Studies on conjoint application of nutrient sources and PGPR on growth,yield, quality,and economics of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L.)

The present experiment was carried out with cauliflower cv. Pusa Snowball K1 in a randomized block design with three replications. The experiment comprised of seven different treatments with different sources of nutrients including organic fertilizers, inorganic fertilizers, and biofertilizers, which were applied following the proper procedures as per treatment. Conjoint use of fertilizers, manures, and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) significantly influenced plant growth and yield attributes of crop. Gross weight (1,267.22 g), curd weight (981.05 g), curd yield (392.45 q/ha), number of days taken to curd initiation (86.17) and curd maturity (94.00) and ascorbic acid content (74.87 mg/100 g) were found best under T₅. Also, treatment T₅ recorded 42.77% increase in yield over recommended practice (T₁) along with highest benefit cost ratio (3.36) and quality (ascorbic acid). From present investigation, it can be concluded that treatment T₅ (75% NPK + 50% FYM and 50% VC on N equivalence basis + PGPR) can be suggested as a cost-effective nutrient module for getting higher yield and quality with 25% net saving of fertilizers, besides enhanced soil health as evident by soil fertility status of soil after crop harvest.