Effect of liquid biofertilizers and inorganic fertilizers on growth attributes of broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica)

The investigation was carried out at the Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, VNMKV, Parbhani (M.S.) during Rabi 2018-19 to study the effect of liquid biofertilizers and inorganic fertilizers on growth attributes of broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) Cv. Green magic. Two factors were taken, the first factor was the chemical fertilizers at three levels (125%, 100% and 75% of RDF) and the second factor was the different biofertilizers (Azotobacter, PSB and Azotophos). The experimental design adopted was factorial randomized block design with 12 treatment combinations. The results revealed that the individual effect of chemical fertilizers at level 100% RDF (120:80:60 kg/ha) and biofertilizers level Azotophos showed a significant difference in growth characters compared to the other levels. The characters viz., plant height (59.10 cm), Girth of main stem (20.00 cm), number of leaves (23.07 cm), length of leaves (48.78 cm), width of leaves (22.07 cm), weight of curd (650.33 g), days to curd initiation (45.35) and days to harvesting (54.42) of broccoli were recorded the highest value with application of 125% + Azotophos. The use of biofertilizers in combination with the chemical fertilizers would increase growth characters and also aid in adding steps towards sustainable crop production by conserving the soil health.