
51
17a
T7
17
17
17
51
17a
T8
17
17
17
51
17a
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
1.083
0.542
Treatment
7
9.958
1.423
2.23ns
2.77
4.28
Error
14
8.917
0.637
Total
23
19.958
ns - not significant
Coefficient of variation = 4.57%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
37
Appendix Table 2. Number of days to complete emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
22
20
20
62
20.67bcd
T2
24
21
23
68
22.67a
T3
21
21
20
62
20.67bcd
T4
23
23
21
67
22.33ab
T5
24
19
21
64
21.33abc
T6
21
19
20
60
20.00cd
T7
20
20
19
59
19.67cd
T8
20
19
19
58
19.33d
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
13.083
6.542
Treatment
7
30.667
4.381
4.5153**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
13.583
0.970
Total
23
57.333
**Highly significant
Coefficient of variation = 4.73%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
38
Appendix Table 3. Percentage of emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
100
100
80
280
93.33ab
T2
60
70
70
200
66.67c
T3
90
100
90
280
93.33ab
T4
70
80
80
230
76.67bc
T5
100
90
90
280
93.33ab
T6
70
90
90
250
83.33abc
T7
70
90
100
260
86.67ab
T8
100
90
100
290
96.67a
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
175.000
87.500
Treatment
7
2229.167
318.452
3.8489*
2.77
4.28
Error
14
1158.333
82.738
Total
23
3562.500
*Significant
Coefficient of variation = 10.55%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
39
Appendix Table 4. Percentage of normal seedlings
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
70
80
90
240
80ab
T2
30
40
20
90
30c
T3
90
100
80
270
90a
T4
70
50
60
180
60b
T5
80
90
90
260
86.67a
T6
40
50
20
110
36.67c
T7
60
90
100
250
83.33a
T8
70
90
100
260
86.67a
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
408.333
204.167
Treatment
7
12116.667 1730.952 10.7306**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
2258.333 161.310
Total
23
14783.333
**Highly significant
Coefficient of variation = 18.63 %
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
40
Appendix Table 5. Number of days to first appearance of leaves
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
22
22
22
66
22a
T2
25
22
25
72
24a
T3
22
22
22
66
22a
T4
26
26
22
74
24.67a
T5
26
22
22
70
23.33a
T6
22
22
22
66
22a
T7
22
22
22
66
22a
T8
22
22
22
66
22a
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
4.750
2.375
Treatment
7
25.167
3.595
2.23ns
2.77
4.28
Error
14
22.583
1.613
Total
23
52.500
ns - not significant
Coefficient of variation = 5.58%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
41
Appendix Table 6. Growth increment
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
5.55
6.55
5.9
18
6b
T2
1.95
2.75
2.7
7.40
2.47a
T3
9.5
7.7
7.3
24.50
8.17cd
T4
4.75
4.05
4.6
13.40
4.47cd
T5
4.15
5
3.75
12.90
4.30e
T6
3.35
1.95
2.2
7.50
2.50e
T7
4.66
4.6
5.35
14.61
4.87bc
T8
3.55
2.85
3.65
10.05
3.35de
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
0.337
0.168
Treatment
7
75.983
10.855
24.2922**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
6.256
0.447
Total
23
82.575
**Highly significant
Coefficient of variation = 14.81%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
42
Appendix Table 7.a. Seedling height at 60 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
6.9
7.7
8.1
27.70
7.57b
T2
3
3.4
3.3
9.70
3.23e
T3
8.2
10.1
9.1
27.40
9.13a
T4
6.3
4.3
4.85
15.45
5.15cd
T5
6.2
5.5
6.2
17.90
5.97c
T6
3.15
2.8
3
8.95
2.98e
T7
5.1
4.15
4.35
13.60
4.53d
T8
5.6
5.55
5.5
16.65
5.55cd
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
0.071
0.036
Treatment
7
90.657
12.951
32.3861**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
5.599
0.400
Total
23
96.327
**Highly significant Coefficient of variation = 11.47%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
43
Appendix Table 7.b. Seedling height at 90 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
9.85
9.8
9.75
29.40
9.80b
T2
3.55
3.95
4.3
11.80
