Optimization of Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.)] Production through Improved Technical Itineraries in Korhogo (Northern Côte d'Ivoire): Evaluation of some Agrophysiological Parameters

Abstract

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is cultivated throughout northern Côte d'Ivoire. However, it is threatened by poor soil quality, which reduces production. Our overall objective was to provide producers with technical itineraries to contribute to increased okra productivity. Therefore, planting beds consisting of flat ground (TP), ridges without polyethylene film cover (BSP), and ridges with polyethylene film cover (BAP) were prepared at densities of 20,000 and 80,000 plants per hectare. Fertilizers (F1, F2, F3, F4) were applied to the plants in three or four fractions. The trials were arranged in completely randomized blocks with three replications of four factors. Quantitative data were analyzed using STATISTICA 7.1 for analysis of variance (ANOVA) and XLSTAT version 2019 for principal component analysis (PCA). The results show that planting beds, planting density, fertilizer types, and application frequency significantly influenced vegetative parameters and okra weight (P < 0.001 at 5%). The highest weights were obtained with BAP (428.7 g), D20 density (610.2 g), and F4 fertilizer (856.4 g). The combination of these factors led to 48 technical itineraries. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the technical itineraries based on recorded growth and yield parameters revealed that all variables are positively oriented and strongly correlated with the F1 axis (86.06%). The distribution of the different technical itineraries along the axes allowed for the identification of the best technical itinerary: BAP/D20/F4/3AP. The correlation matrix revealed significant positive correlations between the parameters studied (r > 0.5; P < 0.001). This suggests that choosing this technical approach could contribute to food security and increase producers' income.