Influence of bio-stimulants and method of application on growth, yield and quality of onion (Allium cepa L)

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of bio-stimulants and their application methods on the growth, yield, and quality of onions (Allium cepa L.). Conducted during the rabi season of 2021-22 at Anand Agricultural University, the experiment involved six bio-stimulants - Azotobacter, Azospirillum, NPK Consortia, Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB), Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (VAM), and Jeevamrut—with two application methods: seedling dip and soil application. The results revealed that the NPK Consortia applied via soil significantly enhanced plant height, leaf count, bulb weight, and bulb dimensions compared to other treatments. These findings suggest that using NPK Consortia as a bio-stimulant through soil application is an effective approach for improving onion crop yield and quality.