Effect of Organic Fertilizer Vermicompost and Effective Microorganisms (EM) Bokashi on Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) Growth

Local demand for okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is getting higher every year. Thus, the production of okra needs to be increased. A common method to increase crop yield is to use chemical fertilizers, but there are adverse side effects on the environment and humans if used continuously. The use of organic fertilizers is then being expanded. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the effects of vermicompost and effective microorganisms (EM) bokashi on the growth of okra compared to chemical fertilizers. The fertilizers used; (i) vermicompost (15.0g/plant), (ii) EM bokashi (10.0g/plant), (iii) NPK (15:15:15; 5.0g/plant), and (iv) control. The study involved 60 experimental units of okra seedlings up to 10 weeks of planting. The experimental design was CRD, and data was analyzed using SAS software. In the end (10th week), the results showed significant effects on the stem diameter, leaf surface area, canopy, shoot weight, bud number fruit number and weight (P≤0.01). Plants with EM bokashi produced the largest stem diameter and fruit number. Meanwhile, plants with NPK showed the largest leaf number, leaf surface area and canopy. Followed by plants with vermicompost, and the control, showed the lower growth rates. The results indicated significant response of vegetative growth for plants with NPK. Meanwhile, EM bokashi is seen to encourage vegetative and reproductive growth. Accordingly, the used of reduced amount of NPK, along with EM bokashi is recommended to promote more balanced vegetative and reproductive growth, together with the healthier environment. Vermicompost is seen as an added value to improve the structure and quality of soil for planting.