Integrating natural farming for enhanced seed yield, soil health and profitability in onion seed production

Abstract

Aim: The study conducted from 2022–2024 aimed to study the impact of natural farming on the growth, yield, seed quality and economics on onion seed production and, to identify natural treatments that could serve as sustainable alternatives to conventional farming. Methodology: Thirteen treatments involving different cropping systems and natural sprays such as buttermilk and Sounthaster were evaluated, including a conventional control. Plant height, leaf count, umbel diameter, seeds per umbel, 1000-seed weight and disease incidence, severity were among the field metrics that were noted. Seed quality traits, soil parameters were assessed using standard procedures and economic returns were expressed in terms of Benefit: Cost ratio. Results: Maximum plant growth, days to flowering, highest seed yield, minimum days to seed harvest, and lowest disease incidence was recorded in T10- Onion sole crop with 4 sprays of Butter milk. T4 - Onion+Fenugreek with 4 sprays of Butter milk performed statistically at par with T10 and T13. Both T10 and T4 also recorded superior seed quality and higher Benefit: Cost ratio. Interpretation: The results showed that the natural farming, particularly buttermilk-based treatments, improves soil health, plant growth, and seed vigour, resulting in increased yield and quality. Hence, for the production of high-quality onion seeds, treatments T10 and T4 are therefore appropriate and profitable choices. Key words: Buttermilk, Jeevamrit, Natural farming, Onion seed