Influence of nano urea application on growth, yield and quality parameters of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)

Abstract

The present investigation was conducted to assess the influence of Nano urea in combination with different levels of recommended nitrogen (RDN) on the growth, yield, and seed quality of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.). A field experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with ten treatment combinations and three replications during the Kharif season of 2024 at the Main Experiment Station, Department of Vegetable Science, CSAUAT, Kanpur. The treatments included 100%, 75%, and 50% RDN levels along with one or two foliar sprays of Nano urea (4 ml/L), applied at 30 and/or 60 days after sowing. The results revealed that the treatment T3 (100% RDN + two foliar sprays of Nano urea) significantly outperformed all other treatments in terms of plant height (310.45 cm), number of branches per plant (7.00), fruit length (18.30 cm), fruit diameter (2.87 cm), and number of fruits per plant (35.00). It also resulted in the highest seed yield (1100 kg/ha), number of seeds per fruit (65.67), test weight (10.93 g), germination percentage (92.17%), and vigor index (1307.17). Importantly, treatments T6 and T9, which received 75% and 50% RDN respectively along with two Nano urea sprays, also recorded comparable performance, indicating enhanced nitrogen use efficiency due to Nano urea application. Economically, the highest benefit-cost ratio (1:2.40) was recorded under T3, suggesting that Nano urea not only improves crop productivity but also ensures greater profitability. These findings highlight the potential of Nano urea as a sustainable and effective component in integrated nutrient management systems for okra cultivation. The integration of Nano urea with either full or reduced nitrogen levels can lead to improved growth, yield, quality, and economic returns while reducing environmental impact.