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

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of bio-stimulants and their application methods on the growth, yield, and quality of onion (Allium cepa L.) during the rabi season of 2020-2021. Conducted at the Horticultural Research Farm, B.A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, the research comprised six bio-stimulants (Azotobacter, Azospirillum, NPK Consortia, Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria, Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza, and Jeevamrut) and two application methods (seedling dip and soil application). The experiment, designed using a Randomized Block Design with factorial concept and three replications, revealed significant improvements in plant height, number of leaves, bulb weight, and bulb dimensions with the NPK Consortia bio-stimulant under soil application. This combination yielded the highest results, making it the most effective treatment for improving onion growth and yield. The study highlights the potential of bio-stimulants in reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers, enhancing crop yield, and promoting sustainable agriculture.