Evaluating Biofertilizer Impact on Growth and Earliness in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] cv. Arka Anamika

Abstract

Aims: Evaluate the efficacy of biofertilizers on growth and earliness in okra. Study Design: Randomized Block Design. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Olericulture, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, Thrissur. Methodology: The present study employed the biofertilizers Azospirillum, Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) and Frateuria. Organic manures and chemical fertilizers were applied in accordance with the Package of Practices (POP) recommendations of Kerala Agricultural University. A total of thirteen treatment combinations were established, encompassing single, dual and integrated applications of the three biofertilizers with Farm Yard Manure (FYM); double dose of FYM along with the biofertilizers; and combined application of the biofertilizers and FYM with 50%, 75% and 100% of the Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF). Additionally, treatments included the use of the three biofertilizers individually, alongside a control (POP) treatment. Results: The study revealed that the integrated application of all the three biofertilizers along with double dose of Farm Yard Manure (T8) significantly enhanced vegetative growth in okra, resulting in increased plant height (2.15 m) and higher leaf numbers (37.67, 54.33, and 50.33) across different growth stages, along with maximum dry matter accumulation (350.50 g/plant). Similarly, the combined use of FYM, 75% of recommended inorganic fertilizers and biofertilizers (T10) produced taller plants (2.19 m) with substantial dry matter production (345.49 g/plant). These results demonstrate that integrated nutrient management, combining organic, inorganic and biofertilizer inputs, effectively promotes vegetative growth and contributes to earliness in okra cultivation. Conclusion: Integrated nutrient management along with biofertilizers significantly increased the growth parameters which inturn influenced the earliness in okra.