Integrated effect of composts from pineapple harvest and processing residues and polyethylene mulch on growth and yield of pineapple (<i>Ananas comosus</i> (L.) Merrill) on Southern Benin

Soil fertility degradation limits pineapple production, the third cash crop in Benin, mainly due to reduced soil organic matter from high using mineral fertilizer. This study evaluated the effects of varying fertilization rates and mulching practices on growth and yield of pineapple. A split-plot experimental design was employed with three replications. The main factor was soil mulch (Polyethylene Mulch (PM) vs. UnMulched (UM)) and the sub-factor consisted the applying of compost based on pineapple harvest and processing residues, absolute control and farmers practices. Results revealed that soil mulching was beneficial for both varieties. Applying compost C4 (75% Harvest residues + 25% Poultry litter) at 20 t.ha-1 for both varieties, compost C4 at 30 t.ha-1 for sugar loaf variety; and composts C5 (56.25% Crown + 18.75% Processing residues + 25% Poultry litter) at 20 t.ha-1, C3 (75% Processing residues + 25% Poultry litter) at 30 t.ha-1 and C1 (37.5% Crown + 18.75% Processing residues + 18.75% Harvest residues + 25% Poultry litter) at 30 t.ha-1 for smooth cayenne variety can be recommended for improving pineapple growth and yield. Future studies should examine compost's long-term effects on soil health and water management; and its practical and economic feasibility under varying agroecological conditions.