Effects of Different Colored-Plastic Mulches on the Growth, Yield and Weed Density in Eggplant (Solanum Melongena L) Production

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of different colored plastic mulches on the growth, yield, and weed density of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.). The experiment was conducted from January to May 2025 at Purok 9, Highlander, Baylo, Monkayo, Davao de Oro using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with five treatments and three replications: T1 – Control (no mulch), T2 – Black plastic mulch, T3 – Transparent plastic mulch, T4 – Red plastic mulch, and T5 – Black-silver plastic mulch. Data collected included plant height, leaf count, days to first flower initiation, leaf area, fruit count, fruit size, fruit weight, marketable fruits, weed density, and weed classification. Results showed that plastic mulch had no significant effect on plant height during early growth stages. However, significant differences were observed in leaf number and leaf area, with red and transparent plastic mulches producing higher leaf counts and larger leaf areas. In terms of yield, red plastic mulch resulted in higher fruit weight and a greater number of marketable fruits. Plastic mulch treatments significantly reduced weed density compared to the control, with black-silver and black plastic mulches providing the greatest weed suppression. Overall, the study indicates that colored plastic mulches, particularly red mulch, can enhance eggplant growth and yield while effectively reducing weeds, although its higher cost and limited availability may affect adoption by farmers.