On-field assessment of mulching materials for weed control and its impact on yield and economics in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (l). moench)

On-field assessment trail was conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Madhopur at different places in West Champaran District of Bihar during two consecutive years i.e., 2019–2020 and 2020–2021 regarding to assess the efficacy of mulching materials to reduce the weed infestation and enhancing yield and economics of okra. The treatments consisted of three different mulching materials (mulching with black polythene sheet, mulching with paddy straw and mulching with sugarcane leaves) and one control plot was also kept where farmers practice (hand weeding and no mulch) was carried out. The effect of mulching materials on okra yield was found significant. The highest okra yield (149.11 kg/ha) was obtained under mulching with black polythene sheet followed by mulching with paddy straw (117.39 kg/ha) and mulching with sugarcane leaves (111.06 kg/ha) whereas, it was lowest in farmer's practice (94.78 q/ha). Minimum weed density (5.45/m²) was recorded significantly under mulching with black polythene sheet whereas maximum was under farmer's practice (74.06/m²). Maximum average benefit cost ratio was achieved under mulching with black polythene sheet (4.56) followed by mulching with paddy straw (3.77) and mulching with sugarcane leaves (3.69) However, minimum was under farmer's practice (2.90). Mulching with black polythene sheet was found significantly superior over all the treatments including framer's practice in terms of days after sowing to first harvest, fruit weight (yields) and total number of harvests. It is concluded that using black polythene mulch as soil covering was significantly increased yield of okra due to maintain soil moisture content and reduction of weed flora density. This would sustainably increase the income as well as the livelihood of the farmers.