Amit Kumar Singh, Satendra Kumar, Mukesh Kumar, Sunil Malik, S.P Singh, Bhim Singh, Mahima Sharma, Rishubh Motla, Subham Yadav and Prasoon Kumar Rai
Abstract
The present investigation was conducted during 2023-24 and 2024-25 at the Horticultural Research Center, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Modipuram, Meerut (U.P.), to study the conjoint application of organic and inorganic nutrient sources on vegetative growth of Gladiolus (Gladiolus hybridus Hort.) cv. White Prosperity. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications, comprising 13 treatments integrating farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost, Panchagavya, and Jeevamrit along with chemical fertilizers. Among these, T8 (75% RDF + 5 t/ha vermicompost + Panchagavya + Jeevamrit) exhibited significant superiority by recording maximum plant height (122.16 cm), plant spread (32.34 cm), number of leaves per plant (9.90), leaf area index (2.86), leaf length (47.54 cm), leaf width (3.88 cm), stem length (108.87 cm), and stem diameter (1.69 cm). In contrast, the minimum values for all traits were observed in the control (T1), which received no nutrient inputs. The superiority of T8 may be attributed to the synergistic role of organic amendments and reduced chemical inputs that improved nutrient availability, soil fertility, and microbial activity. Furthermore, Panchagavya and Jeevamrit, rich in natural growth-promoting substances, enhanced rhizospheric activity, resulting in improved growth. These results emphasize the potential of integrated nutrient management (INM) in boosting vegetative growth, improving soil health, reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers, and promoting sustainable floriculture.