The beneficial effect of filter-press cake on pineapple yields under field conditions

Abstract

Data from two field experiments located in typical pineapple growing areas in the northern and interior regions of Puerto Rico are reported here. Pineapple plants grown in soil to which filter-press cake was applied previous to planting developed vigorously and were of a dark-green color. Their leaves were wider and their stems and flower stalks thicker than those of pineapple plants given other treatments. At one location, Arecibo, pineapple plants grown in soil receiving at least 39 tons of filter-press cake to the acre, in addition to 1,500 pounds of a 12-6-10 fertilizer, produced yields as high and fruits as large as plants grown in soil receiving twice as much fertilizer but no filter-press cake. Omissions of nitrogen or filter-press cake resulted in reduced yields. The possibility of using filter-press cake more extensively in pineapple fields in the Arecibo and related areas, in conjunction with smaller doses of fertilizers than are generally used, deserve careful consideration from the growers. At the second location, Corozal, 3,000 pounds of fertilizer in addition to 32 tons of filter-press cake to the acre proved to be necessary for maximum yields. Omissions of both potash and nitrogen are detrimental to pineapple production.