Response of vermicompost levels and PGRs on growth and yield of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) under sub humid South Eastern plain

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted at Research Farm, Mewar University Gangrar, Chittorgarh (Rajasthan) during rainy season to check of organic manures and biofertilizers on growth and yield of cabbage variety “Golden Acre‟ was used in this study. The present investigation was conducted at Research Farm, Mewar University Gangrar, Chittorgarh (Rajasthan) during Rabi season to evaluate the effect of vermicompost and plant growth regulators (PGRs) on the growth and yield of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.). The study assessed different levels of vermicompost (0, 2.5, 3.5, and 5 t/ha) and PGRs (Control, NAA 50 ppm, GA₃ 50 ppm, and NAA 50 ppm + GA₃ 50 ppm). Results revealed that the application of vermicompost at 5 t/ha (V4) significantly enhanced plant height (28.12 cm at 60 DAT), number of leaves (8.88), plant spread (59.63 cm²), and leaf length (24.60 cm), as compared to the control (V1). Similarly, PGR treatment P4 (NAA + GA₃) showed the best performance in most growth traits. The combination of V4P4 resulted in the earliest head initiation (34.02 days) and the highest fresh head weight (785.00 g), plot yield (22.15 kg), and yield per hectare (38.77 t/ha). The synergistic effect of vermicompost and PGRs significantly improved vegetative growth, reduced time to maturity, and maximized yield. The enhancement in yield attributes is attributed to improved nutrient availability, hormonal regulation, and efficient assimilate partitioning. These findings highlight the potential of integrating organic nutrition and hormonal treatments for sustainable cabbage production.