Effect of different sources of nitrogen on the growth and yield of Spinach (Spinacea oleracea L.)

Abstract

Abstract A field experiment was conducted to find the effect of different sources of nitrogen on the growth and yield of spinach. This experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design, with ten treatments and three replicationsin a variety, Patane Palungo. The treatments consist of control, 100% N through FYM, vermicompost, and poultry manure, 50% N through urea with 50% N through FYM, vermicompost, and poultry manure, and 75% N through urea with 25% N through FYM, vermicompost, and poultry manure. The data analysis was done using R Studio. The result showed the application of 50% N through urea with 50% N through vermicompost, 50% N through urea with 50% N through poultry manure, and 100% N through poultry manure showed statistically similar yields to the recommended dose of chemical fertilizers. In the first harvesting, the highest yield was obtained in T10 (14.80 ton/ha) which was statistically similar to T6 (50% N through urea + 50% N through vermicompost) (12.85ton/ha). In second harvesting the highest yield was obtained in T7 (20.90ton/ha) which was statistically similar with T10 (16.70ton/ha) and T6 (11.251ton/ha). This result showed that in leafy vegetables which are consumed as fresh vegetable, locally available nitrogenous fertilizer or their combination with small 25- 50% chemical fertilizers could be utilized to achieve the same or higher yield. The choice of nitrogen source insights into sustainable agricultural practices, promoting eco-friendly nutrient management, improving crop yield and quality, and ultimately contributing to the overall food security.