Okra Production Research Articles

Review Article Advanced seed invigoration technologies in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench)

Okra is one of the important warm season vegetables widely cultivated for its tender green fruits and has huge potential for foreign exchange and commercial trade. It is propagated through botanical seeds. Non-availability of quality seeds, poor storability due to oil content, hard seed, slow and uneven germination are the important causes of low productivity of okra. To overcome the above problems, cost effective seed invigoration treatments are recommended in commercial seed production centers. Currently “Seed enhancement Technologies” is gaining attention to improve seed vigour and enhance planting value of crop plants. This research review provides insights into various seed quality enhancement treatments viz., seed priming, physical treatment, seed coating, seed pelleting and other novel treatments namely; nanotechnology and plasma treatments are discussed for adoption of seed treatments to enhance seedling vigour, boost crop production and productivity. Among different methods reported seed priming is adjusted as most economical and trending technique which is considered as climate resilient in terms of biotic and abiotic stress conditions. Key words: Climate resilient, Crop productivity, Okra, Seed invigoration, Seed quality

Enhancing Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus L. (Moench)] Performance: A Comparative Study of Priming Across Varieties

This study, titled “Enhancing okra performance: A comparative study of priming across varieties,” aimed to evaluate the effects of osmopriming with Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) 6000 and biopriming with Pseudomonas fluorescens on five okra varieties—Aruna, Anjitha, Pusa-5, Salkeerthi, and Varsha Uphar. The initial seed quality parameters of all the five varieties were assessed immediately after these treatments. Variety Salkeerthi showed superiority for germination and vigour indices closely followed by Varsha Uphar. Both priming treatments had similar effects on initial seed quality parameters and showed superiority over the control. The research employed a Randomized Complete Block design with three replications to assess growth, fruit, and seed traits, revealing significant differences among varieties, treatments, and their interaction. Varsha Uphar exhibited the highest field emergence, plant height, early flowering, number of fruits per plant, and seed yield per plant. Pusa-5 achieved the highest fruit weight and fruit yield per plant. Among treatments, biopriming with Pseudomonas fluorescens (T2) excelled in field emergence, number of branches, and fruit traits, while osmopriming with PEG 6000 (T1) was superior for internodal length and seeds per pod. The Varsha Uphar × Pseudomonas fluorescens combination (V5 × T2) recorded the best performance in field emergence, days to 50 per cent flowering, plant height, and seed yield per plant. Meanwhile, Pusa-5 × PEG 6000 (V3 × T1) produced the highest fruit weight and fruit yield per plant. The findings indicate that priming, particularly biopriming with Pseudomonas fluorescens, significantly enhances seedling emergence, growth, and yield, highlighting its potential for improving okra productivity. This study underscores the value of adopting seed priming techniques to optimize performance in okra cultivation.

Potential of Biochar-Based Fertilizers for Increasing the Productivity of Okra in Gajuri, Dhading

Sustainable agricultural production depends on increasing crop productivity while preserving soil health and reducing environmental risk. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential of biochar (10 t ha-1) based organic and inorganic fertilizer for increasing okra productivity through a field experiment conducted in Gajuri, Dhading. A 130 m2 area was divided into six treatment groups, each with four replications, using a Randomized Complete Block Design. The following were the treatments: i) inorganic fertilizer (RF); ii) biochar plus inorganic fertilizer (BF); iii) biochar plus vermicompost (BVC); iv) biochar plus poultry manure (BPM); v) biochar (BC); vi) control; neither biochar nor fertilizer (CK). The recommended rates of urea, di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), and muriate of potash (MOP) were applied to the mineral NPK fertilizers in RF and BF. The rate whereby organic fertilizers were applied was 200 kg N ha-1. Plots treated with biochar and various fertilizer groups were compared in terms of growth and yield efficiency. The BVC treatment was found to exhibit poorer growth performance in terms of plant height, number of leaves, primary branches, and nodes compared to the combination of biochar and poultry manure. Fruit output rose by 170% over CK (7.13 mt ha-1) and by 53.26% over RF (12.58 mt ha-1) after BPM treatment (19.28 mt ha-1). While BF and RF did not significantly differ in terms of growth characteristics, BF outproduced RF by 29% and CK by 126.79% in terms of pod yield. BF and BPM offered greater financial rewards than alternative treatments.

