Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management Using Chemical Fertilizer and Combined Organic Sources on Growth and Yield of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)

Abstract

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.), commonly known as bhendi, is a high-value vegetable crop whose productivity often relies heavily on chemical fertilization. However, excessive use of synthetic fertilizers threatens soil fertility and environmental sustainability. This study evaluated the effectiveness of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) strategies involving the partial substitution of the Recommended Dose of Fertilizer (RDF) with combined organic manures to achieve sustainable okra production. The experiment was conducted under a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with six treatments and three replications, comprising T1 (Control), T2 (100% RDF), T3 (50% RDF + FYM), T4 (50% RDF + VC), T5 (50% RDF + FYM + VC), and T6 (75% RDF + FYM + VC + Banana Peel and Eggshell Mixture). Growth and yield parameters were recorded and statistically analyzed using ANOVA followed by the Critical Difference (CD) test at P ≤ 0.05. Results revealed that the integrated application of chemical and organic sources significantly improved both vegetative growth and yield performance. The T6 treatment achieved the highest pod yield of 18.9 t ha⁻¹, which was approximately 40% higher than the full 100% RDF (13.5 t ha⁻¹) and more than double that of the unfertilized control (8.2 t ha⁻¹). T6 also recorded maximum plant height (135.2 cm) and number of leaves (28.5 per plant). The superior performance of T6 highlights the synergistic effect of combining FYM, vermicompost, and nutrient-rich organic residues with reduced chemical inputs. In conclusion, adopting a 75% RDF base supplemented with FYM, Vermicompost, and a Banana Peel + Eggshell Mixture offers a practical, cost-effective, and eco-friendly nutrient management strategy for maximizing okra yield while conserving soil health and reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers.