Apical bud manipulation and integrated nutrient management enhance yield and profitability of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) in Northwestern Ethiopia

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) is an important vegetable crop in Ethiopia, yet its productivity remains low due to poor soil fertility and suboptimal agronomic practices. This study assessed how integrating nutrient management with apical bud manipulation influences cabbage growth, yield, and profitability in northwestern Ethiopia. A field experiment was conducted during the 2021/2022 season at two locations in East Gojjam Zone, Ethiopia, using a randomized complete block design in a 3 × 4 factorial arrangement with three bud levels (one, two, and three) and four farmyard manure (FYM) rates (0, 2.5, 5, and 7.5 t ha^{- 1}). Growth, yield, and quality traits were recorded and statistically analyzed. Significant interactions occurred between bud retention and FYM rates for all traits. The two-bud + 5 t ha^{- 1} FYM treatment produced the highest marketable yield (41.8 t ha^{- 1}), total yield (43.1 t ha^{- 1}), and medium head size (31.8 t ha^{- 1}). Total yields at 2.5 and 7.5 t ha^{- 1} FYM were consistently lower across bud levels, with two buds yielding moderately at both rates, whereas one- and three-bud treatments resulted in further reductions reinforcing the superiority of the two-bud + 5 t ha^{- 1} FYM combination. This treatment also generated the highest net return (1917.59 USD ha^{- 1}). Integrating moderate organic nutrient inputs with proper bud management improves cabbage yield and profitability. The application of 5 t ha⁻¹ FYM with two-bud retention is recommended for sustainable cabbage production in northwestern Ethiopia and comparable agro-ecologies.