Effect of shade management and agronomic management including soil types, fertigation levels and intervals on yield and biochemical-quality parameters of ginger

Abstract

Ginger (Zingiber officinale), a globally valued spice and medicinal crop, exhibits significant variability in growth, yield, and quality depending on environmental and agronomic conditions. This review synthesizes current research on the effects of shade levels, soil types, and fertigation practices on ginger cultivation. Moderate shade (20-40%) enhances physiological parameters, such as photosynthetic efficiency and dry matter accumulation, leading to improved rhizome yield and higher volatile oil content, while excessive shade may reduce crude fiber and curing efficiency. Soil characteristics, particularly texture, pH, bulk density, and organic matter content, play a pivotal role in determining yield and bioactive compound profiles, with well-drained sandy loams and loamy laterites proving most favorable. Fertigation strategies, including 100-125% of the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) integrated with organic inputs, improve nutrient uptake, growth traits, and quality attributes like essential oils, oleoresins, and gingerols. Stage-specific and frequent fertigation intervals further optimize nutrient utilization, enhancing both productivity and crop quality. The findings highlight that integrated management of shade, soil, and fertigation offers a sustainable and high-return approach to ginger cultivation.