Effects of enriched lactoferments on the physiological efficiency of Solanum phureja in acid Andean soils

Abstract

The cultivation of potato (Solanum phureja) in high-Andeanbacid soils faces productivity challenges due to low availability of mineral nutrients. To address this, the present study introduced a novel fertilization strategy using mineral-enriched lactoferments. This research evaluated the agronomic impact of applying lactoferment at 10% and 15%, combined with 25%, 50%, and 75% mineral fertilizer enrichment, on crop growth, phenology, and yield using a randomized complete block design with 9 treatments and 4 replicates, totaling 36 experimental units. The enriched treatments significantly enhanced plant emergence (P<0.05), with emergence rates ranging from 94% to 97%. These treatments improved vegetative growth, as shown by a 10-15% increase in stem diameter compared to conventional management of chemical fertilizers. The most effective treatment (15% lactoferment + 75% mineral enrichment) achieved the highest yield of 26.69 kg per plot (equivalent to 88.97 t ha⁻¹), outperforming the chemical fertilizer control by 35%. Statistical analyses clustered the enriched treatments into regions of high vigor and production, revealing a positive correlation between tuber weight and organic matter content in soil. The mineral-enriched lactoferments represent a novel, eco friendly, and high-yielding alternative for enhancing S. phureja productivity and mitigating the limitations of conventional management in acid Andean soils.