Comparative Evaluation of Growth and Yield Parameters of Different Okra Varieties in Lamjung, Nepal

Abstract

Aims: This research aimed to evaluate the performance of different okra varieties in Lamjung district, Nepal, to identify high-yielding cultivars suitable for local cultivation. Study Design: The study used a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with seven okra varieties (treatments) and three replications per treatment, totaling 21 plots. Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted in Beshishar, Lamjung District, Nepal. Data collection and experimentation were carried out over the growing season of okra. Methodology: Growth and yield parameters including plant height, number of leaves and primary branches per plant, days to first flowering, number of nodes at first flowering, number of pods per plant, pod length, pod weight, yield per plant, and yield per hectare were measured and recorded from selected plants within each plot. Statistical analysis was done to compare the performance of different varieties. Results: Significant variations were observed across the varieties, with F1 Glory and Arka Anamika outperforming others. F1 Glory showed the highest plant height at 106.4 cm and the maximum yield at 9.02 t/ha, followed closely by Arka Anamika with a plant height of 88 cm and a yield of 8.45 t/ha. In contrast, Parvati recorded the lowest plant height at 63.33 cm and yield at 6.08 t/ha. Additionally, F1 Glory had the highest number of leaves (26.60 per plant), primary branches (3.15 per plant), and the longest pod length (14.94 cm), further contributing to its superior yield. The variety also achieved the highest pod weight, averaging 15.85 g per pod, which was significantly higher than S-51's 11.19 g per pod. Arka Anamika, while slightly behind F1 Glory, still showed robust performance with a pod length of 13.94 cm, an average pod weight of 14.49 g, and a similar number of leaves (22.80 per plant). Parvati, on the other hand, consistently underperformed in all agronomic traits, with a pod length of 10.45 cm, a lower number of primary branches (1.74 per plant), and the smallest number of leaves (13.60 per plant). Conclusion: The findings indicate that varieties viz., F1 Glory and Arka Anamika excelled in yield and growth parameters in Lamjung district. These varieties could enhance local productivity by addressing current challenges in okra cultivation. This study gives valuable insights for selecting suitable okra varieties and enhancing agricultural sustainability and economic outcomes.