Physiological Response and Growth Dynamics of Cape Gooseberry under Integrated Nutrient Management

Abstract

Cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) is an important minor fruit crop valued for its nutritional and medicinal properties. Its growth and productivity depend greatly on appropriate nutrient management. Integrated nutrient management (INM), which combines chemical fertilisers with organic manures and biofertilisers, improves soil health, nutrient availability and plant physiological efficiency. However, limited information is available on its effects on growth and physiological indices under Andhra Pradesh conditions. A field experiment was conducted during 2023–24 and 2024–25 at the College Farm, College of Horticulture, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Venkataramannagudem, Andhra Pradesh, to evaluate the physiological response and growth dynamics of cape gooseberry under integrated nutrient management. The experiment was laid out in a randomised block design with nine treatments and three replications, involving different combinations of inorganic fertilisers, farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost and biofertilisers (Azotobacter, PSB and KRB). Observations on leaf area index (LAI), crop growth rate (CGR), relative growth rate (RGR) and net assimilation rate (NAR) were recorded from 30 to 150 days after transplanting. Among the treatments, T3, comprising 75% recommended dose of nitrogen through inorganic fertilisers along with 25% nitrogen through FYM and vermicompost, supplemented with Azotobacter, PSB and KRB, recorded superior performance for all parameters. This treatment registered the highest LAI (2.11), CGR (7.25 g m⁻² day⁻¹), RGR (0.0554 g g⁻¹ day⁻¹) and NAR (0.0353 g cm⁻² day⁻¹) during the crop growth period. Better nutrient uptake, increased microbial activity and a balanced nutrient supply may have contributed to improved growth and physiological efficiency under T3. The findings demonstrated that the integrated application of inorganic fertilisers, organic manures and biofertilisers enhanced physiological efficiency and growth dynamics of cape gooseberry, with 75% RDN through inorganic fertilisers combined with 25% N through FYM and vermicompost, along with Azotobacter, PSB and KRB, emerging as the most effective nutrient management strategy.