Influence of application of organic sources on pea (Pisum sativum L.) growth and changes in soil nutrient status

Abstract

The application of organic sources in agriculture has received considerable attention due to their potential to improve soil health and produce quality. The present study was carried out to investigate the impact of agnihotra ash - a byproduct of the ancient Vedic fire ritual and other organic sources such as compost, vermicompost and jeevamrut on pea (Pisum sativum L.) growth and changes in soil nutrient availability. The field experiment was conducted using randomized complete block design with ten treatments. Each plot received an application of organic source before sowing. The organic sources used in the study were supposed to have sufficient ability to supply the required amount of nutrients to sustain crop growth. Agnihotra ash outnumbered the other organic sources and improved the pea growth parameters such as root length (18 cm), shoot length (69 cm), dry root and shoot biomass (0.34 g, 5.9 g), number of pods/plants (22), number of seeds/pod (6.1) and test weight (27 g). The results revealed that among various organic sources, agnihotra ash contained a higher concentration of macro and micronutrients which helped in improving the growth and yield of pea. The available nutrient status of the soil also registered an increase with the addition of organic sources. The results suggest that agnihotra ash can be utilized as a promising source for organic and natural farming, particularly for vegetable crops.