G. Swaroop Rani and P. Sujathamma
Abstract
This study evaluates the impact of various organic and inorganic treatments on soil health, plant growth, and yield of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.). Eight treatments were tested, including a control (T0), Jeevamrutha (T1), Panchagavya (T2), NPK fertilizer (T3), and various Rhizobium combinations (T4-T6) alongside vermicompost (T7). Key soil parameters assessed included pH, water-holding capacity, electrical conductivity, organic matter content, and nutrient availability. Plant traits considered included germination percentage, plant height, chlorophyll content, grain yield, and stover yield. Results indicated that organic treatments significantly improved soil health, enhancing water-holding capacity, reducing salinity, and increasing organic matter and nutrient availability. Among the treatments, T6 (Rhizobium + Jeevamrutha + Panchagavya) emerged as the most effective, demonstrating superior soil pH buffering and higher nutrient retention. Notable plant growth parameters under T6 included chlorophyll content (52.43 ± 4.34 SPAD), grain yield (1678 ± 64.3 kg/ha), and stover yield (2854 ± 36.5 kg/ha), highlighting the synergistic benefits of integrated organic inputs. In contrast, NPK fertilizer (T3) showed limited improvements and negatively impacted organic matter and micronutrient levels, indicating the drawbacks of inorganic fertilizers for sustaining soil fertility. The findings underscore the potential of organic farming practices to promote sustainable crop productivity and environmental health. Future research should focus on the economic feasibility of these treatments and their long-term effects on soil and crop quality.