Valorization of Sugarcane Residues as a Bio-input for Sustainable Cultivation of Cucurbita moschata on the Northern Coast of Peru

The valorization of agro-industrial waste represents a pivotal strategy for enhancing the sustainability of horticultural systems in arid regions. This study evaluated the potential of compost derived from sugarcane residues as an ecological alternative to chemical fertilization in the cultivation of Cucurbita moschata (loche), a culturally and economically significant crop on the northern coast of Peru. Four fertilization treatments were compared: conventional mineral fertilization, compost from sugarcane residues enriched with efficient microorganisms, compost supplemented with digestive enzymes, and guano from islands. Physiological parameters (plant vitality, elongation, number of shoots, and SPAD index) and productive indicators (fruit number, length, diameter, and °Brix) were evaluated under dry climatic conditions. Significant differences were observed in SPAD values at 107 days after sowing, with conventional mineral fertilization exhibiting the highest index (51.39 ± 5.4). While yield related traits did not differ statistically among treatments, compost from sugarcane residues enriched with efficient microorganisms showed vegetative development comparable to that of the mineral treatment, along with a positive trend in plant length. No significant differences were observed in fruit quality or number. These results suggest that composted sugarcane residues, especially when enriched with microbial agents, can support crop growth without compromising productivity. This study constitutes the first formal report on the application of sugarcane waste compost in C. moschata cultivation. Its implementation could promote agroecological practices, reduce reliance on mineral.