Enhancing Okra Growth and Yield Through Foliar Nutrient Application in Conjunction with Mulching and Drip Irrigation

Background: Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is an important vegetable crop that belongs to family malvaceae and is grown both in tropical and subtropical regions of India. In north-coastal Andhra Pradesh, okra is cultivated frequently so, optimizing the nutrient management practice is an efficient method for increasing yield. Among those practices, foliar fertilizers, mulching and irrigation methods are essential in maximizing the yield and quality of okra. Therefore, the present investigation deals with the combined effects of foliar nutrients, mulching and irrigation methods, providing valuable data for sustainable okra production in a particular area. Methods: The present investigation was conducted during June to September 2023, with seven different treatments using randomized block design. This experiment mainly focuses on combinations of mulching and foliar sprays of 19:19:19 and 13:0:45 at different concentrations. Collected data were analyzed using ANOVA and fisher’s least significant difference test at a 5% significance level. Result: Among all the treatments, 100% RDF along with the foliar application of 19:19:19 @ 1.0% + 13:0:45 @ 2% at 30, 45 and 60 days after sowing has proven the best treatment, where it recorded the highest yield of 101 q per hectare (Q/ha) due to the application of sufficient nutrients. Whereas, the lowest yield was recorded with control plot due to insufficient nutrient supply in relation to growth and yield parameters.

Impact of Plant Spacing and Fertilization Dose on the Growth and Yield Traits of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) in Sudan

This study examines the impact of plant spacing and nitrogen fertilization doses on the growth and yield traits of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) in Sudan. Using a factorial experiment within a completely randomized block design, the research explored four spacing levels within raw, S1, S2, S3, and S4 (20, 25, 30, and 35 cm, respectively) and four nitrogen fertilizer doses, Ur1, Ur2, Ur3 and Ur4 (60, 80, 100, and 120 kg.ha-1 , respectively). Key metrics were measured: plant height, number of leaves, number of nodes, pod length, fresh weight, and seed count per pod. The results, analyzed via OPSTAT statistical software and ANOVA, indicated that a 60 cm × 30 cm spacing combined with a nitrogen dose of 60 kg.ha-1 significantly optimized growth parameters and yield components. Specifically, this combination resulted in the tallest plants (15.50 cm), the highest number of leaves (7.30), nodes (7.30), and greater fresh pod weight (7.69 g) and length (5.50 cm). Significant interaction effects between spacing and fertilizer doses were observed across all parameters at a 5% confidence level. The study recommends a 60 cm × 30 cm spacing with a nitrogen dose of 60 kg.ha-1 to maximize okra growth, yield, and quality in Sudan's agroecological zones, supporting sustainable agricultural practices and enhanced productivity. These findings can be directly applied to optimize okra production in Sudan, contributing to the country's agricultural sustainability.

Effect of integrated pest management practices on the occurrence of pesticide residue in okra cultivated by farmers in Kwara state.

Integrated pest management (IPM) is a sustainable approach for minimizing the negative impacts of pests on crops while reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides. This study was conducted in Kwara State Nigeria in 2023, to investigate the effects of implementation of IPM practices on the occurrence of pesticide residues in okra cultivated by the farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria, and identify the factors affecting the use of IPM practices for pest control in okra production. A sample of 245 okra farmers was selected across 4 agricultural zones of Kwara State using a multistage sampling technique. Additionally, okra samples were collected from the farmers of each community of the local government areas. The data collected from the farmers were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics including frequency count, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and Pearson product moment correlation (PPMC). The collected okra samples were taken to the laboratory for pesticide residue extraction and analysis was performed using gas chromatography (GC)-mass spectrometer (MS). The results showed that most okra producers in Kwara State were smallholder farmers who, despite practicing IPM, had limited knowledge of the technology. Some pesticide residues were detected in okra, out of which two were present in quantities above the maximum residue limit, while others were below the maximum residue limit. Therefore, this study recommends that the government should improve extension services in the State by providing adequate funds and training extension agents who can provide comprehensive training to farmers on the types and application of IPM as an eco-friendly technology for preventing pesticide residue in okra.

