Abstract

Nazir Khan Mohammadi, Mohammad Gul Arabzai, Gautam Ghosh and Zikui Wang*

This study explores the cultivation of baby corn and its evolving role in product diversification and value addition within agricultural systems. Baby corn, a versatile vegetable harvested just before silk emergence, has a nutritional content comparable to that of non-legume vegetables. The research examines the effects of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers, along with various biofertilizer sources, on baby corn yield, yield attributes, quality, soil status, and economic factors. Twelve distinct treatment combinations were applied, featuring three levels of nitrogen (60, 80, and 100 kg ha-1) and two levels of phosphorus (50 and 75 kg ha-1), combined with Azotobacter and Azospirillum biofertilizers. Evaluation criteria included crop yield, plant height, ear length, cob diameter, and financial returns. Results highlight the significant impact of Azospirillum on baby corn production and its associated attributes. The most effective treatment, N3P 2AS (100 kg N and 75 kg P2O5 via Azospirillum), yielded superior green fodder and baby corn. This treatment achieved an exceptional Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) of 2.94, with the highest net return of Rs. 2348.3 USD ha-1. Following closely, the application of 60 kg N and 50 kg P via Azotobacter resulted in a net return of Rs. 962.6 USD ha-1 and a BCR of 1.28. Notably, combining 100 kg N and 75 kg P with Azotobacter produced higher levels of carbohydrates (8.73%), protein (4.66%), total sugars (17.86%), starch (74.10%), ascorbic acid (8.27%), and NPK contents (0.69, 0.16, and 0.92), with the exception of moisture content. Post-harvest soil analysis revealed improved conditions with 100 kg N and 75 kg P, showing higher levels of macro (NPK) and micro (zinc, copper, iron, manganese, and sulfur) nutrients compared to alternative treatments. This underscores the beneficial impact of combined nitrogen-phosphorus and biofertilizer applications on both soil nutrients and baby corn quality. The study emphasizes the importance of employing integrated nutrient management strategies to maximize the profitability and productivity of baby corn. It offers practical insights for farmers seeking to enhance yields and economic returns while advocating for bio-organic fertilization as a sustainable alternative to chemical inputs, positively impacting both baby corn quality and soil nutrient enrichment.