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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Vol. 12 No. sp4 (2025): Recent Advances in Agriculture by Young Minds - III

Synergistic effects of nutrient management and plant density on modulating the growth, yield and quality of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) hybrids

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.12217
Submitted
11 October 2025
Published
15-12-2025

Abstract

Integrated recommendations on hybrid selection, planting density and nutrient management for broccoli are still lacking for the eastern dry zone of Karnataka, representing a key research gap. The study evaluated the influence of hybrid, planting density and nutrient management on broccoli growth, yield and quality over two consecutive Rabi seasons (2023-24 and 2024-25) at Sanjeevini Vatika, Department of Horticulture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Gandhi Krishi Vigyana Kendra (GKVK), Bengaluru, Karnataka. The experiment was conducted using a factorial randomized complete block design (FRCBD) with three replications, involving three factors. The study assessed morphological, yield and quality parameters, including plant height, leaf area, chlorophyll content, head diameter, stalk thickness, vitamin C, total soluble solids and physiological weight loss. The NS1250 and Saki hybrids under optimal spacing and higher fertilization consistently outperformed the Lucky hybrid, showing superior growth traits, earlier harvest, higher yields and enhanced nutritional quality, such as elevated vitamin C and total soluble solids. Wider spacing promoted larger leaf area and head size, while closer spacing expedited harvest. High nutrient input favoured overall plant vigor and reduced physiological weight loss. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of integrated management strategies for maximizing broccoli productivity and quality, offering robust recommendations for sustainable cultivation across similar agro-climatic regions.

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