Effect of Magnetized Irrigation Water and Seeds on the Production of OKRA (Hibiscus esculentus)

Very recently special magnetic devices have been developed and used to magnetize irrigation water and plant seeds. Such magnetic treatments were reported to play a great role in increasing the germination rate of seeds, reducing soil salinity and consequently resulting in increasing yield. The objectives of the study to improve crop productivity by using magnetic technologies. A split plot experimental design was used for growing two varieties of okra (Hibiscus esculentus). The treatments included: non-magnetized water + non magnetized seeds (NMW+NMS), non-magnetized water + magnetized seeds (NMW+MS), magnetized water + non magnetized seeds (MW+NMS), magnetized water + magnetized seeds (MW+MS). Each treatment was replicated three times. The parameters considered included: number of leaves per plant, leaf length, plant height, plants density and yield. There was a significant difference (p <0.05) between treatments, the combination of (MW) and (MS) gave higher of leaves per plant, plant density, and plant height and leaf length. There was a significant difference (p <0.05) in yield between treatments (MW) recorded increasing in yield by 50% as compared to (NMW); (MW) + (MS) recorded increase in yield by 24% as compared to (NMW); (MS) record increasing in yield by 18% as compared to (NMS) when both were irrigated by (NMW), the combination of (MW) and (MS) gave higher yields for both okra varieties (25.5 and 35.5 Kg/ha). It was concluded that magnetizing water may lead to better crop establishment and further improvement could be achieved by magnetizing the seeds.

A Comparative Study of Spacing and Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth, Yield and Economics of Okra

The present investigation was conducted at Horticultural Experimental Farm, B.A.C.A., Anand Agricultural University, Anand in kharif during 2022 and 2023. Ensuring balanced plant nutrients and spacing is essential for achieving optimal okra production. Optimal plant density supports uniform and healthy growth by effectively utilizing moisture, nutrients, and light, thereby maximizing okra yield. Single source of nutrients whether chemical fertilizers, organic manures or biofertilizers that cannot improve production, productivity and soil health. Sowing okra at 60 × 30 cm spacing observed better leaf area (433.06 and 568.01 cm2) and number of nodes per plant (15.57 and 23.46) at 60 and 90 DAS. While, maximum yield per plot (9.20 kg) and yield per hectare (14.19 t) was found in 45 × 30 cm spacing. Application of 25% RDF + 50% RDN through Vermicompost + NPK consortium 1L/ha recorded maximum yield per plot (9.41 kg) and yield per hectare (15.33 t). With respect to treatment combinations, sowing of okra at 60 × 30 cm spacing with application of 25% RDF + 50% RDN through Vermicompost + NPK consortium 1L/ha recorded the highest leaf area (458.88 and 598.27 cm2) at 60 and 90 DAS. However, maximum yield per plot (10.45 kg) and yield per hectare (16.13 t) was found in 45 × 30 cm spacing with application of 25% RDF + 50% RDN through Vermicompost + NPK consortium 1L/ha. On economic point of view, maximum net realization (218555.21 ₹/ha) and BCR (2.11) was obtained in 45 × 30 cm spacing with application of 25% RDF + 50% RDN through FYM + NPK consortium 1L/ha.

Sensitivity of rainfed okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) to mulch material and plant spacing in drought-prone tropical soils

Mulch regulates soil hydrothermal regime while suppressing weed growth, effects of which may depend on mulch material and/or similar to that of closed crop canopy. Combined use of organic or inorganic material as surface mulch and appropriate plant spacing may produce synergistic agronomic effects in water-stressed environments. This study evaluated the sensitivity of rainfed okra to mulch-spacing variants in droughty derived-savannah soils. With dry-grass mulch (DGM) and sawdust mulch (SDM) representing organic mulch material and black polythene (BPM) as inorganic/plastic, treatments were factorial combinations of surface-applied DGM, SDM and BPM with close (60 cm × 30 cm), intermediate (60 cm × 45 cm) and wide (60 cm × 60 cm) spacings. Crop growth/performance and fruit yield data were collected. Mulch material affected okra growth (with overall better results in BPM than SDM), but not flowering/fruiting and fruit yield. For plant spacing, sum of weights of pods and fruit yield were higher in close than intermediate and wide spacings, with fruit yields as 2.42, 1.21 and 0.76 t ha-1, respectively. Mulch-spacing interaction effects showed that BPM with close spacing gave the highest values for stem girth 8 weeks after sowing (SDM treatments gave the lowest), sum of weights of pods and fruit yield (2.93 t ha-1). Fruit yield, however, depended not on stem girth but on certain okra yield attributes. The BPM or, where not feasible, either of DGM and SDM, could be effectively combined with close spacing to improve okra productivity in droughty soils of the derived savannah.

