Comparative Analysis of Growth Responses in Indian Mustard to Azotobacter Priming and Vermicompost for Sustainable Cultivation

Abstract

A study investigating the responses of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) to biopriming with Azotobacter, incorporation of vermicompost and their comparative analysis was performed in 2024 Rabi season in new alluvial zone at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia district, West Bengal. The research involved ten genotypes of Indian mustard and four treatments in completely randomized design. Treatments were designed as seeds sown in field soil, Azotobacter-primed seeds in field soil, seeds sown in vermicompost mixed with field soil, and Azotobacter-primed seeds in vermicompost with field soil. Eight key parameters were considered i.e.  germination rate, seedling fresh and dry weight, seedling length, vigour index I and II, proline, and chlorophyll content. Results established improvements in germination and other growth parameters, particularly with the treatment combining Azotobacter priming and vermicompost, which presented the highest values across most genotypes. The performance of TM 306 - 1 and TBM 143 genotypes had produced the best results. The results emphasize the potential for utilizing biofertilizers and organic amendments in sustainable mustard cultivation, providing an effective substitute for chemical fertilizers.