Yield and Economics of Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica Plenck) Response to Enriched-Vermiwash and Biofertilizers

Abstract

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica Plenck) productivity and profitability depend strongly on effective nutrient management. A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2025–26 at the Research Farm, Mewar University, Gangrar, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, to evaluate the effects of enriched vermiwash and biofertilisers on broccoli yield and economics. The experiment was arranged in a factorial randomised block design with three enriched-vermiwash levels: no application, 10 mL L⁻¹ water, and 15 mL L⁻¹ water; and three biofertiliser levels: no application, 3 kg ha⁻¹, and 5 kg ha⁻¹. The nine treatment combinations were replicated three times. Yield observations included primary and secondary curd weights, number of secondary curds per plant, average curd weight, and curd yield. Gross return, net return, and benefit:cost ratio were also determined. Enriched vermiwash at 15 mL L⁻¹ water recorded the highest primary curd weight (500.56 g), secondary curd weight (253.00 g), number of secondary curds per plant (9.21), average curd weight (753.56 g), and curd yield (257.68 q ha⁻¹). This treatment also produced the highest gross return (₹5,15,356 ha⁻¹), net return (₹3,88,422 ha⁻¹), and benefit:cost ratio (3.05) among the enriched-vermiwash levels. The V₂B₂ interaction recorded the maximum curd yield and economic returns. Under the study conditions, combined application of enriched vermiwash and biofertilisers improved broccoli yield and profitability.