Effect of Weeding Frequency for the Control of Flea Beetle (Podagrica spp) on the Production and Yield of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) in Zaria, Kaduna State

Field trials were carried out at Samaru, Zaria in the 2022 and 2023 cropping seasons to study the effect of weeding frequencies for the management of flea beetles (Podagrica spp.) on the production and yield of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench). A randomized complete block design (RCBD) replicated four times was used to evaluate the four weeding frequencies: no weeding, one weeding, two weeding, three weeding, and four weeding. Data were collected on the number of beetle populations, the number of flowers produced, number of damaged fruits, number of leaves damaged and the weight of the fruits. The results of the present findings demonstrated that, in comparison to other weeding frequency, fruit yield were higher in plots that were weeded four times, while the populations of flea beetles (Podagrica spp.), number of flowers and leaves damaged were significantly (P<0.05) higher in one, two and four weeding compared with no and three weeding frequencies. Fruit damaged weight was considerably (P≤0.05) decreased in two and three weeding. Thus, as part of integrated pest management (IPM) techniques to optimize flea beetle control, this study highlighted the significance of two and three weeding frequencies

Unravelling the impact of varied organic fertilizer sources on the vegetative and reproductive traits of okra growth and development

Nepal's pursuit of sustainable food production and rural livelihoods faces challenges amid evolving environmental pressures. Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) cultivation, integral to Nepalese agriculture, demands innovative approaches to enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impact. This study investigates the efficacy of varied organic fertilizers on okra growth and development, aiming to identify sustainable alternatives to chemical fertilizers. The research was conducted at the G.P. Koirala College of Agriculture and Research Centre in Sundarharaicha, Morang, Nepal, from June to August 2023. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with eight treatments replicated three times was employed, including recommended NPK dosage and various organic sources. Observations on plant height, primary branches, pods per plant, pod length, diameter, weight per pod, and yield per plant were recorded. Statistical analysis revealed significant variations among treatments. The highest yield was obtained with the recommended NPK dosage (108.84 g/plant), closely followed by biofertilizers like 100% mustard cake (103.70 g/plant) and goat manure (104.28 g/plant). The lowest yield was observed in the control group (76.99 g/plant). Notably, NPK fertilizer consistently outperformed organic alternatives in promoting okra growth and yield. However, among organic fertilizers, mustard cake and goat manure emerged as promising alternatives, showcasing comparable results to synthetic fertilizers. These findings underscore the importance of balanced nutrient management in optimizing okra productivity. Future research should explore integrated nutrient management strategies, combining organic and synthetic inputs, to enhance sustainability and resilience in Nepalese agriculture.

Soil chemical attributes and okra productivity under organic fertilizer in two cultivation cycles

Os solos nas regiões semiáridas geralmente apresentam baixos níveis de matéria orgânica, devido a factores pedogenéticos do solo, e é notável que a aplicação de fertilizantes orgânicos ao solo aumenta a sua fertilidade e o rendimento das culturas. Assim, o objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar os efeitos da adubação orgânica do solo nos atributos químicos de um Neossolo Flúvico e na produtividade do quiabeiro em dois ciclos de cultivo. Os tratamentos foram distribuídos em blocos casualizados no esquema fatorial 5 x 2, referente a cinco doses de esterco bovino com relação C/N de 18:1 para aumentar o teor de matéria orgânica no solo de 1,8% para 2,8; 3,8; 4,8 e 5,8% e dois ciclos de cultivo (1º e 2º ciclos) com quatro repetições. As variáveis ​​analisadas foram pH do solo, P, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+ no solo, S.O.M e produtividade de quiabo. Os resultados foram submetidos à análise de variância por meio do teste F para verificar a homogeneidade entre os resíduos. Posteriormente, foi realizada análise conjunta para diagnosticar efeitos significativos por meio do teste F e regressões lineares e polinomiais foram aplicadas para desdobrar o S.O.M em um ciclo. A adubação orgânica com esterco bovino aumentou os teores de P, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+ e matéria orgânica do solo (S.O.M) e a produtividade dos frutos comerciais de quiabo.