3.93d
T3
11.65
12.5
11.35
35.50
11.83a
T4
8.4
6.8
7.3
22.50
7.50c
T5
7.8
7.6
7.9
23.30
7.77c
T6
4.6
4.05
4.1
12.75
4.25d
T7
6.7
6.75
7.4
20.85
6.95c
T8
7.7
7.1
7.35
22.15
7.38c
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
0.181
0.09
Treatment
7
143.088
20.441
99.5108**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
2.876
0.205
Total
23
146.145
**Highly significant Coefficient of variation = 6.10%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
44
Appendix Table 8.a. Number of leaves at 60 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
5
5
5
15
5ab
T2
3
3
4
10
3.33cde
T3
5
5.5
5
15.50
5.16a
T4
5
2.4
3.5
10.90
3.63bcd
T5
5
4
4.5
13.50
4.50abc
T6
2
4
2
8.00
2.66de
T7
2.5
2
2
6.50
2.16e
T8
4
3.5
4
11.50
3.83abcd
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
0.292
0.146
Treatment
7
23.986
3.427
6.4414**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
7.447
0.532
Total
23
31.726
**Highly significant
Coefficient of variation = 19.26%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
45
Appendix Table 8.b. Number of leaves at 90 days from seedling emergence
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
6
4.5
5
15.50
5.17ab
T2
3
3.5
4.5
11.00
3.67c
T3
6
6
6
18.00
6.00a
T4
5
4.5
4.5
14.00
4.67bc
T5
5
4.5
4.5
14.00
4.67bc
T6
4.5
4
4
12.50
4.17bc
T7
3
3.5
5
11.50
3.83c
T8
5
4
4.5
13.50
4.50bc
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
0.896
0.448
Treatment
7
11.833
1.690
5.1403**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
4.604
0.329
Total
23
17.333
**Highly significant Coefficient of variation = 12.51%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
46
Appendix Table 9. Seedling vigor
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
2
3
2
7
2.33c
T2
3
4
4
11
3.67a
T3
1
2
1
4
1.33d
T4
3
4
3
10
3.33ab
T5
3
3
4
10
3.33ab
T6
3
4
4
11
3.67a
T7
2
3
3
8
2.67bc
T8
2
3
3
8
2.67bc
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
3.250
1.625
Treatment
7
13.292
1.899
12.7600**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
2.083
0.149
Total
23
18.625
**Highly significant
Coefficient of variation = 13.42%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
47
Appendix Table 10. Transplanting age
TREATMENT
REPLICATION
I
II
III
TOTAL
MEAN
T1
72
77
77
226
75.33c
T2
77
108
113
334
111.33a
T3
113
72
77
226
75.33c
T4
91
96
91
278
92.67b
T5
91
91
96
278
92.67b
T6
108
113
113
334
111.33a
T7
72
77
77
226
75.33c
T8
72
77
77
226
75.33c
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
Source of
Degrees
Sum of
Mean
Computed
Tabular F
variation
of
Squares
Squares
F
.05 .01
Freedom
Replication
2
39.583
19.792
Treatment
7
5312.000
758.857 113.3227**
2.77
4.28
Error
14
93.750
6.696
Total
23
5445.333
**Highly significant
Coefficient of variation = 2.92%
Seedling Emergence and Growth of Tamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by
Different Growing Media / Devens T. Wasing. 2010
Document Outline
- Seedling Emergence and Growth ofTamarillo Seeds (Solanum betaceum L.) as Affected by Different Growing Media
- BIBLIOGRAPHY
- ABSTRACT
- TABLE OF CONTENTS
- INTRODUCTION
- REVIEW OF LITERATURE
- Description of Tamarillo Fruit
- Seed Emergence
- Growing Media
- Climatic and Soil Adaptability
- Propagation
- MATERIALS AND METHODS
- RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
- Number of Days to Initial Emergence
- Number of Days to Complete Emergence
- Percentage of Emergence
- Percentage of Normal Seedling
- Number of Days to First Appearance of Leaves
- Growth Increment
- Seedling Height at 60 Days from Seedling Emergence
- Seedling Height at 90 Days from Seedling Emergence
- Number of Leaves at 60 days from Seedling Emergence
- Number of Leaves at 90 days from Seedling Emergence
- Seedling Vigor
- Transplanting Age
- SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
- Summary
- Conclusions
- Recommendations
- LITERATURE CITED
- APPENDICES