PRODUCTION AND EVALUATION OF TWO BIOFERTILIZERS ON VEGETATIVE GROWTH OF SWEET POTATO (IPOMEA BATATAS L.) IN BENIN

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatasL.) is a key crop for food security in many developing countries, including Benin. Despite its potential for high yield and nutritional value, the productivity of sweet potato in Benin remains limited, primarily due to soil fertility challenges and inadequate fertilization practices. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of two biofertilizers as Boost-L (liquid biofertilizer) and CompoRich (compost) on the vegetative growth of two sweet potato varieties in Benin. Specifically, it aimed to assess their impact on stem length, number of leaves, and leaf area. The experiment was conducted on a 716 m plot. The study used a randomized block design with six treatments, involving two varieties and three fertilization treatments. Biofertilizers were applied at different rates,and key growth parameters were monitored over a 9-week period. The results indicated that both biofertilizers significantly enhanced leaf production. Boost-L (F1) showed the highest effectiveness, followed by Compo Rich (F2). However, no significant effects were observed on stem length or leaf area. Additionally, microbial analysis revealed increased microbial activity in soils treated with biofertilizers, particularly Compo Rich. This study recommends the adoption of biofertilizers as an alternative to chemical fertilizers for improving sweet potato production, particularly in resource-limited settings. Further studies should explore the long-term effects of these biofertilizers on tuber yield and soil health.