Okra cultivation under irrigation with saline water and foliar application of hydrogen peroxide

Foliar application of hydrogen peroxide can induce plant defense mechanisms against salt stress, favoring plant acclimation in regions with qualitative and quantitative scarcity of water resources, such as the Brazilian semi-arid region. From this perspective, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of foliar hydrogen peroxide application on chlorophyll a fluorescence, growth, and production of okra under irrigation with saline water. The experiment was conducted under field conditions in Pombal, PB, using a randomized block design with a 5 × 3 factorial arrangement corresponding to five electrical conductivity levels of water – ECw (0.3, 1.3, 2.3, 3.3, and 4.3 dS m-1) and three hydrogen peroxide concentrations – H2O2 (0, 25, and 50 μM), with five replications. Irrigation water salinity levels up to 2.2 dS m-1 increase the maximum fluorescence of okra plants 75 days after transplanting. Foliar application of 50 µM hydrogen peroxide proved to be beneficial for plant height, stem diameter, stem dry matter, root dry matter, and total dry matter of okra when plants were grown in low-salinity water. The hydrogen peroxide concentrations of 25 and 50 µM increased the number of leaves. However, these concentrations reduced the average weight of the okra dry fruits. Foliar application with 50 µM hydrogen peroxide had a significant effect on the dry leaf phytomass of the okra cv. Clemson American 80 regardless of the electrical conductivity of irrigation water. Foliar hydrogen peroxide application at concentrations up to 50 µM intensifies the deleterious effects of salt stress on the total weight of dried okra fruits. Keywords: Abelmoschus esculentus L., acclimation, salt stress.

Effect of four different types of vermicomposts on okra productivity and farm income

Organic based fertilizers is crucial for maintaining soil fertility, increasing crop production, and mitigating climate change. Among various organic fertilizers, vermicompost (VC) has been found to be one of the promising options for enhancing soil fertility and productivity. However, there are limited studies on the agronomic effects of vermicomposts in Nepal. In this study, a pot culture experiment was conducted inside a greenhouse to assess the agronomic and economic effects of four different commercially available vermicomposts, available in both reduced and original moisture forms, on okra. Nine treatments with three replications were arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD). These treatments included Divya vermicompost with both reduced (DvRM: 28.82 %) and original moisture (DvOM: 62.17 %); Praramva vermicompost with reduced (PvRM: 29.63 %) and original moisture (PvOM: 54.65 %), Bio-Comp vermicompost with reduced (BvRM: 26.75 %) and original moisture (BvOM: 49.77 %), Sathi vermicompost with reduced (SvRM: 28.52 %) and original moisture (SvOM: 65.18 %), and a control (CK: non-fertilized treatment). All VC treatments, whether in reduced or original moisture forms, showed better performance on plant growth parameters and fruit yield compared to the control. There was no significant difference between the four types of VCs, in either moisture form. The average number of fruits per pot in VC treatments (ranging from 5.5 to 8.0 fruits per pot) increased by 94 % compared to CK (3.5 fruits). Similarly, total fruit yield increased by 126 % in VC treatments (ranging from 16213 kg ha−1 to 23193 kg ha−1) compared to the CK (8260 kg ha−1). The benefit to cost ratio (B:C) of all the VCs was above 1 (B:C > 1), ranging from 1.00 to 1.59, illustrating the economic benefit of using vermicompost in okra cultivation. The findings suggest that farmers should consider the widespread use of vermicomposts to increase both crop productivity and farm profitability, thereby sustaining their livelihoods.

Effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Quality of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench)

The study, conducted at the Agricultural Research Farm, School of Agriculture, S.G.V.U., Jaipur (Rajasthan) during the Rabi season of 2022-23, examined the impact of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the growth, yield, and quality of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench). Using a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 13 treatment combinations, including control and various mixes of fertilizers with organic amendments like farmyard manure, vermicompost, poultry manure, neem cake, and biofertilizers, the research found that treatment T5 (75% RDF + 25% N through Vermicompost) had a notable impact on vegetative development, yield, and quality indices, also showing the highest benefit-to-cost ratio of 2.26 compared to the control group's 1.14. The combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers significantly improved Okra's growth, yield, and quality, with T5 demonstrating the best performance in plant height, fruit yield, and quality traits like ascorbic acid and sugar content, highlighting its potential for sustainable and profitable okra production and the benefits of integrating organic manures with inorganic fertilizers for enhancing crop productivity and soil health.

