Impact of organic and bio-fertilizers on yield of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

This research investigates the impact of organic and bio-fertilizers on yield of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), with a focus on identifying the best sources of organic manure, evaluating their effects on oil content, and assessing the economic viability of different treatments. The study found that Vermicompost @ 5t + Rhizobium + PSB (T₅) led to the tallest plants (110 cm), the highest number of branches and capsules per plant, and a significant increase in capsule length, seeds per capsule, and seed weight. Similar trends were observed with treatments involving Castor Cake and FYM, confirming the positive influence of organic amendments on sesame growth. The highest seed yield was recorded in the treatment T₅, demonstrating an 88.12% improvement in seed weight per plant. Furthermore, the application of organic manures significantly enhanced the biological yield and harvest index, with the treatment FYM @ 10t + Rhizobium + PSB (T₂) showing the highest harvest index (36%). Economic analyses revealed that treatments with organic inputs yielded substantial gross and net monetary returns, with Vermicompost @ 5t + Rhizobium + PSB (T₅) delivering the highest gross monetary returns of ₹ 85,580.00 ha⁻¹, while Castor Cake @ 2t + Rhizobium + PSB (T₈) produced the highest net monetary returns of ₹ 56,317.00 ha⁻¹. The B:C ratio analysis indicated a favourable return on investment, especially with FYM @ 10t + Rhizobium + PSB (T₂), which achieved a B:C ratio of 3.16. Overall, the study highlights the crucial role of organic manures and bio- fertilizers in promoting sustainable and profitable sesame production.