Evaluating the response of different synthetic and organic fertilizers on carrot vegetative and reproductive characteristics in Gothgaun, Nepal

Abstract

This research aimed to assess the influence of various chemical and organic fertilizers on the vegetative and reproductive characteristics of the ‘New Kuroda’ variety of carrots (Daucus carota). The study included the recommended dose (RD) of NPK (80:60:60 kg ha-1), individual components of N (80 kg ha-1), P (60 kg ha-1), and K (60 kg ha-1), as well as organic sources such as goat manure (15 tons ha-1 ), farmyard manure (FYM) (20 tons ha-1), and a control group without any fertilizer. Growth and reproductive traits were measured at 45, 55, 65, 75, and 85 days after sowing. The results indicated that the recommended NPK dose consistently outperformed other fertilizer sources, enhancing both vegetative and reproductive parameters. The highest yield of 10.94 tons ha-1 was achieved with NPK fertilizer, whereas organic sources such as goat manure demonstrated the second-highest growth and development traits. The control group exhibited the lowest growth and development parameters. These results show that these fertilizer sources considerably influence the vegetative and reproductive development of the ‘New Kuroda’ carrot variety. The outcomes indicate how various fertilizer sources may significantly improve the vegetative and reproductive growth of the ‘New Kuroda’ carrot; the recommended dosage of NPK in conjunction with the supply of goat manure stands out as an appropriate technique for producing carrots. This illustrates how applying a balanced dosage of these fertilizers may lead to increased carrot yield