A Survey on the Diversity of Field Insect Pests of Okro (Abelmoschus Esculentus) within the Six Adp Zones in Akwaibom State

A survey was conducted to determine the diversity and abundance of insect pests associated with okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) across the six Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) zones in Akwa Ibom state namely; Uyo, Abak, Eket, Ikot ekpene, Etinan and Oron using multi – stage random sampling technique, swoop nets for flying insects, aspirators for collecting tiny insects, pair of forceps and hand picking for larvae and slow moving insects. A total of 634 insects were collected across the six zones and identified into 4 orders, 13 families and 15 species. The dominant order by specie was Hemiptera having (6/40%) followed by Lepidoptera (4/26.67%), Coleoptera (3/20%) and the least was Orthoptera having (2/13.33%) while dominant order by individuals was Coleoptera having 279/44.01%), followed by Hemiptera (244 /38.49%), Lepidoptera (68/10.73%) and the least was Orthoptera (43/6.78%). Dominant insect specie across the six zones was Flea beetle (Podagrica sp.) with total population of 185 followed by Aphids (Aphis gossypii - 98) and the least was Cabbage looper (Trichoplusia ni – 7). Diversity index result showed that Eket zone had the highest no. of individuals (122) with the least no. of species (12) and least Shannon index value (H_ 2.11) followed by Oron zone with 112 individuals, no. species (13) and shannon index ( H_2.31). Uyo zone had the least no. of individuals (93), no. species (13) and Shannon index (H_2.21) while Ikot ekpene zone had the highest Shannon index value (H_2.34) and highest no. of species (14) with no. of individual (101). This study reveals that there is high diversity and abundance of insect species attacking okra in Akwa Ibom State hence drastic control measures is imperative for successful and profitable production of Okra.

Optimization of irrigation (ETc) and nitrogen levels under drip fertigation in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) using response surface methodology (RSM)

A comprehensive field investigation was conducted to enhance the productivity, profitability, and water use efficiency (WUE) of summer okra through the optimization of irrigation and nitrogen fertilizer application. The study involved 3 irrigation levels – 0.75 Epan (pan evaporation) as I1, 1.00 Epan as I2, and 1.25 Epan as I3 – as the main plot factors, and 4 nitrogen concentrations – 75% recommended nitrogen dose (RDN) as N1, 100% RDN as N2, 125% RDN as N3, and 150% RDN as N4 – as the subplot variables. The results of the study revealed a significant influence of irrigation and nitrogen levels on various key parameters. Above-ground dry matter, yield, plant height, WUE, net returns, and benefit-to-cost ratio (B:C) exhibited an incremental trend with increasing irrigation and nitrogen levels, up to a certain threshold. Beyond this threshold, further increments in irrigation and nitrogen led to diminishing returns. The models developed for estimating crop yield, above-ground dry matter, plant height, WUE, net returns, and B:C demonstrated impressive accuracy, with high coefficients of determination (R2) and satisfactory precision. The optimized irrigation level (crop evapotranspiration, ETc) ranged from 418.39–441.23 mm. At the same time, the ideal nitrogen application rate was found to be in the range of 167.04–176.13 kg N/ha. These optimal conditions resulted in peak crop yield of 28 295 kg/ha, above-ground dry matter of 6 709.1 kg/ha, plant height of 66.3 cm, WUE of 5.26 kg/m3, B:C of 4.54, and net returns amounting to 441 133 INR/ha. In conclusion, the application of response surface methodology facilitated the identification of the impact of each factor on individual responses, as well as the determination of optimal conditions that simultaneously maximize multiple desirable outcomes. These findings hold significant promise for improving the cultivation of summer okra while optimizing resource use and economic returns.

