Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Objectives: This study was conducted to determine the optimum schedule of topping lady’s finger to enhance its growth and yield parameters. Methods/Statistical Analysis: The treatments (20 DAE (Days after emergence), 30 DAE, 40 DAE and without topping (control)) were arranged in RCBD using three replications. Growth parameters, viz., a number of branches and leaf area at maturity and yield parameters, viz., the length and weight of fruits, projected yield per hectare and Marginal Benefit-Cost Ratio (MBCR) were observed. Data were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Least Significant Differences (LSD) using the Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). Findings: Results revealed that topping the lady’s finger at 20 DAE, 30 DAE and 40 DAE did not significantly affect the length of fruits and leaf area of plants, however, topping the lady’s finger at 20 DAE significantly increase the number of branches, the weight of fruits, number of fruits and projected yield. On the basis of economics using the marginal benefit-cost ratio, topping the lady’s finger at 20 DAE gained an 18% benefit while topping beyond this schedule resulted in a loss of 7.5%. Results indicate that the growth and yield decrease when topping is done beyond 20 DAE. The result of the present study is in conformity with the result of previous studies on the effect topping technology to crops, further it determines the optimum schedule of topping lady’s finger to help enhance the production of lady’s finger. Application/Improvement: The optimum schedule for topping crops could help increase the production of crop yield from a limited or from shrinking agricultural land. 

Keywords: Growth, Lady’s Finger (okra), Topping Schedule, Yield Parameters, MBCR