EFFECTIVENESS OF ORGANIC INPUT AND CULTURAL PRACTICES IN EGGPLANT (Solanum melongena L.) CULTIVATION: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

This systematic literature review synthesizes empirical evidence on the effectiveness of organic inputs and cultural practices in eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) cultivation. Ten peer-reviewed articles published between 2012 and 2025, comprising five national and five international studies, were analyzed. The results indicate that organic fertilizers and mulching improve soil fertility, enhance plant growth, and increase yield stability, while mycorrhizal inoculation significantly strengthens nutrient uptake and stress tolerance. Technological innovations, such as biodegradable mulching films and energy-efficient greenhouses, further enhance productivity while reducing environmental impacts. Beyond agronomic benefits, eggplant farming demonstrates economic feasibility, supports household food security, and contributes to women’s empowerment in rural communities. Despite these promising outcomes, limitations remain due to short study durations, single-site experiments, and insufficient integration of socio-economic aspects. The review highlights the need for multi-season, multi-location research that combines agronomic, technological, and socio-economic dimensions to support sustainable eggplant production systems.