Trends in Biosciences

In India, high yielding varieties are being used to produce food for growing population with fusion of irrigation, fertilizers and pesticides. Although this high yielding production technology has helped to produce food surplus but it has also contributed to environmental hazards including concern on soil health, environmental pollution and pesticide toxicity. Organic farming can provide quality food without adversely affecting soil health and environment. Afield experiment was conducted to assess the effect of different organic manures (Vermicompost, FYM, Poultry manure, Neem cake and press mud) and bio- fertilizers (Azospirillum and Phosphorous solubilizing bacteria) on biochemical, quality and yield components. The experiment was conducted in a Randomized Complete Block design with three replications and eleven treatments. Application of organic manure and bio-fertilizers significantly influenced the growth and yield of carrot. Yield components viz., root length, root diameter and fresh weight of root were significantly higher with the application of RDF+ Azospirillum (500g/ha). The various biochemical parameters (total chlorophyll and Nitrate reductase activity) and quality parameters (carotene content) were recorded significantly higher with the application of RDF+ Azospirillum (500g/ha) followed by RDF+ Poultry manure (5t/ha) over other treatments.