Used Coffee Grounds (UCG) as Tomato Fertilizer
A Research Proposal Presented to:
ROSE ANN M. ECALDRE
Teacher II
In Partial fulfillment of the Subject
RESEARCH I
Marian Ryza A. Sison
Gersh Shekinah S. Miclat
Jackie A. Pineda
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INTRODUCTION
Rationale
Coffee consumption generates substantial waste in the form
of used coffee grounds (UCG) (Batista et al., 2021). These grounds, rich in
organic matter, nitrogen, and other essential nutrients, represent a
potential sustainable resource for agriculture (Awasthi et al., 2015). Their
application as soil amendments could improve soil fertility and plant
growth, offering an eco-friendly alternative to commercial fertilizers,
which often have negative environmental impacts (Sharma et al., 2018).
Commercial fertilizers, while effective in boosting crop yields, contribute
to environmental pollution through nutrient runoff and greenhouse gas
emissions (Tilman et al., 2002). Tomato, a globally popular fruit, is grown
worldwide and is rich in beneficial compounds. However, in spite of the
importance of vegetable quality to human health, there has been little
improvement in the tomato fruit quality since producers preferentially
select cultivars with traits of resistance to biotic and abiotic stress,
extended shelf-life and appearance. (Bao et al., 2020). The increasing
demand for sustainable agricultural practices necessitates the exploration
of eco-friendly alternatives. While UCG offers a promising solution, its
effectiveness varies depending on factors such as soil type, application
rate, and plant species. A comprehensive study comparing UCG's impact
on tomato growth in different soil types (loam and composed soil) against
commercial fertilizers is lacking. Used coffee grounds, when applied as a
soil amendment, will significantly enhance soil fertility and tomato growth
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in both loam and composed soils compared to the use of commercial
fertilizers. The effect may vary depending on the soil type. This study will
investigate the effectiveness of UCG as a sustainable soil amendment by
comparing tomato growth and soil fertility parameters in loam and
composed soils amended with UCG versus commercial fertilizers. The
results will provide valuable insights into the potential of UCG as a viable
alternative to commercial fertilizers in sustainable agriculture.
Statement of the Problem
General Objectives
This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of Used Coffee Grounds
(UCG) compared to commercial fertilizers as organic amendment for
Roma Tomato in enhancing the growth, measured by increased plant
height and fruit production.
Specific Objectives
This study will seek answer to the following questions:
1. How does Used Coffee Grounds (UCG) fertilizer differ from commercial
fertilizer in terms of;
1.1 Final Plant Height
1.2 Rate of Plant Growth
1.3 Total Fruit Yield
1.4 Extent of Root Development
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2. Is there any significant difference between Used Coffee Grounds (UCG)
and commercial fertilizer in terms of;
2.1 Final Plant Height
2.1 Rate of Plant Growth
2.2 Total Fruit Yield
2.3 Extent of Root Development
Hypothesis
There is no significant difference between Used Coffee Grounds
(UCG) and commercial fertilizer in terms of plant height, rate of plant
growth, total fruit yield, and extent of root development.
Significance of the Study
The completion of this research will benefit the following:
For Future Researchers. This research provides a foundation for future
studies exploring UCG's optimal application methods and broader impacts
on various crops and soil types.
For Students. This study offers a practical, real-world example of
sustainable agriculture and waste management for students in various
scientific disciplines.
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For Environmentalists. This research contributes to the development of
environmentally friendly agricultural practices by highlighting the
potential of UCG as a valuable soil amendment, reducing waste and
promoting sustainability.
For Farmers. This study demonstrates the cost-effectiveness of Used
Coffee Grounds as a soil amendment, offering farmers a cheaper
alternative to commercial fertilizers while potentially enhancing plant
growth.
Scope and Delimitation of the Study
Through this research, we aimed to determine the efficacy of used
coffee grounds (UCG) as a soil amendment for tomato growth in loam and
composted soil compared to commercial fertilizers. However, the study's
scope is limited by its short duration and the relatively small number of
soil types and plant species investigated, necessitating further research to
fully assess UCG's long-term effects and broader applicability.
Definitions of Terms
Extent of Root Development- This describes the overall depth that the
roots are able to reach.
Final Plant Height: This refers to the maximum height achieved by a plant
at the end of the growth process. It is the measure of overall plant size.
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Rate of Plant Growth: This can be defined by the speed at which the plant
increases in size over a specific time period.
Total Fruit Yield: This represents the amount of fruit that is produced after
flowering stage.