Effect of Different Organic Nutrient Sources on the Germination and Seedling Growth of Jowar (Sorghum bicolor) and Bajra (Pennisetum glaucum)

Abstract

Aim: This study is to examine how different organic and inorganic variations, such as sand, cow dung, vermicompost, and cocopeat, affect the germination of jowar (Sorghum bicolor) and bajra (Pennisetum glaucum) seeds in a growth chamber environment. Study Design: The study was conducted using a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications.  Location and Length of Study: April–May 2025, Department of Botany, Mata Jijabai Govt PG Girls College, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India.  Methodology: In this study, the germination and early seedling development of two drought-tolerant cereal crops—jowar (Sorghum bicolor) and bajra (Pennisetum glaucum)—are examined in relation to various organic and natural growing media, including vermicompost, cow dung, cocopeat, sand, and their combinations. Under carefully monitored laboratory conditions, germination speed, and germination percentage. Results: Vermicompost and cocopeat together greatly improved seedling vigor and germination performance, demonstrating the synergistic effects of high nutrient availability and moisture retention. While cocopeat maintained rapid germination rates, vermicompost alone showed strong support for root and shoot growth. Despite being high in organic matter, cow dung promoted moderate to strong seedling growth but produced relatively lower germination percentages. While cocopeat maintained rapid germination rates, vermicompost alone showed strong support for root and shoot growth. Despite being high in organic matter, cow dung promoted moderate to strong seedling growth but produced relatively lower germination percentages. Although sand had the highest initial germination rate, its low nutrient and water-holding capacity prevented it from supporting the growth of subsequent seedlings. The results highlight how crucial it is to choose the right growing media for the best seedling performance and imply that a vermicompost and cocopeat mixture provides an affordable, sustainable substitute for enhancing crop establishment and germination in rainfed and low-input agricultural systems. Conclusion: These observations can improve the yield of resilient crops in marginal soils and guide organic farming methods.