Influence of Enriched Vermicompost on Growth, Yield, Quality and Nutrient Dynamics of Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench

Sustainable nutrient management plays a vital role in improving crop productivity while maintaining soil health. Enriched vermicompost, which integrates organic and inorganic nutrient sources, has emerged as an effective approach to enhance nutrient availability and use efficiency in vegetable crops. A controlled pot culture experiment was conducted to evaluate the impact of enriched vermicompost on the growth, yield, quality, and nutrient dynamics of bhendi (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench). The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design with eleven treatments and
three replications. Vermicompost was enriched using organic inputs such as Azolla (nitrogen source), bone meal and rock
phosphate (phosphorus sources), and banana pseudostem (potassium source), along with inorganic fertilizers including ammonium sulphate, single super phosphate, and muriate of potash. These were applied at graded levels equivalent to 1.25, 2.5, and 3.75 t ha⁻¹. The results revealed that enriched vermicompost treatments significantly enhanced plant growth, yield attributes, and nutrient uptake compared to control and vermicompost alone. Among the treatments, vermicompost enriched with banana pseudostem and muriate of potash at 3.75 t ha⁻¹ recorded the highest plant height (108.3 cm), dry matter production (38.4 g plant⁻¹), fruit yield (295 g plant⁻¹), and number of fruits (21 plant⁻¹). This treatment also improved fruit quality and extended shelf life up to 8 days. Furthermore, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content and uptake were markedly higher under enriched treatments. The findings demonstrate that integrated enrichment of vermicompost enhances nutrient use efficiency, improves soil fertility, and promotes sustainable production of bhendi