Effect of Organic Nutrient Management Practices on Growth, Biomass Accumulation and Physiological Attributes of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)

Abstract

Background: Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) productivity is declining due to continuous use of chemical fertilizers and deterioration of soil health. Integrated organic nutrient management is considered a sustainable approach to enhance crop growth and maintain soil fertility. Methods: A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2021-22 at Raichur using a randomized complete block design with eleven treatments and three replications. Different combinations of compost, vermicompost and poultry manure were applied as basal and top dressing along with foliar sprays of panchagavya and vermiwash to evaluate their effect on growth, biomass and physiological parameters of cotton. Result: Treatment T10 recorded the highest plant height (99.5 cm), total dry matter production (408.6 g plant-1), leaf area (85.2 dm2 plant-1), leaf area index (3.15) and SPAD value (45.6). Integrated organic nutrient management significantly improved growth and physiological attributes compared to sole compost application.