Effect of Inter-And Intra-Row Spacing on Growth and Yield of Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] at Humera, Northern Ethiopia

Abstract

Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] has a special status in the field of nutrition and health care. In Humera, the major okra production constraints are improper inter-and intra-row spacing, use of local varieties (low yielding), inappropriate planting dates, soil nutrients and insect pests. Field trial was conducted to determine appropriate inter-and intra-row spacing for higher yield of okra under Humera condition, northwestern Ethiopia for three years (2012  to 2014 main cropping seasons). The experimental site is situated at an altitude of 568 m.a.s.l. and the texture of the soil is chromic Vertisol. Factorial combinations of four inter row spacings (30, 45, 60 and 75 cm) and four intra row spacings (15, 20, 25 and 30 cm) were laid out in RCBD replicated three times. Leaf area index at 15 days after emergence, both plant height and number of leaves plant^-1 at 15 and 30 days after emergence, days to pod setting, green pod length, diameter and weight were significantly (p<0.05) affected by the main effects of inter-and intra-row spacing. Similarly, significant interaction effects of inter-and intra-row spacing were recorded for plant height at flowering and last picking, number of leaves plant^-1 at flowering, leaf area index at 30 days after emergence and flowering, number of branches and pods plant^-1, length of pod bearing zone, and green pod yield plant^-1 and ha^-1. The highest green pod yield ha^-1 (24.51t) was obtained from a spacing combination of 45 cm x 25 cm, being not significant from 45 cm x 30 cm spacing. Therefore, it can be concluded that okra could be planted at inter row spacing of 45 cm and intra row spacing of 25-30 cm in Humera area to maximize green pod yield. Since this study was the first of its kind in the country, research concerning all other pre-and post-harvest crop management practices along the variability study (varietal screening) should be undertaken to improve production and productivity of the crop at a national level. It would also be logical to promote the production of the crop to contribute its part in alleviating the malnutrition and poverty for the ever-increasing population.