Physiological attributes of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) influenced by different sources of nutrients at foothill of eastern Himalayan region
The present investigation was aimed to assess the influence of different organic manures (Farmyard manure and vermicompost), inorganic fertilizers and Azophos biofertilizer on different physiological attributes of tomato. The field experiment was conducted during 2005-06 and 2006-07 at Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya (UBKV), Pundibari, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, India by combining 14 treatments in randomized block design with 3 replications. The results revealed that nutrient sources significantly influenced different physiological attributes as the chlorophyll content of leaves and LAI (Leaf area index) kept on increasing and peaked at 60 DAT(Days after transplanting) and 75 DAT respectively and declined thereafter. The dry matter production was highest at 75 DAT. Again application of vermicompost (4 t/ha) with 75% of inorganic fertilizers inoculated with biofertilizer resulted in significant improvement of physiological attributes as well as yield. Vermicompost emerged as better organic nutrient source over farmyard manure. Inoculation with biofertilizer exerted more positive results over uninoculated treatments and benefits of biofertilizer application were more in presence of vermicompost as compared to farmyard manure.