Influence of Soil-application of Fish-protein Hydrolysate Liquid on Growth and Yield of Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.)

Abstract

Background: Organic inputs, especially biostimulants, are gaining immense importance in enhancing crop yields. In the present study, the effect of soil-application of fish-protein hydrolysate (FPH) on the growth and yield of spinach was evaluated. The effect of various doses on the yield and correlation of root growth with yield was attempted to establish. Methods: In the current experiment, spinach was grown in growing pots. Four different concentrations of the FPH liquid viz. 0.5 ml, 2 ml, 5 ml and 10 ml per plant were applied to each plant through soil application at the frequency of 8 days. Result: The study revealed that amongst the various tested doses of 0.5 ml, 2 ml, 5 ml and 10 ml, the highest yield was observed with a 2 ml dose. Compared to untreated control plants, about a 40% increase in the yield was observed in the treatment with a 2 ml dose. The higher yield was associated with better root development. The higher doses of 5 ml and 10 ml did not result in a proportional increase in yields. On the contrary, these higher doses resulted in an adverse effect on the growth of roots and yield. So, the present study demonstrated the utility of FPH in increasing the yield of spinach in organic farming at the experimental level.