Optimizing Crop Performance: Foliar Strategies For Improved Resilience Under Stressful Environments

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of foliar application of nutrients and growth regulators on physiological traits under water stress conditions in finger millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn). Conducted at the Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla, during the rabi season of 2022-23, the experiment employed a Randomized Block Design with eight treatments, including a control group subjected to no stress (irrigation as needed) and various foliar treatments applied during water stress at the flowering stage. Physiological parameters such as Crop Growth Rate (CGR), Leaf Area Index (LAI), Relative Water Content (RWC), and SPAD Chlorophyll Meter Readings (SCMR) were assessed at post-flowering. Results revealed significant variations in physiological traits among different foliar treatments. Notably, the treatment combining 19:19:19 NPK @ 2%, Brassinosteroid (Double 0.04% a.i.) (0.5 ppm), and Salicylic Acid (100 ppm) (Consortia -T8) exhibited the most promising outcomes, with values comparable to the irrigated control. This treatment demonstrated superior CGR, LAI, RWC, and SCMR, suggesting its effectiveness in mitigating the adverse effects of water stress on finger millet. The study concludes that foliar application of the specified nutrient and growth regulator combination holds potential for enhancing physiological aspects and, consequently, improving yield under water stress conditions in finger millet. The findings lay a foundation for further research into foliar strategies for crop resilience across diverse crops and stress environments.