Effect of multiplex yield enhancers on ridge gourd growth and yield parameter along with pest and disease incidence

Abstract

Multiplex yield enhancers were evaluated in ridge gourd crops at the College of Horticulture in Bengaluru to study their impact on growth parameters, yield parameters, pest and disease incidence. The combination of bio-organic manure, secondary and micronutrients along with biostimulants and recommended dose of fertilizers showed an initial increase in the height of the plant. Treatment T13 showed the highest number of branches (1.44 and 3.11) at 30 and 60 days after planting, while treatment T4 showed the highest number of leaves. Treatment T16, which included Annapurna, Samrddhi, Organic magik, Zinc high, and Navjeevan G recorded the highest number of fruits ( 29) and yield per vine (1768.33 g). Treatment T14 demonstrated a lower percent disease index of powdery mildew at 8.52, while T5 (7.95) recorded a lower percent disease index of downy mildew. Similarly, the treatment that included Bio Jodi reduced the infestation of pests and diseases. The various multiplex yield enhancers worked variably at different stages of the crop as required. The combination of organic and chemical fertilizers works synergistically to improve the yield of the ridge gourd crop.