Examinig the Effects of Bokash (Bio-Fertilizer) on the Growth and Yield of Rainy Fed Tomato Production Using Ripping Method on Upland Field: A Case Study of Dole Ward Milanzi Contituency in Katete District of Eastern Province of Zambia

The main aim of this contemporary issue in agronomy was to examine the effects of rainy fed tomato production in Bokash organic fertilizer using ripping method on upland fields in Dole Ward, Milanzi Constituency - Katete District. The study was conducted using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three treatments and four replicates, including a control group, chemical fertilizer, Bokash organic fertilizer application using broadcasting method, and Bokash organic fertilizer application using ripping method. Data on plant height, number of stems per plant, days to maturity, fruit size, number of fruits per cut and yield was be collected and analyzed using statistical software. The findings of this study have contributed to the understanding of the efficacy of ripping method in applying bokash organic fertilizer for rainy fed tomato production in the study area. The research outcomes were disseminated through a report and presented to the relevant stakeholders in the agriculture sector, providing valuable information for farmers, policymakers, and researchers.

In conclusion, the analysis of various rates of bokash organic fertilizer application rates on rainy fed tomato yield and the use of the ripping method on upland fields revealed that higher rates of bokash organic fertilizer application, particularly with the ripping method, can significantly enhance crop yields. Therefore, practical considerations, including cost-effectiveness and sustainability, should guide the choice of the right quantity of bokash fertilizer application rate in rainfed tomato production.

Furthermore, the comparative analysis of soil health data before and after an agricultural experiment demonstrated that the "Bokash Organic Fertilizers with ripping" method had a significant positive impact on soil health parameters. This contributed to the importance of sustainable practices, such as bokash organic fertilizer application with ripping method, for maintaining and enhancing soil quality, which is essential for both crop productivity and environmental conservation.