Impact of intercropping and bio-enhancers on growth, yield and economic attributes of broccoli

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica L.) is one of the most important cool season vegetables of the Brassicaceae family. Broccoli, a member of the Cole group, originates from the Mediterranean region. This study aimed to examine the effect of different bio-enhancers on a broccoli based intercropping system. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design (FRBD) with three replications comprising fifteen treatment combinations. Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) and fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) were used as intercrop along with panchagavya and ogron at different doses as bio-enhancers. Intercropping of broccoli with fenugreek and foliar spray of Panchagavya @ 3 % showed the best results in growth and yield parameters, including plant height (62.12 cm), plant spread (64.43 cm), stalk length (17.56 cm) and leaf area (804.28 cm²). It also recorded the lowest days to head initiation (48.56 days) and the highest head length (18.51 cm), number of sprouts per plant (8.89) and head yield per hectare (16.81 t). Combination of broccoli + fenugreek intercropping with foliar spray of Panchagavya at 3 % also had a significant effect on economic attributes, recording the highest net return (₹196149.35) and benefit: cost ratio (2.03).