Effect of integrated use of bio- inoculants, organic and chemical fertilizers on soil microbial population, soil properties and incidence of pathogens on okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench

Abstract

A Field experiment was conducted at Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Horticulture (Vegetable and Floriculture), Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour during Kharif season of 2017 to explore the best integration of microbial inoculant, organic and chemical fertilizers with respect to improving physical and biological properties of soil and yield of okra by minimising yellow vein mosaic virus. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design replicated thrice. The results indicated that the application of 25 % RDN through chemical fertilizer + 75 % RDN through vermicompost + Azotobacter + PSB (T16) improved, chemical (pH, EC, O. C, Available N, P, K) and biological (Azotobacter, PSB, Fungi ) properties of the soil, reduced the Per cent disease incidence was of YVMV and enhanced the yield of okra. Thus it can be inferred that the nutrient supply through 75% chemical and 25% through Vermicompost along with the use of biofertilizers (Azotobacter + PSB) is beneficial for improving the soil health, minimising the YVMV and increasing the yield of okra.