Evaluation of the hydrogel effect on the growth and yield of okra (<i>Abelmoschus esculentus</i>) in an anthropized environment soil in Korhogo the northern part of Côte d'Ivoire

Abstract

Rational use of fertilizers and irrigation water are concerns to modern agronomy considering an efficient and promising perspective to obtain better yields. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of potassium-based hydrogel on the growth and yield of okra on anthropized soils of Korhogo in Northern Côte d'Ivoire. The experimental design used consisted of three repetitions with the 8-modality hydrogel as the first factor (0 g, 0.1 g, 0.3 g, 0.5 g, 1 g, 2 g, 3 g and 4 g). The second factor was the type of application with 2 modalities: (0 cm and in depth of 6 cm). Control seedlings were established in soils without hydrogel. The results showed that the germination rate, growth and fruit yield of okra were significantly different for the different amounts of hydrogels used. The best results were obtained on plots that received 0.3 g of hydrogel applied at a depth of 6 cm. It was concluded that the rational use of 0.3 g hydrogels not only contributes to germination but also stimulates growth and improves the yield of okra grown on anthropized soils in the town of Korhogo. This quantity of hydrogel is therefore recommended for agricultural use to deal with the constraints linked to water scarcity and soil depletion.