Optimizing Hybrid Eggplant Production: A Comparative Assessment of Drip Fertigation and Conventional Fertilization on Vegetative Growth, Agricultural Productivity and Water Utilization Efficiency

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the comparative effects of drip fertigation and conventional fertilization on vegetative growth, fruit yield, and water utilization efficiency in hybrid eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) cultivation, with a focus on identifying an economically optimal fertigation level. A field experiment was conducted using a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with five treatments and four replications at Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra, India, during the Rabi season (November 2021 to May 2022). Treatments included drip fertigation at 75%, 100%, 125%, and 150% of the Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF) and a control with conventional fertilization at 100% RDF. Key parameters such as plant height, number of branches, fruits per plant, total yield, and water utilization efficiency were assessed. Results indicated that all drip fertigation treatments significantly outperformed conventional fertilization. The highest yield (470.33 q/ha) and water use efficiency (8.54 q/ha-cm) were recorded in the 150% RDF drip fertigation treatment, followed closely by 125% RDF (467.98 q/ha), with both showing statistical parity. The lowest yield and efficiency were observed under conventional fertilization. Based on the findings, drip fertigation at 125% RDF is recommended as the most agronomically efficient and economically viable approach for maximizing hybrid eggplant productivity while optimizing resource use.