Effect of black soldier fly larval frass a novel organic manure on growth and yield of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

Abstract

Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larval frass is emerging as a promising organic manure in sustainable agriculture, owing to its high nutrient content and its contribution to recycling organic waste, thereby supporting circular economy principles. This study was undertaken during the rabi season of 2024 - 2025 at the College farm, Agricultural College, Jagtial, Telangana state, India, to assess the impact of BSF frass on growth and yield attributes of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), in comparison with vermicompost, FYM and inorganic fertilizer combinations. The experiment was carried out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) comprising eight treatments with three replications. Significant improvements in growth parameters including plant height (cm), leaf area index (LAI), SPAD and dry matter accumulation (gm m-2), were recorded in the treatment receiving 75% RDN supplemented with 25% nitrogen through BSF larval frass. Significantly higher head diameter (20.44 cm), number of seeds head-1 (1384), test weight (58.33 g), seed yield (2688 kg ha-1) and stalk yield (4278 kg ha-1) while, minimum number of unfilled seeds head-1 (109) was observed with 75% RDN + 25% nitrogen though BSF frass treatment compared to other treatments. The study demonstrates the potential of BSF larval frass as a valuable input in Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) strategies for sunflower cultivation, suggesting it as an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to as alternative to vermicompost, FYM and synthetic fertilizers.