STUDIES ON BIOFERTILIZERS AND BIOPESTICIDES ON SPINACH PLANT HEALTH AND DISEASE MANAGEMENT UNDER FIELD CONDITIONS
Authors: Vizenuo Khezhie and Dr. Neetu Singh
Vizenuo Khezhie: Amity Institute of Organic Agriculture, Amity University, Noida, India.
Dr. Neetu Singh: Amity Centre for Biocontrol and Plant Disease Management, Amity University, Noida, India.
ABSTRACT
This field-based study evaluates the integrated application of biofertilizers (vermicompost) and biopesticides (Trichoderma harzianum and Pseudomonas fluorescens) on the growth performance and disease resistance of spinach (Spinacia oleracea) in Noida, India. The treatments were arranged in a randomized block design and revealed significant improvements in key agronomic traits such as plant height, leaf area, and yield. Notably, disease incidence, particularly from downy mildew, was reduced by 45–60%. Enhanced microbial activity and nutrient availability were observed in soils treated with vermicompost, underscoring the soil-enriching potential of organic amendments. The findings support the use of bio-inputs as a sustainable agricultural strategy, minimizing chemical dependency, promoting plant vigor, and maintaining ecological balance. Further research is recommended to evaluate scalability across agro-climatic zones and assess long-term impacts on soil and crop health.
Keywords: Biofertilizers, Biopesticides, Spinach, Sustainable Agriculture, Plant Health, Downy Mildew, Vermicompost.