Effect of different nitrogen levels on yield and yield attributes of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)

Abstract

Farmers in Lamjung have been unable to maximize okra performance and yield due to being unaware of the ideal fertilizer dosage. A field experiment was carried out at Sundarbazar-7, Lamjung during the period from March to June 2023 to understand the optimal N level to enhance the growth and yield of okra. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used to set up the experiment with the seven treatments viz. control, 40, 55, 70, 85, 100, and 115 kg N ha-1 each had three replications. A hybrid variety Arka Anamika mostly used by farmers in Lamjung was used. Recorded data on yield and yield contributing parameters were subjected to statistical analysis and results revealed a significant effect of the treatments on the yield and yield attributes of okra. Plants treated with T6(100 kg N ha-1) had the highest number of fruits per plant (13.10), fruit length (15.84cm), weight of a single pod (15.84 g), and total fruit yield of 14.74 t ha-1. The lowest number of fruits per plant (7.93), fruit length (9.29 cm), single fruit weight (9.29 g), and yield (8.12 t ha-1) were recorded from the control treatment T1 (0 kg N ha-1). Meanwhile, the impact of treatment T6 (100 kg N ha-1) was found to be effective compared to other treatments under study. Based on these findings, the experiment suggests okra farmers to use 100 kg N ha-1 to maximize okra performance and yield considering the soil health.