Performance of Different Hybrids of Okra under Prayagraj Agro-climatic Conditions

This research evaluates the performance of different hybrids of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) under the agro-climatic conditions of Prayagraj. Okra, originating from sub-tropical Africa, holds economic significance and is cultivated widely across diverse regions. Understanding the performance of okra hybrids is vital for maximizing productivity and ensuring food security. The study assesses growth parameters such as plant height, leaf area, and number of branches, along with yield parameters including fruit characteristics and days to flowering. Quality parameters such as Vitamin C and Total Soluble Solids (TSS) are also considered. Economic aspects such as cost of cultivation, gross return, and cost ratio are analysed. Results reveal significant variations among hybrids, with certain hybrids demonstrating superior performance. Hybrid H7 emerges as promising, exhibiting robust growth and high yield potential. These findings offer valuable insights for optimizing okra cultivation practices and enhancing productivity in the Prayagraj region. Further research is recommended to refine hybrid selection and cultivation techniques for sustainable okra production.

Advances in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) Breeding: Integrating Genomics for Enhanced Crop Improvement

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) holds significant importance as a vegetable crop, thriving in tropical and subtropical regions globally, especially in the warmer areas of temperate zones. Traditional breeding approaches tailored for self-pollinated crops have been utilized to enhance the genetic diversity of okra. These methods encompass various techniques such as plant introduction, pure line selection, hybridization combined with selection, mutation breeding, and heterosis breeding. Particularly in countries like India, pedigree selection and heterosis breeding have led to the development of numerous okra varieties and hybrids, significantly impacting local agricultural practices. Contemporary okra breeding focuses on traits crucial for optimal performance, including high yield potential, resistance to prevalent diseases like Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus (YVMV) and Okra Enation Leaf Curl Virus (OELCV), tolerance to sucking pests and borers, ease of harvest, deep green fruit coloration, and desirable plant architecture. Public sector institutions have played a pivotal role in introducing and disseminating improved okra varieties and hybrids, with more than 33 cultivars introduced in recent decades. Some of these varieties have demonstrated substantial improvements in okra production across India. This review offers an overview of the current state of okra breeding, encompassing genetic resources, cytogenetic relationships, breeding goals, varietal development processes, efforts in resistance breeding, biotechnological interventions, and future improvement strategies. By consolidating existing knowledge and highlighting ongoing research initiatives, this article aims to provide guidance and inspiration for further advancements in okra breeding and genomics, ultimately contributing to the sustainability and productivity of this essential vegetable crop.

Effects of microbial biofertilizer on growth, physio-biochemical traits, fruit yield, and water productivity of okra under drought stress

Drought poses a major challenge to global agricultural crop production, as it is considered one of the most severe abiotic stresses. Understanding the effects of exogenous microbial biofertilizer on okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] under drought stress can lead to new strategies for coping with drought conditions. The objective of the study was to examine the effects of microbial biofertilizer on growth, physio-biochemical traits, fruit yield, and water productivity of okra under drought stress. A factorial pot experiment, consisting of eight biofertilizer treatments applied as a soil drench (autoclaved inoculum [control], and inoculation with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi [AMF], phosphate-solubilizing fungi [PSF], plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria [PGPR], AMF + PSF, AMF + PGPR, PGPR + PSF, and AMF + PSF + PGPR) and three soil moisture regimes (50%, 75%, and 100% field capacity [FC]), was carried out. The results indicated that decreasing soil moisture level severely affected growth and fruit yield of okra. The application of microbial biofertilizer effectively enhanced growth, fruit yield, and physio-biochemical traits of okra under different soil moisture levels. Among the biofertilizer treatments considered, the combined application of AMF and PGPR showed remarkable efficacy in enhancing growth and productivity of okra plants under both 75% and 100% FC conditions. This co-inoculation significantly boosted shoot dry matter by 51%, root dry matter by 73%, fruit yield by 113%, and irrigation water productivity by 122% compared with plants grown without inoculation, irrespective of soil moisture levels. Furthermore, the plants treated with AMF and PGPR exhibited a noteworthy decrease in free proline accumulation by 31% compared with their non-inoculated counterparts. The results suggest that application of both AMF and PGPR biofertilizer to soil is an effective strategy to alleviate moderate drought stress. It is recommended to apply AMF and PGPR in combination to improve okra yield and water productivity under drought stress.