Paper Details
Full metadata, abstract, citation, and access status.
Enhancing chili (Capsicum annuum L.) growth through the combined effects of earthworms and indigo (Indigofera tinctoria L.) green manuring
Abstract
A pot experiment was conducted from February to October 2023 in a net house at the Soil Science Field Laboratory, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University (HSTU), Dinajpur, Bangladesh, to evaluate the response of earthworms to the application of indigo green manuring (IGM) and the growth and yield response of chili under the combined applications of IGM, earthworms, and cow dung. The experiment was designed using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with nine treatments and four replications. The results showed that IGM significantly enhanced earthworm activity, which, in turn, led to notable improvements in chili plant growth and yield. The highest growth and yield were observed in pots treated with IGM, ¼ cow dung by soil weight, and six earthworms, which also resulted in a significant increase in soil nutrient content. IGM played a crucial role in boosting earthworm activity, promoting improved soil structure and nutrient cycling, which ultimately contributed to better plant health and higher crop productivity. These findings demonstrate the synergistic effects of IGM, earthworms, and cow dung in enhancing both soil fertility and crop performance, suggesting that their combined use can be a sustainable approach to improving chili yield in similar agro-ecosystems.
