Integrated Use of Organic and Inorganic Nutrients Influences on Yield, Soil Fertility and Economics of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench)

Abstract

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) requires balanced nutrient management for high yield and quality, and organic inputs like FYM, liquid formulations (beejamrit, jeevamrit), and biofertilizers improve soil health, nutrient availability, and microbial activity. Their combined use enhances soil structure, fertility, and sustainable crop productivity.  The experiment was conducted during June to September month in 2023 at the Experimental Farm of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Neri, Hamirpur, H.P. to study the effect of organic and inorganic sources of nutrients on the yield, soil fertility and economics of okra. The experiment was laid out in split plot design having twelve treatment combinations comprising four nutrient management practices and three varieties and treatments were composed of organic and inorganic sources of nutrients. The results revealed that minimum soil pH (6.98) and maximum organic carbon of soil (0.73%) were obtained in the nutrient management practice N2 [FYM (100 q ha-1) + Azotobacter @ 20 g kg-1 of seed + Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria @ 20 g kg-1 of seed]. The maximum soil electrical conductivity (0.203 dSm-1), available nitrogen (241.73 kg ha-1), available phosphorus (22.04 kg ha-1) and available potassium (166.82 kg ha-1) were obtained in N3 [Recommended dose of fertilizers (78N:50P:54K kg ha-1) + FYM (100 q ha-1)]. There was no significant effect of soil pH, electrical conductivity (dSm-1) and organic carbon (%) on varieties, however Kashi Lalima recorded maximum available nitrogen (235.71 kg ha-1), available phosphorus (19.32 kg ha-1) and available potassium (163.52 kg ha-1). Highest gross income (₹ 3,09,200 ha-1), net income (₹ 2,28,860 ha-1) and benefit: cost ratio (2.84) were obtained in N4 [50 % RDF + Jeevamrit + Azotobacter and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria] and Punjab-8 recorded highest gross income (₹ 2,72,180 ha-1), net income (₹ 1,92,797 ha-1) and benefit: cost ratio (2.41). Hence, it may be concluded that the integrated application of organic fertilizers along with inorganic sources of nutrients enhanced the available soil nutrients, nutrient uptake and okra production.